That Music Podcast: Recent Episodes

That Music Teacher, LLC

Each week on That Music Podcast you’ll hear from me, Bryson Tarbet, about what it really means to be a music teacher.

Along the way, you’ll hear from friends and colleagues that are able to bring valuable insights into their specialties and share actionable steps to influence our own classrooms in a positive way.

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In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson dives into how technology can strengthen communication with families while still protecting your time and energy. He shares why visibility matters in the music classroom—not just for concert reminders, but for advocacy, relationship-building, and helping families truly understand the learning happening behind the fun. When used thoughtfully, simple digital tools can create a powerful window into your classroom and build trust before you ever need to have a hard conversation.

But this conversation isn’t just about what to use—it’s about how to use it well. Bryson unpacks the importance of following district policies, communicating in equitable ways, and most importantly, setting clear boundaries so you’re not available around the clock. If you’ve been looking for ways to improve family communication without feeling overwhelmed, this episode will help you think strategically about what’s worth your time and what’s not.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:24 Staying Compliant with District Technology Policies
2:25 Using Social Media Pages & Private Groups Effectively
5:40 Announcements & Schoolwide Communication Tools
6:53 Setting Boundaries Around Parent Communication
8:22 Why Newsletters Still Work (Digital + Print)
9:56 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson tackles a heated debate he witnessed in an elementary music Facebook group: does technology belong in the music classroom? Instead of picking sides, he unpacks the real concerns and challenges teachers to think beyond the noise. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about what someone on the internet says. It’s about what works for you and the students in front of you.

Bryson shares practical examples of how technology can expand creativity, increase accessibility, amplify authentic voices, and even unlock musical potential in students who may not thrive in traditional performance settings. This episode isn’t about going all-in on tech or throwing it out completely; it’s about using it purposefully, strategically, and always as a tool, not the teacher.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:59 Concerns About Using Technology in the Music Classroom
4:51 Tech Challenges: Wi-Fi, Support & Backup Plans
6:39 Screen Time vs. Active Learning: Is Tech Too Passive?
8:33 The Benefits of Technology for Creativity & Accessibility
10:46 Using Technology Purposefully (Not as a Replacement)
13:58 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this vault episode, Bryson goes all the way back to one of the most impactful conversations from early in the podcast and brings it back with a fresh perspective. Teaching songs is something we do constantly as elementary music teachers—but doing it the same way every time can limit engagement, reach, and musical understanding. This episode revisits five effective ways to teach a song and explores how changing your approach can completely transform how students experience repertoire in your classroom.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:22 Teaching by Rote
6:21 Teaching with Motions
7:48 Ask Guided Questions
9:22 Teach with a Game (An Upper Elementary Favorite!)
11:07 Teach Through Storytelling
13:18 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling stuck in the mid-year slump and wondering if technology is just one more thing to manage? In this episode, Bryson is joined by veteran music educator and technology expert Amy Burns to talk about how tech can actually make your life easier in the music classroom, not harder

Together, they unpack common misconceptions about music technology, explore how tech can enhance (not replace) music-making, and share realistic ways to use digital tools even if you don’t have 1:1 devices. From engaging reluctant learners to saving serious time on lesson planning, file conversions, and daily workflows, this conversation is packed with practical ideas you can use right away without overhauling everything you already do. If you’ve ever thought, “I can’t add one more thing,” this episode might just change your mind.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:12 Why now is the right time to add a new tech tool
2:46 Does technology belong in the elementary music classroom? (common misconceptions)
5:17 Making tech work without 1:1 devices (accessibility & equity)
9:55 Favorite go-to tools for music teachers
13:25 Why versatility matters when choosing tech tools
19:34 How technology can actually save you time
25:07 Amy’s Masterclass (what teachers will take away)
27:32 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

We all know that student, the one who shows up to music because they have to, sits with arms crossed, and makes it very clear they’re not impressed. In this episode, Bryson digs into what’s really going on beneath that disengagement and why most “reluctant learners” aren’t trying to be difficult; they just haven’t found their way in yet. You’ll explore five common reluctant learner archetypes and practical ways to connect with each one. This episode will challenge you to look at engagement through a new lens and walk away with small, doable shifts that can help more students feel seen, valued, and genuinely connected to music class.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:48 The Pop-Culture Enthusiast
5:07 The Digital Native
6:40 The Silent Observer
8:26 The Cultural Disconnect
10:23 The Socially Distracted
11:39 Common Questions & Solutions
13:14 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson tackles one of the most anxiety-inducing parts of teaching: calling home or having difficult conversations about student behavior. Specifically through the lens of music teachers, this episode addresses how being a specialist can complicate communication with families, classroom teachers, and administrators, and why avoiding these conversations often makes things worse.

You’ll walk away with the CALM framework: a practical, four-step approach to behavior-related conversations that helps you stay professional, reduce emotional escalation, and keep the focus on student learning. This episode is packed with realistic strategies you can use immediately to support classroom management, protect your well-being, and confidently navigate tough conversations without dread.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:53 The CALM Framework - C
3:09 The CALM Framework - A
4:24 The CALM Framework - L
5:46 The CALM Framework - M
6:21 Helpful tips
7:49 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Two weeks into January, the “new year energy” can already feel like it’s fading. Routines that felt solid in August may suddenly feel clunky or exhausting, and it’s easy to blame student behavior when things start to feel off. In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson invites you to pause and ask an important question: are things actually working?

Instead of adding more to your plate, this episode guides you through a simple mid-year self-evaluation to help you uncover which classroom routines and planning systems are quietly draining your energy. Through reflective prompts and practical insight, Bryson helps you identify small, meaningful shifts that can reduce chaos, increase efficiency, and help you reclaim your focus for teaching music and taking care of yourself.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:50 Question 1
2:12 Question 2
2:28 Question 3
2:43 Question 4
3:00 Routine Audit Takeaways
4:08 Question 5
4:36 Question 6
4:52 Question 7
5:23 Question 8
5:39 Final Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson reframes January as an opportunity, not to overhaul everything, but to reset with intention. Instead of reacting to behaviors or doubling down on consequences, he shares three small but powerful mindset shifts that help you increase engagement, reduce chaos, and set your classroom up for success for the rest of the year.

You’ll hear how simple adjustments can transform the way your classroom feels, without adding more to your plate. If January feels heavy, overwhelming, or just plain exhausting, this episode will help you reset in a way that feels realistic, supportive, and sustainable for you and your students.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:06 Embrace the Power of Pacing
4:29 From Correction to Clarity
6:17 Granting Implicit Permission
8:41 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Bryson wraps up our December recorder series with a topic every music teacher knows all too well: what really happens when recorders go home. Instead of crossing our fingers and bracing for the “my kid won’t stop playing Hot Cross Buns” emails, Bryson shares four practical, teacher-tested strategies to help families feel informed, students feel empowered, and everyone stay sane.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful, purposeful, and joy-filled recorder season (yes, it’s possible!)This episode gives you everything you need to set your students, and their families, up for success.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:29 The Introduction Letter
4:20 Holding Off on Sending It Home
6:06 Setting Clear Home Expectations
8:31 The “You’re the Boss” Strategy
10:33 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

The recorder may not always get the love it deserves, but it remains one of the most powerful tools in the elementary music classroom. In this episode, Bryson breaks down the five most common misconceptions about teaching recorder. He shares practical ways to move past the “mini-band class” mindset, how to differentiate without losing joy, and why focusing on process over performance creates deeper musical growth..

Whether you love teaching recorder or prefer ukulele, barred instruments, or something else entirely, this episode offers a thoughtful reset: a reminder that our instruments, whatever they are, are simply tools for exploration, confidence, and connection.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:18 Myth 1
4:49 Myth 2
7:30 Myth 3
9:43 Myth 4
11:51 Myth 5
12:56 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

If you’ve ever felt nervous, overwhelmed, or downright stressed about teaching recorder, this episode is the breath of fresh air you’ve been waiting for. Bryson sits down with Erin Elliott, who brings a balanced, practical, and joy-filled perspective to an instrument that often gets a pretty bad rap.

Erin shares why recorders so easily spiral into chaos, the hidden reason many teachers dread teaching them, and the surprising story of how she completely rethought her approach after realizing her old system wasn’t serving her students - or herself. Together, she and Bryson dig into what actually works when teaching recorder. This episode is packed with practical takeaways that you can apply this week. Whether you’re recorder-obsessed, recorder-avoidant, or somewhere in between, you’ll walk away feeling encouraged, grounded, and ready to bring more joy (and less noise) into your recorder unit.

Tune in and let this conversation reshape how you think about, and teach, the recorder.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:18 Why Recorder Gets a Bad Rap
3:20 Common Mistakes & Better Approaches
10:02 A Reimagined Recorder Unit
12:14 Classroom Management Strategies
17:00 Connecting & Extending Recorder Lessons
19:41 One Simple Change to Try Today
23:16 About Erin’s Training
24:49 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off your first month of Elementary Music EDGE™ today!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Sub plans aren’t anyone’s favorite part of teaching, but having a system that works every single time can take a huge weight off your shoulders. In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson shares how switching to a simple Google Doc completely changed the way he handles sick days. No fancy software, no overthinking, just one reliable document he can update from anywhere.

He walks through the structure of his digital template, why it’s so helpful to keep everything in one place, and how using a shareable link can save you from scrambling when you’re already not feeling your best. You’ll also hear a few practical tips for choosing activities that any sub can handle and setting yourself up so you’re ready for the unexpected without spending hours prepping.

If you’ve ever found yourself stressed about taking a day off (or avoiding it altogether), this episode gives you an easy, doable way to make sub plans one less thing to worry about.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
3:35 Getting started with digital sub plans
5:51 Template walkthrough
7:50 Tips for making it work
9:35 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Ever hesitate to take a sick day because it’ll mess up your lesson rotation? You’re not alone, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

In this episode, Bryson shares a simple but powerful strategy to keep your curriculum on track no matter what life throws your way: the lesson numbering system. You’ll learn how to shift from date-based planning to sequence-based lessons, giving you more flexibility, consistency, and peace of mind.

Bryson walks through how to organize lessons by number, track class progress, and make room for differentiation, so every student stays on their own path, and you can finally rest without guilt.

It’s time to let go of the pressure to “keep up” and embrace a planning method that supports you and your students.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:46 The Problem with Date-Based Lesson Plans
3:05 How the Lesson Numbering System Works
7:45 Benefits of Numbering Your Lessons
9:59 How to Start Using the System
11:18 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Let’s be real, teachers are pros at pushing through when they shouldn’t. Between planning sub lessons, worrying about routines, and feeling guilty for being gone, it’s easy to convince ourselves that resting isn’t worth the hassle.

In this episode, Bryson shares a heartfelt reminder that taking a sick day is not a sign of weakness; it’s an act of self-care that ultimately helps you show up as your best self for your students. He opens up about his own experience balancing teaching with foster parenting, and offers practical strategies for making time off less stressful, from setting up a “sub tub” to creating digital plans that make stepping away easier.

If you’ve ever felt guilty for taking a day to rest, this one’s for you. Because your classroom will survive, and you deserve to take care of yourself, too.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:57 Bryson’s experience
4:54 Tips for stress-free sick days
8:13 School policies & requirements
10:42 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us athello@thatmusicteacher.com- we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Creating sub plans doesn’t have to be stressful. In this episode, Bryson is joined by Rainy Barton to talk about simplifying the process and setting yourself (and your students) up for success. From planned absences to unexpected emergencies, they chat about strategies for making sub plans that are practical, engaging, and easy for anyone to follow, even non-music subs. Rainy also shares a sneak peek of her upcoming masterclass, Sub Smarter, Not Harder, and why building a solid sub plan system can be a total game-changer.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:20 Biggest challenges music teachers face prepping for subs
3:15 Why quality lesson plans matter more than just busy work
5:38 One simple step to make sub planning less overwhelming today
7:26 Making plans easy for non-music substitutes
9:29 Navigating administrator requests for simple, tech-free plans
13:19 How to have your sub plans ready to go at all times
16:54 Key advice to set subs and students up for success
19:24 Rainy’s upcoming masterclass preview
22:14 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson shares his five favorite extension activities that can be used with just about any concept in the elementary music room. From rhythm to melody (and everything in between), these activities are student-approved, easy to adapt, and built for long-term use. Whether you’re looking to streamline your planning, increase engagement, or bring a little more magic to your classroom routines, this episode is packed with practical ideas you’ll come back to again and again.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:46 Post Office
3:35 King of the Mountain
5:18 Remote Control
6:26 Texting Sticks
7:46 Poison
8:53 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson dives into one of his favorite rhythmic concepts to teach, tika-tika (four sixteenth notes), and shares five of his go-to songs for making this rhythm come alive in the elementary music room. With an eye toward thoughtful repertoire choices, he explores how to move beyond outdated or problematic songs and still bring the fun with engaging, student-approved activities. From play parties to original compositions, Bryson highlights ways to keep tika-tika practice meaningful, musical, and inclusive.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:41 Introducing TikaTika
4:03 Paw Paw Patch
5:48 Flying with a Bee
7:40 Fire in the Mountain
8:31 Tide-y-O
9:16 Old Brass Wagon
9:54 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™
Join the Repertoire Detective Challenge

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Bryson introduces a fresh way of thinking about your curriculum by flipping the script: instead of hunting down songs to teach concepts, what if your repertoire guided the concepts you teach? He breaks down his Repertoire-Based Curriculum Framework: a practical, cyclical approach to choosing, organizing, and using high-quality music that’s both authentic and pedagogically powerful. Plus, Bryson shares how you can get hands-on with this approach in the free Repertoire Detective Challenge. If lesson planning ever feels like a hamster wheel, this episode might just be your off-ramp.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:33 Why repertoire matters in music education
3:47 The 5 key points of the Repertoire-Based Curriculum Framework
9:10 Why this framework is essential for effective teaching
10:30 The Repertoire Detective Challenge
11:38 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™
Join the Repertoire Detective Challenge

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this milestone episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson celebrates 200 episodes by digging into one of the most essential building blocks of elementary music: steady beat. He shares his top five favorite songs and chants that make steady beat practice fun and meaningful, along with how he uses them in the classroom to get kids moving, feeling the beat, and engaged. Whether you’re new to teaching steady beat or looking for fresh ideas to deepen your students’ rhythmic foundation, Bryson’s got you covered, plus you can grab his free Steady Beat Survival Guide, packed with songs and activities to help you bring steady beat to life.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:15 Apple Tree
3:50 Bee Bee Bumble Bee
4:49 Engine Engine Number 9
6:33 Cobbler Cobbler
7:46 Queen Queen Caroline
8:47 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Bryson sits down with Carrie Nicholas and Tanya LeJeune from Music Teacher Coffee Talk to explore the magic of double duty songs, those special tunes that can support teaching multiple musical concepts over time. They talk about why these songs are such a lifesaver when time is tight and share thoughtful tips on keeping your students excited and engaged with music they already know. Plus, Carrie and Tanya give us a sneak peek at their upcoming masterclass inside Elementary Music Edge™, packed with fresh ideas to inspire your teaching.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:09 What is a “Double Duty” Song?
3:09 Benefits of using double-duty songs
7:37 Common misconceptions about double-duty songs
11:46 Favorite double-duty songs
25:16 Masterclass preview
27:19 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson dives into a challenging topic many music teachers face: those familiar songs that might actually have a questionable past. He explores why it’s important to reconsider what we include in our classrooms and offers thoughtful ways to identify and replace songs that don’t align with creating safe, inclusive spaces for all students. If you’ve ever wondered how to handle the songs you’ve “always used,” this episode provides practical insight and encouragement to take those next steps thoughtfully.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:59 Why every student deserves a safe and inclusive classroom
2:26 Songs with a Questionable Past
6:38 Respectful replacement song ideas
9:39 How to check songs for cultural sensitivity and suitability
11:35 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™
Songs with a Questionable Past Document

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson tackles a tough but essential topic: how to include music and cultural activities that aren’t from our own backgrounds in a way that’s authentic and respectful. He shares practical advice on research, avoiding stereotypes, and when—and how—to adapt materials for the classroom. If you’ve ever wondered how to bring diverse music into your teaching without missteps, this episode offers thoughtful guidance and encouragement to get started thoughtfully.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:47 What does authentic inclusion look like?
5:18 Why authentic representation benefits students and communities
9:05 Understanding Adaptation vs. Appropriation
11:13 Navigating mistakes and learning moments
12:05 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson sits down with Melissa Fuller Flores to chat about celebrating Filipino American History Month in the elementary music classroom. Melissa opens up about her personal ties to the Filipino community and how music plays such a special role in Filipino culture. Together, they dive into fun, hands-on ideas you can bring to your classroom, think clapping games, folk songs, and partner-picking activities, all while keeping cultural respect front and center. Melissa also gives a sneak peek of her upcoming masterclass inside Elementary Music EDGE™, featuring Filipino folk dances and a timeline of important Filipino American musicians. This episode is all about making your classroom more inclusive and showing how music can be a powerful tool for connection and understanding.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
8:26 Celebrating cultural months with intention
16:16 Hands-on ideas for Filipino-American History Month
29:22 What to expect in Melissa’s upcoming masterclass
34:22 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Melissa's Resources
The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Learning student names isn’t just a classroom management strategy; it’s a powerful way to build trust, connection, and community from day one. In this episode, Bryson shares five practical, low-stress ways to confidently learn student names, even when teaching hundreds of kids each week. It’s all about starting strong and showing students they matter, one name at a time.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:34 Seating Chart with Pictures
4:16 Name Tags
5:58 Name Games
7:58 Direct Name-Learning Activities
9:00 Use their name whenever possible
9:55 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™
Download Idoceo

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Season 7 kicks off with a fresh invitation to pause, reflect, and set meaningful intentions for the school year ahead. In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson shares six thoughtful reflection prompts designed to help music teachers process last year’s highs and lows, from student breakthroughs to classroom challenges and personal wellbeing.

Listeners will walk away with actionable ways to build on their successes, learn from missteps, and bring more joy and intention into their teaching. Whether tuning in during a commute or a planning break, this episode offers a grounded, encouraging start to a new season of teaching.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:02 A student moment that stuck with you (and why)
3:09 Reflecting on a teaching challenge and what it taught you
4:06 Where your students grew, and how you helped
4:25 What gave you energy last year? What drained you?
5:54 Non-teaching routines that helped you feel renewed
6:46 Your one word or phrase for the school year
7:34 Why this kind of reflection matters
8:30 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

The Elementary Music Summit®
Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join Elementary Music EDGE™

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this season finale of That Music Podcast, Bryson reflects on the journey of the show from its early days to now, sharing his excitement for what’s ahead in Season 7. He highlights how the podcast has grown alongside his transition out of the classroom and how the addition of YouTube has opened new ways to connect. Bryson thanks listeners for their support and feedback this season, inviting the community to share ideas, guest suggestions, and topics they want explored in the upcoming season. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to the show, this episode offers a heartfelt wrap-up and a look forward to continuing the conversation about transforming elementary music education.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:21 Reflecting on the Podcast’s Growth and Impact

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community
The Elementary Music Summit®

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The Elementary Music Summit® is back for its fourth summer, offering five days of content-specific professional development tailored for elementary music teachers. Bryson shares all the exciting details about this year’s event, happening July 7–11, including 28 expert speakers, live sessions with 24-hour replay access, and new features. Whether you attend for free or upgrade to the All Access Pass, the Summit provides practical, accessible ideas to help you create engaging, joyful, and balanced music classrooms. Tune in to discover why this Summit is Bryson’s favorite event of the year and how it can support your growth as an elementary music educator.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:51 What to Expect This Year
3:32 How the Summit Grew — And Why It Matters to You

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community
The Elementary Music Summit®

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Not all PD is created equal—and if you’ve ever sat through a session on a math curriculum you don’t teach, you already know that. In this episode, Bryson breaks down why content-specific professional development is a must for music teachers and how to start advocating for it in your district. He shares three key reasons why general PD often misses the mark for music educators and offers actionable steps for finding, requesting, and justifying music-focused learning—especially with the support of national organizations and case studies. Whether you're tired of irrelevant sessions or looking for ways to stay current and inspired, this episode will help you build the case for PD that actually speaks your language.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
3:01 3 Concrete Reasons Why Content-Specific PD Matters
6:04 How to Advocate Effectively
7:52 Where to Start Taking Action
9:10 Breaking Out of “Music Teacher Island”
11:22 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community
The Elementary Music Summit®

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson sits down with David Bedard—educator, preschool teacher, and longtime advocate for inclusive music education. You may remember David from his energetic presentation at the Elementary Music Summit, and in today’s conversation, he brings that same heart and insight to a discussion centered on accessibility in the music classroom.

Together, David and Bryson explore the barriers students face in traditional music education, the importance of student agency, and how educators can begin to shift their mindset toward more inclusive, empowering practices. David shares how his work at Daniel’s Music Foundation and as a preschool teacher continually reinforces the transformative power of music, no matter a person’s age or ability.

You’ll leave this episode inspired and equipped with new perspectives to serve all learners in your classroom better.

This conversation is just the beginning! David will be leading a masterclass inside That Music Teacher Community, where he’ll go even deeper into strategies for accessible and inclusive music teaching.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
5:08 The Biggest Barriers Students Face in Traditional Music Education
9:32 What Sparked David’s Passion for Accessibility in the Music Classroom
13:19 Small Shifts, Big Impact: Creating a More Inclusive Environment
18:26 Practical Ways to Adapt Music Activities for Students with Disabilities
23:18 Debunking Common Myths About Accessibility in Music Education
27:56 A Sneak Peek at David’s Masterclass for That Music Teacher Community
31:39 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson dives into the exciting yet sometimes nerve-wracking process of preparing for a music teacher interview. Whether you're fresh out of college or exploring new opportunities, Bryson has tons of advice to help you stand out and land that dream job. With insights from his own experience and tips from serving on hiring committees, this episode is packed with useful ideas to help you feel more confident and prepared. Whether you're wondering how to present your teaching style or what key questions to ask, Bryson’s got you covered!

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:29 Bryson’s Experience with Interviews & Hiring Committees
3:42 What to Know Before the Interview
5:15 What to Expect During the Interview
6:13 Bonus Tip for First-Time Interviewees
6:52 Questions To Ask The Interviewer
7:41 How a Teaching Portfolio Can Leave a Lasting Impression
9:44 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson dives into a question that many educators face: When is the right time to tell your principal that you're job-searching? Whether you're looking for a new position, interviewing, or planning to leave, this conversation is packed with insights on handling these delicate situations.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:42 Bryson’s Personal Insights & Experiences
5:08 Asking for a Reference
7:00 Next Steps: How to Handle the Transition Smoothly
9:42 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Packing up your classroom? Whether you’re switching schools, transitioning into retirement, or just heading to a new room down the hall, this episode is packed with practical tips to help make the move a little less overwhelming. Bryson walks you through how to label what’s yours vs. what belongs to the school, strategies for organizing your materials, and how to pack in a way that sets you up for success in your new space. From labeling tricks to storage container suggestions, this episode is your go-to guide for a smoother classroom move—no matter what’s next.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:20 Label What’s Yours (and What’s Not)
2:30 What to Ditch, What to Keep, and How to Label It
6:55 Have a Game Plan for Your New Space
7:49 Communicating Between Schools or Admins
8:39 Stick to the System That Works for You
9:35 Preparing for the Emotional Side of the Move
11:41 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling the end-of-year burnout creeping in? In this episode, BethAnn Hepburn joins Bryson to share simple, creative ways to keep your music classroom feeling joyful and energized—especially when testing is over and attention spans are short.

BethAnn shares how movement, outdoor learning, and playful music-making can help match students’ energy and keep things fun all the way through the last week of school. From singing games to drum circles, her ideas are practical, adaptable, and rooted in her rich background in Orff and general music education.

If you’re looking for a little inspiration (and permission to keep it light), this conversation is full of reminders that music can still be meaningful—even in May.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
4:29 Beating the May Slump with Movement
10:21 Navigating End-of-Year Challenges
15:51 Using Movement as a Teaching Tool
28:07 Sneak Peek: BethAnn’s Upcoming Masterclass
32:55 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Movement in the music room doesn't have to be chaotic, and it definitely shouldn't start with a complex folk dance if your students have never done movement before! In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson breaks down a more intentional and developmentally appropriate approach to introducing movement in your classroom.

You'll learn how to scaffold movement experiences so that your students can grow in confidence and coordination over time. From unstructured exploration to guided movement and finally structured activities, Bryson shares practical strategies to help students feel successful every step of the way. Whether you're new to using movement or just looking for a smoother process, this episode will help you set your students up for success, without the chaos.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:04 The 3 Steps Toward Structure
8:23 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wonder if that movement activity you’re planning is the right fit for your students? In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson dives into what it really means for a movement song to be “appropriate.” Tune in for real talk about making thoughtful repertoire choices that support your students, avoid chaos, and create meaningful musical experiences. Whether you’re rocking a parachute or breaking out the scarves, this one’s packed with things to keep in mind as you plan your next movement moment!

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:06 Choosing Developmentally Appropriate Songs
3:52 Vocal Considerations
4:44 Keeping Kids Safe While They Learn
7:35 Being Culturally Respectful in Song Choices
8:49 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

Ever felt hesitant to bring movement props into your music room? You’re not alone. In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson opens up about his journey from movement prop skeptic to full-on scarf enthusiast. Bryson explores the sensory, motor, and musical benefits of incorporating props, how they can help students feel more confident, and why movement can deepen your students’ understanding of musical concepts like tempo and dynamics. From stretchy bands and parachutes to those magical scarves everyone raves about, we’re diving into why these tools are more than just classroom extras—they're powerful teaching aids.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
5:08 Using Movement Props to Reinforce Musical Concepts
8:05 Movement Props Beyond Scarves
9:29 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

We’re bringing back a fan-favorite episode that’s more relevant than ever! Movement is a game-changer in the music classroom, helping students develop motor skills, deepen musical understanding, and stay engaged. In this episode, Bryson dives into why movement is essential—especially for younger learners—and how you can make it a natural part of your teaching.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1: 44 The Role of Movement in Early Childhood Development
3:58 How To Use Creative Movement For Musical Learning
7:55 How To Make Movement More Fun
10:37 The Power of Storytelling In Movement
12:19 Making Movement Inclusive
13:42 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson sits down with Leanna O’Brien to dive into the power of movement in the music classroom. Leanna shares her journey from a struggling first-year teacher to discovering how meaningful movement can transform student learning. They chat about why movement is essential, how to make it work with older students, and practical ways to bring musical concepts to life through physical engagement. Plus, Leanna gives a sneak peek into her upcoming masterclass inside That Music Teacher Community, where she’ll share even more ideas on using movement to boost learning, reduce stress, and improve classroom management. Whether you're brand new to teaching or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips to help you bring more movement into your music classroom!

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
7:29 Why Movement Matters
13:25 Overcoming Resistance
19:57 The Key to Successful Movement Activities
25:31 Practical Strategies
31:55 Teaching Musical Concepts Through Movement
36:06 Leanna's Master Class
38:24 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community
Connect with Leanna

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

What if you could teach without saying a word? In today’s episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson Tarbet explores the surprisingly effective technique of a "silent rehearsal" and how it can transform your classroom dynamics. From preserving your vocal health to resetting student focus, Bryson shares how this quiet method can encourage mindfulness, engagement, and creativity in your students.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:06 What a Silent Rehearsal Looks Like
4:55 Breaking The Pattern
6:27 Key Considerations for Silent Rehearsals
8:17 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson dives further into vocal health and shares practical strategies for getting your students' attention without straining your voice. Whether you're tired of shouting over the noise or simply looking for ways to improve classroom management, Bryson covers several non-verbal tricks that will help you maintain control while protecting your vocal folds. Bryson’s tips offer fun, engaging alternatives for bringing the class back into focus. Plus, get insight on when and how to use these attention-getting techniques for different age groups and classroom settings. Tune in for creative ways to keep your students engaged without raising your voice!

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
1:53 A Fun Twist on an Old Classic
3:21 Fricative Sounds
4:22 The Stir Xylophone
5:15 Slowing Down the Energy
6:35 Visual Signals
7:10 Rest Positions
8:07 Lights Off, Attention On
8:48 When to Use Your Voice
10:25 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of That Music Podcast, we're talking all about microphones for the elementary music classroom. Vocal health is crucial for music teachers, and using a mic can help you protect your voice while keeping your students engaged. Bryson walks through his favorite picks, the pros and cons of each, and why embracing your “inner pop star” might just be the vocal health hack you need!

If you're listening to this episode, you may want to check out the video version on YouTube! Seeing the microphones Bryson discusses might make it easier to follow along. Click here to watch now!

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
3:25 Finding the Right Classroom Mic Setup
5:50 A Teacher Mic with Popstar Vibes
7:31 Alvoxcon Wireless Lapel Microphone
10:54 Budget-Friendly Mics & Admin Support
11:42 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community
Alvoxcon Wireless Lapel Microphone

*Note: The link for the microphone is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through it—at no extra cost to you! Thanks for supporting the podcast!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

None

Send us Fan Mail

As music teachers, we use our voices constantly—but are we taking care of them the way we should? In this episode of That Music Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Whitehead, a vocal health expert and professor at Ohio Wesleyan University, to talk about how teachers can protect their voices, avoid vocal fatigue, and develop habits that support long-term vocal wellness.

We discuss everything from warmups and cool-downs to the hidden impact of stress and classroom acoustics. Plus, Dr. Whitehead shares practical tips for navigating high vocal loads, managing vocal strain when you’re sick, and knowing when it’s time to seek professional help.

Whether you’re a trained vocalist or an instrumentalist who “fell into” teaching general music, this episode is packed with insights to help you keep your most important teaching tool—your voice—strong and healthy for years to come.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:23 Why Vocal Health Matters for Teachers
9:24 Understanding Vocal Fatigue and Strain
14:45 Daily Habits for a Healthier Voice
20:58 Hydration, Diet, and Your Voice
25:46 What to Do When You’re Sick
28:09 The Role of Stress in Vocal Health
38:58 When to Seek Professional Help
44:42 Final Tips for Protecting Your Voice
49:46 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community
Alvoxcon Wireless Lapel Microphone

*Note: The link for the microphone is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through it—at no extra cost to you! Thanks for supporting the podcast!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hel

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

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Send us Fan Mail

Ever feel like your piano skills (or lack thereof) are holding you back as a music teacher? You’re not alone! In this episode of That Music Podcast, Bryson gets real about his struggles with piano—including failing class piano twice—and shares the strategies that helped him thrive in the classroom despite not being a pianist.

From choral rehearsals to accompanying students, Bryson breaks down practical tips for making music without being glued to the keyboard. Whether it’s simplifying accompaniments, using your voice as your strongest tool, or selecting music that works for you, this episode is packed with insights to help you feel more confident leading your students.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
3:39 Embracing Your Strengths in Choir Directing
7:52 Building on Existing Musical Foundations
8:48 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Send us Fan Mail

When it comes to teaching choir, should we focus on rote learning or reading notation? The answer might be a little bit of both! In this episode, Bryson unpacks the benefits and challenges of teaching by rote and by note in a choral setting. Drawing from his own experience launching a sixth-grade choir, he shares practical strategies for meeting students where they are, building musical literacy, and keeping the joy of music-making at the center. Whether you're working with young singers or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with ideas to help you strike the right balance in your choir rehearsals.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction
2:17 Blending General Music and Choir
7:53 The Balance of Rote and Note
9:31 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at hello@thatmusicteacher.com - we’d love to hear from you!

Get ready to dive into another exciting episode of That Music Podcast. This week, we're delving into the magic of using storytelling to enhance transitions in your music lessons.

Stories have a unique power to captivate, engage, and cement memories, making them a fantastic tool for educators. Whether you're teaching kindergarteners or sixth graders, Bryson's got the strategies to make your lessons come alive through storytelling. He shares practical insights and tips to seamlessly weave stories into your teaching, keeping your students engaged and your classroom management a breeze.

If you haven't already, check out Episode 47 for Bryson's insights on seamless transitions!

Episode Chapters:

1:25 Why Story Is Important
2:45 How To Apply Story To Your Transitions
8:40 Takeaways

Links and Resources:

Elementary Newbie Guide
Disabilities Guide
Steady Beat Survival Guide
Join That Music Teacher Community

Melissa Stouffer is a music teacher in Michigan. She has taught infants through middle school general music, elementary and middle school choir as well as a middle school band program which she founded while teaching on a cart. She has a BS in Psychology and BME in Music Education from Central Michigan University and is Kodály Level Three certified. She serves as the past-president and secretary/treasurer of the Michigan Kodály Educators, the MMC Planning Committee representative for the Michigan Music Educators Association, the MMEA Professional Development Co-chair, and the sits on the APR committee for OAKE . She is a frequent presenter and the creator and author of www.mrsstouffersmusicroom.com.

Links and Resources:

Connect with Melissa on Instagram
Download the free Elementary Newbie Guide

This week's episode of That Music Podcast is definitely one that comes from the heart. In this episode I'll be sharing some tips that you can use to help you feel grounded and not so alone on music teacher island.

Links and Resources:

Download the free Elementary Newbie Guide

Aileen Miracle teaches general music and choir in the Olentangy Local School District in Ohio; this will be her twenty-fourth year of teaching. She received her Bachelor of Music Education from Central Michigan University in 1999, and her Master of Music in Music Education with a Kodály emphasis from Capital University in 2003; over the past fifteen years, she has held leadership roles in local, regional, and national music education organizations.

In 2016, Aileen was awarded “Teacher of the Year” at Cheshire Elementary. She has taught Methodology and Folk Song Research for the Kodály Programs at Colorado State University, Capital University, and DePaul University. She enjoys blogging at www.mrsmiraclesmusicroom.com, has a podcast called “The Music Room,” and presents workshops across the nation and around the world. Her family includes her husband Scott, a singer/songwriter, her 18-year-old daughter Jenna, who plays flute and ukulele and is majoring in education at Ohio University, and her 9-year-old daughter Macy, who is taking Irish dancing lessons and is obsessed with “Carnival of the Animals”!

Links and Resources:

Download the free Elementary Newbie Guide
Aileen's Body Percussion Cards

Without a strong foundational understanding of steady beat, our students will struggle with nearly every rhythmic concept we throw at them.

In this week's episode of That Music Podcast I share my absolute favorite ways to teach steady beat in my classroom.

Links & Resources:

Download your free copy of the Steady Beat Survival Guide

This week's episode of That Music Podcast hits close to home.

I chat with Jen Rafferty about burnout and what we as teachers can do to find some sort of balance as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of teaching.

Links and Resources:

Download the free Elementary Newbie Guide
Empowered Educator Resources
Empowered Educator Faculty Lounge

This week's episode of That Music Podcast is NOT one to miss! I chat with Rachel Ammons about the common myths and helpful strategies for dyslexic students in the music classroom. Rachel Ammons is going into her fourth year as a music educator.

She works at a 2-12 independent school in Central Ohio that services students with ADHD, dyslexia, and executive dysfunction. She has a passion for adapting music lessons to be accessible to her students, and wants to help other teachers learn the truth about ADHD and dyslexia.

When she isn’t at school, she loves reading, writing, crocheting, and spending time with her husband and one-year-old son.

Follow Rachel on Instagram

In this week's episode of That Music Podcast I dive into what it means to 'retrieve' a folk song and how a folk song collection can simplify your lesson planning.

On this week's episode of That Music Podcast I dive into the reasons in which a Kodály-influenced music classroom can still have a place in the modern music classroom.

If you've been on the fence about this "Kodály stuff," or if you've already decided it isn't for you, I invite you to listen to this week's episode to get my perspective of Kodály-influenced teaching in the modern elementary music classroom.

In this episode of That Music Podcast we talk about the importance of having a mentor, even if you're months away from retirement.

In this episode of That Music Podcast I chat with Erin Ross from My Music Staff about how you private music instructors can streamline and automate their procedures so they can focus on the important stuff: teaching music.

Claim your extended 60-day trial here.

This episode is dedicated to the educators of the Columbus Education Association.

In the season 4 premiere of the Elementary Music Podcast we'll talk about how we can take the past few years of teaching during COVID and use what we've learned to impact our classrooms in a positive way.

You are not going to want to miss this free online summit made specifically for elementary music teachers.

Grab your free ticket -> www.thatmusicteacher.com/summit
Musically Minted -> www.musicallyminted.com
My Music Staff -> www.mymusicstaff.com

A few years back, Lauren Marcinkowski introduced me to the concept of Universal Design for Learning and I was HOOKED.

Since then, I’ve done a decent amount of research into UDL as part of my graduate research for my Master’s degree and I’ve been able to see incredibly positive results in my classroom since looking at things through the lens of Universal Design.

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast we’re going to talk about what UDL is, what it's NOT, and how it can benefit each and every one of the students in your classroom.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of my guide on better serving the students with disabilities in your classroom!

Student teaching is one of the hardest things you will ever have to do. On top of teaching full-time and being a full-time student, you are also likely trying to line up your first teaching job for the next year!

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast, I talk about some of the best ways to ensure that you are set up for success while student teaching and in your job search!

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of my guide on better serving the students with disabilities in your classroom!

Some students are naturally a bit stand-off to music. Some can be outright defiant at times. But all students deserve a high-quality music education.

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast, I dive into how to win over students that might need a little extra persuading so that everyone can be successful in your music classroom.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of my guide on better serving the students with disabilities in your classroom!

One of the best decisions I’ve made in my career has been starting my Kodály levels after my first year of teaching.

I knew that I eventually wanted to do my levels training, but I didn’t quite realize how important this training would become to the day-to-day reality of my classroom.

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast, I talk about what Kodály levels are, why they matter, and how they’ve changed my teaching in an incredible way!

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of my guide on better serving the students with disabilities in your classroom!

My first day in a PreK classroom I felt completely out of my element. But I quickly realized preschool was one of my favorite ages to teach!

This week’s episode of That Music Podcast is for those of you who felt like me and are trying to figure out where to start when it comes to PreK music!

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of my guide on better serving the students with disabilities in your classroom!

Music happens in so many ways both inside and outside of our music classrooms.

This week’s episode of That Music Podcast is all about the intersections between the music education that happens in our classrooms and that that occurs in a private lesson setting.

Links and Resources:

Check out That Music Teacher Store

Student teaching is an incredible time where you can start to truly find yourself as a teacher. But unfortunately it’s also one of the most difficult things a pre-service teacher can do.

This week’s episode of That Music Podcast is for the student teachers, and those who are near student teaching. I share the tips that I wish I would’ve known before student teaching so that I could’ve navigated a lot of the pitfalls that came with student teaching.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

If you’re tired of feeling like you’re reinventing the wheel every time you sit down to lesson plan, this episode is for YOU!

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast I talk about curriculum mapping and how investing some time to do it can actually help you save time.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

This year I was able to put on a Kindergarten performance for the first time in my career. I decided to turn it into an informance & curriculum night to show parents and grownups what actually goes on in the music classroom.

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast I share why I decided to take this approach to the performance, why I think it was incredibly successful, and how you can throw your very own curriculum night and informance.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

This week’s episode is all about choir at the elementary level. You are not going to want to miss this fantastic interview with Emma Bassett.

Emma Bassett was born and raised in Wisconsin, but got to Texas as fast as she could! After graduating from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point with degrees in Music and Psychology, she moved to Texas, where she fell in love with the great state, and its dedication to Fine Arts Education and decided to stay.

While growing up in Milwaukee she found her love of music through Piano lessons. She is also a proud 10 year alum of the Milwaukee Children's Choir.

Since beginning her career, Mrs. Bassett has taught all levels and genres of Music in grades K-8 including Choir, Band, Orchestra, and General Music. She is absolutely thrilled to be the Music Specialist at Pomona Elementary where she also directs the award winning Pomona Pirate Choir, who are honored to be an invited performing group for the 2022 Texas Music Educators Association Convention.

You’ll often find her wearing her tutu and sparkly shoes, while singing and dancing down the halls of Pomona.

When she is not at school, she enjoys spending time with her husband, and their two young children.

Links and Resources:

Learn more about General Music Jumpstart
Join the Elementary Choir Directors FB Group

There is so much that we don't learn about student teaching until we are in the thick of it.

Now that I'm a few years out of student teaching, I've been doing a lot of thinking about what I wish I would've known about student teaching.

This week's episode of That Music Podcast is all about just that: the things I wish I would've known about student teaching before I was in the middle of that wild balancing act we call student teaching.

Links & Resources:

Three Secrets for Success in the Elementary Music Classroom (FREE Workshop)

So many of us have an increasing population of English Learners in our classrooms.

Especially for those of us, me included, who are not bilingual, this can be an incredibly difficult population of students to serve.

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast I bring in a wonderful expert, Betha Maust, and ask her to share her knowledge of English Learners, and what that means for us as music educators.

Betha Maust is an English Language teacher located near Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Goshen College in Indiana with a degree in elementary education, and ended up teaching adult ESL classes in Sioux Falls, South Dakota for two years.

After returning home, she got her TESOL endorsement from Capital University. She has taught k-12 EL for 8 Years, and currently teaches k-4. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, baking, and traveling as much as possible.

Links and Resources:

Check out That Music Teacher Store!
Colorín Colorado

I often get questions about how a Kodály-influenced classroom can also be one that asks questions to allow us to be anti-racist and anti-biased.

Today’s episode of That Music Podcast is all about refocusing the Kodály classroom to ensure that the repertoire we choose to perpetuate is one worth teaching, while also making sure all of our students feel seen and included in our classrooms.

Audrey Rice currently teaches 4th and 5th grade general music at Winchester Trail Elementary School in Canal Winchester, OH. She also co-directs the Winchester Trail 5th grade choir with her co-worker and fellow music teacher, Bobby Phillips.

Audrey also co-facilitates a research-based girls empowerment program called ROX at Winchester Trail and is the Secretary of the Canal Winchester Education Association.

Audrey holds a BME from The Ohio State University. She has previously taught grades 1-5 general music and grades 6-8 choir, as well as private flute, voice, piano, and ukulele. She has also previously taught with the Kodaly-based early childhood music program "We Joy Sing".

She is currently pursuing a Master of Music in Music Education with a Kodaly emphasis from Capital University and is an active member of the Tri-City Kodaly Educators (TRIKE).

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of my guide on better serving the students with disabilities in your classroom!
Decolonizing the Music Room
Songs with a Questionable Past

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast, I get a little bit personal. I share my thoughts and reflections on this past year.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

Assessment doesn’t need to be scary. Data and assessment are truly invaluable in the elementary music classroom.

In this week’s episode of That Music Podcast, I share my thoughts on assessment, and how we can use nearly constant informal assessment to truly guide and drive our instruction.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

Whether we like it or not, we must advocate for ourselves and our programs.

On this week’s episode of That Music Podcast, I share a conversation I had with Sarah OIiver about advocating for ourselves and our students.

Sarah Oliver lives in Xenia, Ohio with her husband Kevin, her three beagles, and two bengal cats. She is a music educator on a mission of sharing her passion and knowledge of music to anyone who will listen.

Sarah holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Southern Illinois University and a Masters of Music Education from Wright State University.

Sarah has been teaching general music for the past 6 years, most recently at Mother Teresa Catholic Elementary School in Liberty Township, Ohio.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide
Music with Mrs. Oliver
Music and Mayhem Podcast
Follow Sarah on Facebook

I had a mindset shift a year or so ago about teaching Solfege, and it was an absolute gamechanger in my classroom.

On this week’s episode of That Music Podcast, I share that mindset shift and talk about how we as music educators can really think about the why of what we teach in a more meaningful way.

Links and Resources:

Check out That Music Teacher Store!

Vocal health is important for all teachers, but we as music teachers have an added struggle if we don’t take care of our voices.

Even those of us who went through undergrad as vocal majors often lack the knowledge of how to truly use our voices in a safe and sustainable way.

Today’s guest on the podcast is Dr. Jennifer Whitehead. Dr. Whitehead was one of my professors in undergrad, and she is just amazing. I cannot wait for you to hear this conversation!

Dr. Jennifer Whitehead is an associate professor of voice at Ohio Wesleyan University, where she teaches voice and voice-related courses as well as directing music department staged productions.

Whitehead is a Columbus, Ohio native and a 2013 graduate of The Ohio State University with a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Voice and Singing Health.

She has appeared in both staged and concert works in central Ohio and has also been extensively involved with the Opera / Columbus education and outreach programs.

Dr. Whitehead is a frequent lecturer on vocal health and practice strategies for singers. She resides in Westerville, Ohio with her husband and daughter.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

On the podcast today we have our first international guest! I am so excited for you to hear this conversation with Hendrik Marais about music education and character development, as well as his experience hosting the 2021 Creative Arts Conference in Cape Town, South Africa.

Hendrik Marais was appointed as Head of Music and Specialist Subjects at RGJS in January 2005. He served as President of the South African Choral Society from 2009 - 2014 and got appointed as Executive Board member of the International Federation of Choral Music in 2016.

In the same year, Marais was selected by the British Council to visit the UK as part of the Connecting Classroom Program, with the special task to present a series of workshops, demonstrating the correlation between Music and Maths.

He completed his B Ed (Hons) degree Cum Laude at the end of that year and his research, THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A CHOIR CURRICULUM IN THE JUNIOR SCHOOL TO ENHANCE, SUPPORT and CONTRIBUTE to the linguistic development of the primary school learner, received outstanding reviews on the international platform.

With his passion and positive energy towards choral singing, he receives regular invitations to serve as adjudicator at eisteddfods and music competitions and has presented a number of choral conducting workshops around South Africa.

He is known for his campaign to ensure quality arts education to every child in every

school and live his life by the proverb, 'If you can WALK, you can DANCE. If you can

TALK, you CAN SING!'

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide
Learn more about the Creative Arts Conference

Music is so much more than notes and rhythms. Music is something that activates parts of our brains in truly unique ways.

My first course I took in my master’s program was a music psychology course. I was instantly hooked, and loved being able to dive further into how music affects our brains.

For this episode, I brought the amazing Jen Rafferty as a guest to talk more about just how music and neuroscience intersect in a truly unique way.

Presenter and author Jen Rafferty began her career as a middle school music teacher in Central New York. Jen brings her energy, humor, and expertise to all professional development workshops. She is known for her practical ideas and passion in her presentations while inspiring teachers to stay connected to their “why.”

Jen currently serves as the Co-chair of the New York State School Music Association’s (NYSSMA) Secondary Classroom Committee, member of the advocacy committee, and is the President of Cortland County Music Teachers Association.

She earned a B.M. in music education and vocal performance, a M.M. in music education from Ithaca College and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in educational psychology.

Jen is frequently invited to conduct elementary and middle school choirs throughout New York State. Additionally, in 2020 she founded Sing Together, an international virtual singing community of singers of all ages and abilities. Her most recent publication is A Place in the Staff: Finding Your Way as a Music Teacher, available on Amazon and JW Pepper.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of my guide on better serving the students with disabilities in your classroom!
Follow Jen on Instagram
Check out Jen’s Podcast
JenRafferty.com
Neuroteach book

Neuroteach: Brain Science and the Future of Education

What if I told you that you could easily implement more student choice in your classroom while at the same time increasing the level of differentiation in your lessons?

Today’s episode is all about how learning centers can do just that in your classroom!

I brought in the expert on centers in the music room, Aileen Miracle, to share why she believes learning centers belong in the music classroom, while also giving you tips to get started!

Aileen Miracle teaches general music, band, and choir in the Olentangy Local School District in Ohio; this is her twenty-third year of teaching. She received her Bachelor of Music Education from Central Michigan University in 1999, and her Master of Music in Music Education with a Kodály emphasis from Capital University in 2003.

Over the past fifteen years, she has held leadership roles in local, regional, and national music education organizations. In 2016, Aileen was awarded “Teacher of the Year” at Cheshire Elementary. She has taught Methodology and Folk Song Research for the Kodály Programs at Colorado State University, Capital University, and DePaul University, and presents workshops across the nation and around the world.

Links and Resources:

Check out That Music Teacher Store!
Grab your free centers set from Aileen
Check out Aileen’s blog
Follow Aileen on Instagram

I never liked the recorder. Even when I was in school it wasn’t my favorite.

But once I discovered how the recorder can be used as another tool of music-making rather than just another unit, I changed my tune (see what I did there?).

This episode is all about why the recorder ISN’T an instrument of torture, and why I think they belong in every elementary music classroom.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of my guide on better serving the students with disabilities in your classroom!

This episode is all about ukulele in the music classroom. You’ve probably heard of people using the ukulele in their classroom, but if you’re like me you still don’t quite have the administration support for the funding for these instruments, as well as where to start once you get them!

I hope this episode can help you get some talking points to help you convince the stakeholders in your program to support ukuleles in the music classroom.

John Hamel is the 3rd of 5 generations of musicians. He has been teaching guitar and ukulele for over 20 years. He is currently the K-8th grade music teacher at a private school in addition to teaching private lessons. He and his wife have 6 grown children and 27 grandchildren.

Links and Resources:

Gospel Ukulele Society on Facebook
Check out That Music Teacher Store!
Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

My lessons were a bit of a jumbled mess my first year of teaching. I’ll be the first one to say that I spent the majority of my first year just trying to survive.

But once I started mapping out my curriculum, everything changed.

This week’s episode is all about the process of curriculum mapping, and how starting this process not only made my teaching better, but also saved my time and sanity.

Links and Resources:

Check out That Music Teacher Store!

There are so many ways to teach a song, so how do we choose the best ways?

In this episode I share five ways to teach a song so you aren’t just using the same methods day in and day out.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

What can we do to combat teacher burnout? That's what I chatted with James Robinson, II about on this week's episode of That Music Podcast. Unfortunately, burnout is a very real problem within the teaching profession as a whole. Add on the fact that music teachers are often isolated on our own 'islands' and you have an even more exacerbated problem. James Robinson, II received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Limestone University in Gaffney, South Carolina, where he currently serves as the Assistant Director of Athletic Bands and Instrumental Music, the faculty advisor for the LU Collegiate NAfME chapter, and teaches the non-major percussion studio. Previously, he taught 2nd through 5th-grade general music, including an all-age honor choir, handbell ensemble, and the world-percussion club, in Gaston County, North Carolina. Robinson has presented professional development sessions for various state and local education associations with topics including relevant repertoire for elementary students, music tech in the elementary classroom, music teacher burnout causes and prevention, and the impact arts programs have on student mental health. Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide Follow James on Instagram Follow James on Twitter

Transitions can make or break a lesson. By thinking through the ways in which our students (and us as the teachers) move from one activity to the next, we are able to help make our lessons more streamlined and seamless.

This year I’m challenging myself to lesson plan in a way that focuses more on the transitions in my lessons. It’s definitely a bit more work on the front-end, but I’ve already seen some amazing results from this experiment.

In this episode of the podcast, I share some of my favorite ways to pivot between songs and activities in the elementary music classroom.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide!
Download the lesson plan template I’m using this year!

There are SOOOO many things I wish I knew before I walked into my music classroom. In this week’s episode I share a few of the things I truly think would have been a game-changer had I known before I started teaching music.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

This week I’m stepping back and thanking YOU for all of the hard work you have done this past school year.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

Today I share a few steps that you should take once you accept a teaching position.

Whether it is your first position, or you’re moving onto something new, there are so many things that you need to do to help set yourself up for success.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

A lot has happened in the past few days in my professional and personal life that has made me think about what it means to be inclusive in my classroom.

I’m not going to lie and say that the past few days have been easy. But I’ve been reminded why it is important for me to be an agent of change.

I’ve been reminded why it is important for us as educators to stand up against the system sometime and advocate for our students.

All students deserve to feel safe, seen, and valid in the music classroom. Hard stop.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

This week we talk about some ways to keep students (and ourselves) engaged at the end of the year!

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE copy of the Elementary Music Newbie Guide

In this episode I share a conversation I had with Katie Holbrook about how we as elementary music teachers can build meaningful relationships with our students.

Katie Holbrook is a Georgia-based third year music teacher and creator of 130 Music. She firmly stands on the belief that music is vital to a well-rounded education and seeks to integrate music with other subjects.

Her heart is in serving others, as she works to empower other music teachers and, in turn, their own students. She has presented at state conferences, and works with other teachers and teacherpreneurs to support both groups in their journey.

Music is healing, and Katie seeks out opportunities to use music in our social toolbox.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!
Follow Katie on Instagram
The 130 Music Blog

In this episode I share a conversation I had with Lesley Schultz about the fate of our teenagers after they leave our classrooms.

Lesley shares her experience with teaching general music at the secondary level and how we as elementary music teachers can work together to help better serve our students.

Lesley Schultz currently teaches Secondary General Music and Orchestra at Princeton City Schools (Cincinnati, OH). She earned her Bachelors of Music Education from West Virginia University and her Masters of Music Education from Ohio University. Lesley is a Level 2 Google Certified Educator. Lesley keeps an active performing schedule around the state of Ohio, performing with several regional symphonies on viola.

She is a member of TI:ME (Technology In Music Education) and serves as the Ohio Chapter President and on the National Conference Committee. Lesley is a columnist for SBO Magazine. In her copious amounts of spare time she enjoys knitting, watching West Virginia Mountaineer sports and spending time with her family and making TikToks about her cats.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE Elementary Music Newbie Guide
Lesley's Blog
Music for Teens Podcast

In this episode I share some ways that you can make your classroom more LGBT-friendly.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!

In this episode, I share my conversation with Rachel Ammons on her music teacher journey.

Rachel Ammons is a music educator in Central Ohio. Currently, she grades 2nd through 12th. She was a substitute teacher for three years after obtaining her Bachelors in Music Education from Ashland University in 2016.

Before taking a full time teaching position, she was an Assistant Marching Band Director in 2018 and a building substitute in 2019. She now teaches at an independent school for students with learning differences (including ADHD and Dyslexia). When she’s not teaching, Rachel enjoys reading, crocheting, and playing video games with her husband, Jim.

I absolutely loved being able to chat with Rachel. She shares so many wonderful insights into music education and her journey to become the music teacher she is today.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!
Follow Rachel on Instagram
Rachel’s Posts on the That Music Teacher blog
Check out Rachel’s Blog

In this episode I share a conversation with Charissa Duncanson on her music teacher journey.

Charissa Duncanson (kuh- rih-suh dung-kin-sen) has taught K-5th grade general music in the Metro Detroit Area since 2014. Born and raised in Michigan, Charissa began her musical journey in elementary school.

Throughout her childhood Charissa participated in choirs, bands, and theatre within her community and schools. She earned a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Education from Wayne State University and currently teaches at Blackwell K-8th Grade Institute in Detroit Public Schools.

As a professional, Charissa has presented locally and internationally at conferences and PD workshops. Being an avid advocate for music education, Ms. Duncanson has served on multiple boards for music education associations including MMEA Michigan, Detroit Orff Schulwerk Association, and The American Orff Schulwerk Association.

In her spare time Charissa loves to craft and go on walks with her husband and dog, Maizey.

I absolutely loved being able to chat with Charissa. She shares so many wonderful insights into music education and her journey to become the music teacher she is today.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!
Follow Charissa on Instagram
Follow Charissa on Facebook
Charissa’s Website

In this episode I share a conversation with Katherine Miller on her music teacher journey.

Katherine Miller proudly teaches Kindergarten-5th grade music in Waukesha, WI as well as serving as a model tech classroom for her district. In 2018, she was recognized as a WPT Education Innovator by Wisconsin Public Television Education.

Katherine holds a Bachelor of Music in Education degree from Otterbein University (Westerville, OH) and a Masters of Educational Leadership from Antioch McGregor Midwest (Yellow Springs, OH). The training she received gave her a firm foundation in leading a Kodály-inspired classroom. She also loves to incorporate technology as another tool students can use to be their most musical selves.

In her free time, you can find Katherine with a good book, a great travel companion or her chocolate Lab.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!
Follow Katherine on Instagram
Technology in the Music Classroom with Katherine Miller

In this episode I share a conversation with Anne Mileski on her music teacher journey.

Anne Mileski is an elementary music specialist in Eastern Washington. She is certified in Orff-Schulwerk, Kodály, Smithsonian Folkways World Music Pedagogy, Music Learning Theory Elementary General Level I, and has completed coursework in Dalcroze Eurythmics.

She is a regular clinician at local chapter workshops, state music conferences, and has presented at both the American Orff-Schulwerk Association and Organization of American Kodály Educators national conferences. In the summers, she has served as a pedagogy instructor for Kodály teacher education programs at both the American Kodály Institute at Loyola Maryland, and the Plano ISD/SMU Kodaly Certification Program in Dallas Texas.

Anne holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Trumpet Performance from the University of Michigan where she studied with Bill Campbell and a Master of Music degree in Trumpet Performance from Southern Methodist University where she studied with Tom Booth of the Dallas Symphony. She has performed on trumpet with prestigious groups such as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Dallas Wind Symphony.

In addition to her applied music studies, Anne holds a Master of Music degree in Music Education from Southern Methodist University. Prior to relocating to the pacific northwest, she completed coursework toward a doctorate in music education at Indiana University, Jacobs School of Music. She served as an associate instructor for the music education department, both as a supervisor for student teachers and as a teaching assistant for choral and elementary music methods courses. Also while at IU, she conducted second and third grade singers in the IU Children’s Choir.

Anne currently serves as a conductor for the Spokane Area Youth Choruses, and founded the ABC early childhood program for young singers through SAYC. She presents regularly at local, state, and national workshops and conferences, on topics including purposeful movement and curricular sequencing in the elementary classroom. She is the founder of anacrusic.com and The Anacrusic Podcast, where she helps music teachers get more intentional with their teaching through trainings, custom curriculum, and weekly podcasts.

Links and Resources:

Follow Anne on Instagram
AnneMileski.com

In this episode I share a conversation with Taylor Nardone on his music teacher journey.

Taylor Nardone is an elementary music teacher based on the eastern shore of Massachusetts.

Passionate about giving each student an equitable opportunity to build a love and joy of music, he consistently strives to blend the newest teaching techniques into his practices through technology, movement exploration and music production.

Taylor is currently in his fourth year of teaching general music and chorus.

Links and Resources:

Save 15% on used books with Thriftbooks
Follow Taylor on Instagram
Follow Taylor on Youtube

This week we’re gonna keep it real. This year has been so hard. In this week’s episode I reflect on my last couple of months teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. My music room has been silent for 83 days. During that time all of my students were receiving music asynchronously at-home. I was able to “push in” to the homeroom classes for five minutes a week, but that wasn’t cutting it. This past week we came back in a schedule that allows music to return to the music classroom. I have been thinking a lot about the music making we were able to experience this past week, and wanted to share my thoughts. Links and Resources:

Save 15% on used books with Thriftbooks

In this episode I chat with Vicky Weber about her journey as a music educator and a children’s book author.

Vicky Weber is a musician and an elementary educator with a love for children's literature. While she has taught a variety of grade levels, primary level education is where her passion lies. It has long been a dream of hers to teach children through the magic of books and she hopes you love reading her works as much as she loved writing them.

I absolutely loved being able to chat with Vicky. If you have not seen her books, I cannot recommend them enough! They are perfect for reinforcing and introducing various musical concepts!

Links and Resources:

Save 15% on used books with Thriftbooks
Follow Vicky on Instagram
Follow Vicky on Facebook
Vicky’s Website

In this episode I chat with Meghan Kennedy about using picture books in the music classroom.

Meghan Kennedy is in her fourth year of teaching elementary school music. She has taught elementary general music (K-5) and chorus (3-5) for the past 3 years in Georgia. Before moving to Georgia, she taught elementary general music and band in New Jersey where she grew up and began her music journey with the flute in the third grade.

Meghan attended the Sunderman Conservatory of Music at Gettysburg College for her Bachelors in Music Education. While in college, Meghan spent her summers earning her Level I, II and III Kodaly Certification from Westminster Choir College. Through these experiences Meghan discovered that her passion for teaching lies in Elementary Music, which is where she feels she can be the most creative with her students.

This passion for elementary music education mixed with her joy in connecting with other educators led Meghan to create her music teacher instagram a few years ago. You can follow along with Meghan @musicmrsk where she shares daily life as a music teacher, lesson ideas, materials and book recommendations (these are shared weekly in a series called "Music Book Monday").

She has also shared a series of rhythm call and response and play along videos on her YouTube channel MusicMrsK, which was created as part of an effort to create more free online resources for music educators in Spring 2020.

In conjunction with her social media presence, Meghan loves working on her TeachersPayTeachers store in her free time, Music Mrs K. Her store features elementary general music curriculum, lesson plans, and both digital and printable lesson materials. Meghan loves connecting with other music educators online as Music Mrs.K!

Links and Resources:

Save 15% on used books with Thriftbooks
Follow Meghan on Instagram
Follow Meghan on Youtube
Music Mrs. K TPT

In this episode I share my conversation with Darlene Machacon about how we can be sure we are respecting the identities of our students by allowing our curriculum to allow all students to feel seen and accepted in our music classrooms.

Darlene is a TK-6th grade elementary music educator, chorus director, private piano teacher, and podcaster in southern California. Her experiences include designing curriculum, directing studio music programs, leading professional development, and training new teachers.

She is passionate about creating student-centered learning environments and is a firm believer in “knowing better, doing better”.

She holds two Bachelor’s of Music degrees in Music Education and Piano Performance from Biola University and is currently pursuing a Master of Music Education degree from VanderCook College of Music.

I thoroughly enjoyed being able to chat with Darlene, and I hope that you find the episode as informative as I did.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!
Follow Darlene on Instagram
Follow Darlene on TikTok
Coloring the Melody Instagram
Coloring the Melody Podcast
Check out Darlene's Website

This week’s podcast comes from an Instagram live I did with a General Music Mastermind alumnae. Kate took the course when we did our beta launch over the summer and is going to be taking it again with us this time around.

Kate shares her experience with the course and helps me answer questions about the course for those who were tuning in live.

If you want to learn more about General Music Mastermind, click here! Hurry, we’re closing the doors on January 31st.

In this episode I share my conversation with Rainy Barton about how we can advocate for music education and our programs.

Especially now during the time of COVID-19, it is important for us to make sure we are advocating for high-quality music education for our students.

Rainy Barton is a K-5 elementary music teacher in Central Fl, and has been teaching for six years- all at the same school. She is on her way to being Orff -Schulwerk certified (It's taking a lot longer due to Covid).

She also is a teacherpreneur that creates digital music resources for music teachers, and her mission is to help them utilize a purposeful musical curriculum that inspires active music-making in the hearts of their students!

Her favorite food in a heartbeat is tacos, and in her spare time, you'll find her teaching silks and trapeze at her local circus studio (They have those- who knew?) She loves her job with a passion, and hopes to instill a love and appreciation for music with everyone she meets.

I enjoyed this conversation with Rainy, and I hope that you are able to find some ways to advocate for elementary music education in your community.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!
Follow Rainy on Instagram
Subscribe to Rainy on Youtube
Musically Whimsical on TPT
The Music Teacher’s Guide to Creating a Dynamic Music Curriculum (Freebie)

In the first (real) solo episode of the season, I share my experiences with teaching piano lessons to students with exceptional learning needs.

Whether it be using a visual schedule or a color-coded curriculum, there are so many easy ways to make private music lessons fabulous for our exceptional learner students.

Links and Resources:

Join the FREE Renew & Recharge email challenge!
Learn more about Musicologie

In this episode I share my conversation with Stephanie Powell about adaptive music education, and how she (accidentally) began teaching adaptive music lessons.

Stephanie Powell is a wife, mother of 4, special needs teacher and adaptive music instructor. She has lived in Pensacola, FL for 6 years and loves serving in her church, serving the community and spending warm days on the beach.

She started teaching adaptive music lessons 5 years ago when she noticed many of her school students learned music concepts very quickly but didn’t have anyone outside of school to help them develop music skills.

This conversation with Stephanie is wonderful, and I loved being able to talk to her as someone who comes from the world of special education.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!
Creative Miracles: A Practitioner's Guide to Adaptive Music Instruction (Affiliate Link)
The Autism Helper
Follow Stephanie on Instagram
Follow Stephanie on Facebook
Melody Makers 850 Website

Creative Miracles: A Practitioner's Guide to Adaptive Music Instruction

In this episode I share my conversation with Lauren Marcinkowski about the intersections between music education and music therapy.

Lauren Marcinkowski is a PA, K-12 certified music teacher and board-certified music therapist. She also has Pennsylvania certifications in special education and elementary education. Lauren lives in Bucks County, PA, which is in the greater Philadelphia area.

Lauren is currently serving as a Special Education teacher in Bucks County. Previously, she was a music teacher for an educational agency which services students with special needs in alternative settings. She taught students of all abilities from grades K to 12 and older. Lauren loves teaching and is passionate about advocating for all students, especially those most who struggle advocating for themselves.

Lauren is a wife, a mother to a baby boy, and a proud wife to an incredible husband who is a special education teacher himself. She has two wonderful parents, and two amazing sisters and one brother.

Lauren's brother and uncle lived with her while growing up, and both have diagnoses of intellectual disabilities and autism. Growing up with them has given her a unique insight to unique challenges that families with children who have disabilities face.

Lauren also is a blog contributor for That Music Teacher, so you might recognize her name if you are familiar with our blog.

Links and Resources:

Grab your FREE guide on better serving students with exceptional needs!
Lauren’s Posts on the That Music Teacher blog
Follow Lauren on Instagram
Music in Special Education (Affiliate Link)
Models of Music Therapy in School Settings (Affiliate Link)
American Music Therapy Association

Music in Special Education, Third Edition

Models of Music Therapy Intervention in School Settings

In this episode I share what I’ve been up to over the past months. While I didn’t anticipate for the podcast’s hiatus to last this long, life had other plans.

Like many of us, COVID-19 completely changed what my job looked like, and while I had every intention of launching season two at the beginning of the school year, I knew that I wasn’t going to be able to do everything.

So here we are.

Even though it’s later than I expected, I am SO glad to finally be launching season two of That Music Podcast! This season is going to be the best one yet, and I cannot wait for you to let me know what you think of this season!

That Music Podcast is back. Season two launches on January 6th, 2021 with three brand new episodes!

Make sure you are subscribed so you won't miss a new episode every Wednesday!

Wow, is it really the end of season one? I am so incredibly grateful for all of you for supporting me over the past six months as I started this new adventure.

On this week’s episode I take a look back at season one and break down a few of my all-time favorite episodes and the takeaways that have helped me in my classroom during this crazy year!

I’ll be taking a break from new episodes for the summer, but That Music Podcast will be back in full-force in the fall!

Links and Resources:

Start the Year Strong (free webinar)
Episode 5: Music Therapy with Kate Shannon, MT-BC
Episode 8: Technology in the Music Classroom with Katherine Miller
Episode 14: We Are Still All Connected
Episode 15: Digital Music Teaching with Michelle Rose
Episode 22: What This Year Has Taught Me

This episode is brought to you by my free webinar on Starting the Year Strong. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a successful year of teaching, head on over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/startstrong to reserve your spot!

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast.

This week’s podcast is about things that I learned during this past year of teaching. As the year comes to a close, I have been thinking back on the past year. And let’s be honest, it's been a crazy year.

Links and Resources:

Start the Year Strong (free webinar)

This episode is brought to you by my free webinar on Starting the Year Strong. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a successful year of teaching, head on over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/startstrong to reserve your spot!

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m sharing a few things that I learned about teaching elementary music that I didn’t know when I came out of undergrad.

Links and Resources:

Start the Year Strong (free webinar)

This episode is brought to you by my free webinar on Starting the Year Strong. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a successful year of teaching, head on over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/startstrong to reserve your spot!

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m taking a step back and looking at the last few weeks of remote teaching.

Links and Resources:

FREE Music Teaching Portfolio Template

This episode is brought to you by my FREE editable music teaching portfolio template. Whether you are looking for your first job, or are just trying to find something new, this free template will help you stand out from the rest of the applicants. To grab your easy-to-use template, head over to www.ThatMusicTeacher.com/Portfolio

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m talking with Katie Wonderly about how she has adjusted to teaching remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Katie Wonderly is a fourth-year teacher, making music with 650 of her favorite musicians in Oklahoma City. She graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Music Education from Oklahoma City University in 2015 and has completed two summers of master's coursework in Kodály Pedagogy at the University of Oklahoma.

Katie is a member of The Organization of American Kodály Educators, National Association for Music Education, and the National Education Association. She was recently named the 2020 Putnam City District Teacher of the Year.

Katie connects with educators and community members through social media platforms under the username, Ms. Wonderly Makes Music (@mswonderlymakesmusic). She is known for innovatively sharing her journey as a young music educator, featuring favorite resources, classroom decor, lesson ideas, tech tips, and more. Through these platforms, she has been able to share and collaborate with educators across the world.

Katie believes every classroom should be a place where creativity, community, and diversity are embraced and encouraged. She strives to teach in a way that ensures every student leaves her room knowing their voice matters, and that they are an essential part of the ensemble.

Links and Resources:

@MsWonderlyMakesMusic

This episode is brought to you by ThriftBooks. To save 15% on your first order PLUS free shipping on all orders over $10, head over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/thriftbooks.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m talking with Jackie Sunga about different ways that we can make sure we are taking care of our mental health during these unprecedented times.

Jackie Sunga is finishing her fifth year as a K-4 music teacher in Fort Worth, TX. She completed her Kodaly certification at Texas State University with the authors of Kodaly Today and El Patio de Mi Casa. She is currently finishing up her life coaching certification with Hungry for Happiness.

As a coach, she helps millennial women alleviate anxiety holistically.

Links and Resources:

@GenuinelyJackie
www.JackieSunga.co

This episode is brought to you by ThriftBooks. To save 15% on your first order PLUS free shipping on all orders over $10, head over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/thriftbooks.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m talking to my good friend Melody Oberschlake about Little Kids Rock.

Melody Oberschlake received her Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Ohio Wesleyan University in 2017. During her time at Ohio Wesleyan she majored in vocal music education while also minoring in clarinet and piano.

She is in her third year of teaching 5th and 6th grade General Music at Lakeview Intermediate School in the Stow Munroe Falls City School District where she also teaches choir and directs the school musicals. In her free time, she loves crafting, trips to Cedar Point, and spending time with her husband Jonathan and dog Theo.

Links and Resources:

FREE Music Teaching Portfolio Template
Little Kids Rock

This episode is brought to you by my FREE editable music teaching portfolio template. Whether you are looking for your first job, or are just trying to find something new, this free template will help you stand out from the rest of the applicants. To grab your easy-to-use template, head over to www.ThatMusicTeacher.com/Portfolio

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m talking to my friend Kelsey Burkett about culturally responsive music education.

Raised in Solon, OH, Kelsey D. Burkett is a 2006 Graduate of Capital University, where she majored in Music Education and served as the alto section leader in the renown Chapel Choir. She completed her Masters of Music in Music Education and Kodaly Certification from Capital University in 2019. In her 14th year of teaching, she has gained a passion for the developing voice and middle school singers.

Currently she serves as the Director of Choirs at Hilliard Memorial Middle School, where she directs the 7th Grade Treble Choir, 8th Grade Treble Choir, Blue Notes, and the annual school musical. Choirs under her direction have consistently received Superior and Excellent ratings and Grand Championships at the District, State, and National Contest levels. In June 2016, the MMS Choirs made their Carnegie Hall Debut as a part of the Songs of Inspiration and Hope Concert under the director of Mrs. Lori Loftus.

Ms. Burkett maintains an active singing career, performing with professional ensembles around the city of Columbus. In March 2020, she was selected as one of ten National recipients as a 2020 CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence. Her most important job is being Mommy to 16-Month old Harper.

Links and Resources:

FREE 5-Day Music Technology Challenge
Jaguar Choirs Instagram
Decolonizing the Music Room

This episode is brought to you our FREE 5-day challenge all about including technology in the music classroom. Click here to join.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m talking to Michelle Rose about teaching music remotely over the internet.

Michelle Rose teaches middle and high school general music and directs the extracurricular virtual band/orchestra and choir at North Carolina Virtual Academy. She is also the director of the International Music Education Summit Virtual Honor Band.

Michelle holds a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education and Performance (flute) from Elon University and is currently pursuing a Master's in Music Education from The University of North Carolina Greensboro. She is a teacher-author and blogger at themusicalrose.com.

Michelle has been a presenter at several conferences and has been a guest speaker for pre-service music teachers at colleges across the country. In her free time, she enjoys baking, sewing, and going on walks with her dog Tovy (short for Beethoven).

Links and Resources:

FREE 5-Day Music Technology Challenge
Follow Michelle on Instagram
Intro to using Zoom for music teachers
Choir Rehearsal in Zoom
Band Rehearsal in Zoom
Elementary General Music Lesson in Zoom with Nearpod
Music Educators Creating Online Learning Facebook Group
Nearpod
Zoom

This episode is brought to you our FREE 5-day challenge all about including technology in the music classroom. Click here to join.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

As many of us transition into teaching remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted to offer my support and remind you that we are still all connected through the power of music, even if we aren’t in the same room.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m sharing a few ways that I regroup and refocus after a particularly rough class.

Links and Resources:

FREE Music Teaching Portfolio Template
Mindfulness in the Music Classroom

This episode is brought to you by my FREE editable music teaching portfolio template. Whether you are looking for your first job, or are just trying to find something new, this free template will help you stand out from the rest of the applicants. To grab your easy-to-use template, head over to www.ThatMusicTeacher.com/Portfolio

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m sharing the somewhat unique way that I ended up being a music teacher.

Links and Resources:

FREE 5-Day Music Technology Challenge

This episode is brought to you our FREE 5-day challenge all about including technology in the music classroom. Click here to join.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m sharing some of my all-time favorite ways to sequence composition and improvisation in the music classroom.

Composition can be incredibly intimidating to our students, especially if it’s something they haven’t done before. As is true with most things in our classroom, using a sequence that builds upon itself can really help take away some of the anxiety of learning something new.

Links and Resources:

FREE 5-Day Music Technology Challenge
Fall Food Rhythm Cards
Rhythm Composition Cards
Burger Composition Bundle
Ostinato Composition Lesson Plan
Chrome Song Maker Lesson Plan

This episode is brought to you our FREE 5-day challenge all about including technology in the music classroom. Click here to join.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

So many music educators face the task of building a music program from the bottom up. It can be hard to know what to do in these situations, especially when most of our fieldwork in undergraduate settings are in well-established settings.

My guest this week is my good friend Abby Helbling. Abby is a second-year teacher who has been working hard to rebuild the music program in her current position. In our conversation, Abby shares her story and gives great advice for any music teacher who is trying to wear #AllTheHats and rebuild a music program.

Abby Helbling is in her second year of teaching at Hillsdale Local Schools. She directs four choral ensembles ranging from 5th-12th grade, as well as teaching 5th and 6th grade general music and guitar at the high school level. Abby has numerous experiences in performing on stage for musicals and choral events.

During her masters degree, she worked for the Notre Dame Children’s Choir, where she was the assistant director for the Chamber Choir for two years. She has worked and performed with choirs in Europe, as well. Outside of school, Abby enjoys exercising, reading, musical theatre, and spending time with family, friends, and her cat, Ivan.

Abby holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from Ohio Wesleyan University and a Masters of Sacred Music with an emphasis in Choral Conducting from the University of Notre Dame. She resides in Wooster, Ohio.

This episode is brought to you by ThriftBooks. To save 15% on your first order PLUS free shipping on all orders over $10, head over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/thriftbooks.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m sharing my personal philosophy on performances in the elementary music classroom.

Whether you love it or hate it, performances are a huge part of our jobs as music teachers. If you were to ask 100 music teachers how they plan performances, you’d probably get nearly 100 different answers. Because when it comes down to it, we are all different people, serving different students, in entirely unique situations.

This episode is brought to you by ThriftBooks. To save 15% on your first order PLUS free shipping on all orders over $10, head over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/thriftbooks.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m joined by the amazing Katherine Miller.

Katherine Miller is an elementary music teacher in Waukesha, WI. She proudly teaches Kindergarten-5th grade music as well as serving as a model tech classroom for her district. Incorporating technology into her teaching has allowed Katherine to connect with so many students and other educators. Katherine was recognized as a WPT Education Innovator by Wisconsin Public Television’s Education team in 2018.

Katherine holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Otterbein University and a Masters of Educational Leadership from Antioch McGregor Midwest.

Links and Resources:

FREE 5-Day Music Technology Challenge

This episode is brought to you our FREE 5-day challenge all about including technology in the music classroom. Click here to join.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m sharing about how I strive to create a positive community in the music classroom.

A positive classroom environment is incredibly important. In the music room, it can mean the difference between a student feeling confident enough to try something new and refusing to participate.

While all teachers begin to craft their own classroom philosophies based on their education, past experiences, and personal differences, I believe there are a few published philosophes that I have greatly drawn on to create my own.

Links and Resources:

Responsive Classroom for Music, Art, PE, and Other Special Areas
Teaching with Love & Logic: Taking Control of the Classroom
Better Than Carrots or Sticks: Restorative Practices for Positive Classroom Management

This episode is brought to you by ThriftBooks. To save 15% on your first order PLUS free shipping on all orders over $10, head over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/thriftbooks.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

*This post may contain affiliate links. These links help support the podcast with no additional cost to you!

Better Than Carrots or Sticks: Restorative Practices for Positive Classroom Management

Responsive Classroom for Music, Art, PE, and Other Special Areas

Teaching with Love & Logic: Taking Control of the Classroom

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m sharing a little bit of the research on music education for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder that I came across while pursuing my Masters of Music Education at Capital University.

Across the United States, there are music educators that are teaching students with varying levels of exceptional needs. One of the subsets within this student population are students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Just as ASD itself lies upon a spectrum, so too does the need for accommodations and supports for students with ASD to have successful musical experiences.

Links and Resources:

5 Ways to Better Serve Students with Exceptional Needs
Intersections Between Music Education and Music Therapy
Using Music to Encourage Joint Attention for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder
The Challenges of Imitation for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders with Implications for General Music Education
Music Education for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Resource for Teachers

This episode is brought to you by my free guide on 5 Ways to Better Serve Students with Exceptional Needs. To download your free PDF, head on over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/exceptionallearners.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

*This post may contain affiliate links. These links help support the podcast with no additional cost to you!

Music Education for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Resource for Teachers

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I had the great pleasure to sit down with Kate Shannon, MT-BC to talk about music therapy and the intersections between music therapy and music education.

Kate Shannon is a board-certified music therapist working in the Denver, CO area. She is currently finishing up the requirements to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and is excited to become a dual-certified clinician to better support her clients needs. She is passionate about working with children with developmental differences and special learners. Kate is the host of "Creative Therapy Umbrella: The Podcast" and loves to hike, read, knit, create, play with her dog and cat, and laugh with her husband.

Links & Resources:

5 Ways to Better Serve Students with Exceptional Needs
American Music Therapy Association
Music in Special Education
Music, Therapy, and Early Childhood
Music Education for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Resource for Teachers
Fact Sheets
Music Therapy Ed
Follow Kate on Instagram
Creative Therapy Umbrella Podcast
www.CreativeTherapyUmbrella.com

This episode is brought to you by my free guide on 5 Ways to Better Serve Students with Exceptional Needs. To download your free PDF, head on over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/exceptionallearners.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

*This post may contain affiliate links. These links help support the podcast with no additional cost to you!

Music, Therapy, and Early Childhood

Music in Special Education, Third Edition

Music Education for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Resource for Teachers

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I’m talking about something that is near and dear to my heart as a teacher in a Title I school: trauma sensitivity.

Like most music teachers out there, I have many students that walk through my door that have experienced more trauma than any child should ever have to experience. These Adverse Childhood Experiences alter the way our students are able to learn, both on physical and emotional levels. On this episode of That Music Podcast, I share a few ways to help better serve these students in order to make sure they can be successful.

Links & Resources:

5 Ways to Better Serve Students with Exceptional Needs
Adverse Childhood Experiences (CDC)
Take the ACES Survey

This episode is brought to you by my free guide on 5 Ways to Better Serve Students with Exceptional Needs. To download your free PDF, head on over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/exceptionallearners.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. This week I shared my favorite ways to keep my sanity as a traveling music teacher.

For better or for worse, being a traveling teacher is a reality for a large percentage of music teachers, especially those at the elementary level. While I can vouch that there are definitely advantages and disadvantages of sharing your time between multiple schools, I can also vouch that you need to set some specific procedures for yourself so that you don’t go crazy.

This episode is brought to you by ThriftBooks. To save 15% on your first order PLUS free shipping on all orders over $10, head over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/thriftbooks.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. Today I shared my experience student teaching music, and what I wish I would have known before stepping foot into the classroom.

I spent the weeks leading up to student teaching searching the internet for tips and tricks about student teaching music. I was able to find some helpful information about being a student teaching in general, but I felt like there was always something missing. After all, student teaching for music looks completely different than student teaching in the general classroom.

This episode is brought to you by ThriftBooks. To save 15% on your first order PLUS free shipping on all orders over $10, head over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/thriftbooks.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Thank you for listening to this episode of That Music Podcast. In this episode, I talk about goal setting for music teachers.

I set goals for myself at the beginning of the school year. I think it’s a great way to frame my year and work towards bettering myself as a musician and educator. Now that we’re in a brand new decade, I decided to sit down with a cup of coffee and reflect on these goals. Whether you’ve already set goals or are just thinking about some, this episode is for you!

This episode is brought to you by ThriftBooks. To save 15% on your first order PLUS free shipping on all orders over $10, head over to www.thatmusicteacher.com/thriftbooks.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com.

While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!

Each week on That Music Podcast you’ll hear from me, Bryson Tarbet, about what it really means to be a music teacher. Along the way, you’ll hear from friends and colleagues that are able to bring valuable insights into their specialties and share actionable steps to influence our own classrooms in a positive way.

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes of That Music Podcast. You can check out show notes and more at www.thatmusicteacher.com. While you’re here, take a moment to join the free General Music Mastermind Facebook group!