Best Classroom Composers Podcasts (2025)

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107. Mac Mayer of Whitaker Middle School in Keizer, OR shares his journey in string teaching and shares some great ideas for warmups, repertoire, and more. 50:22

7h ago50:22

50:22

In Episode 107 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, host Dr. Charles Laux welcomes Mac Mayer, orchestra director at Whitaker Middle School in Keizer, Oregon, for an insightful conversation about teaching strings across different regions and levels. With 22 years of experience spanning Ohio, Georgia, Kansas, and Oregon, Mac shares his journey in string…

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106. Practical, hands-on cello pedagogy with Harrison Cook. Facilitating scale fingerings, shifting, and extensions, oh my! 20:22

7d ago20:22

20:22

This video episode features an amazing cellist and pedagogue, Harrison Cook, who is the orchestra director at Kennesaw Mountain High School in Kennesaw, Georgia. Harrison gives us some practical, hands-on pedagogy about cello scale fingerings, shifting, extensions, and more. — BIOGRAPHY — Harrison is currently the Director of Orchestras at Kennesaw…

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105. Annie Ray, Orchestra Director at Annandale HS in Virginia and 2024 Music Educator Grammy Award Winner discusses her unique teaching approach and more. 47:00

14d ago47:00

47:00

Episode 105 — Annie Ray: Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact in Orchestra Education In this powerful episode, we sit down with Annie Ray, 2024 GRAMMY Music Educator Award winner and Orchestra Director at Annandale High School in Fairfax County, VA. Annie shares how she’s redefining access to music education through groundbreaking programs like the Fa…

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104. Dr. Heather Lofdahl, Assistant Professor of Music Ed at The Ohio State University discusses her career and shares some of her favorite go-to pedagogy tips 38:20

22d ago38:20

38:20

Episode 104 — Dr. Heather Lofdahl: Expanding String Education & Teacher Training Join us for a conversation with Dr. Heather Lofdahl, Assistant Professor of Music Education at The Ohio State University and recipient of the 2025 OSU Distinguished Teaching Award. We discuss her work expanding access to string education through community partnerships,…

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103. Dr. Tamara Dworetz: Leading with Passion, Purpose, and Presence 37:06

29d ago37:06

37:06

🎙️ Episode 103 — Dr. Tamara Dworetz: Leading with Passion, Purpose, and Presence In this inspiring episode, we welcome Dr. Tamara Dworetz, a dynamic American conductor whose passion for music, education, and storytelling is evident in every note she leads. Tamara shares her incredible journey—from her beginnings in the Atlanta public school system …

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102. Dr. Benjamin Whitcomb shares insights from his extensive career as a performer, educator, and author 39:18

1M ago39:18

39:18

Episode 102 – Dr. Benjamin Whitcomb: Performer, Pedagogue, and Prolific Author In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome the esteemed Dr. Benjamin Whitcomb, Professor of Cello and Music Theory at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. Dr. Whitcomb shares insights from his extensive career as a performer, educator, and author. Wi…

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101. Dr. Rick Webb, Associate Professor at SUNY-Fredonia, joins us to discuss his journey in music education, the importance of arranging works by underrepresented composers, and more! 31:05

1M ago31:05

31:05

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast – Episode #101 with Dr. Rick Webb In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome Dr. Richard S. Webb, a distinguished educator, conductor, and scholar in the field of string music education. Dr. Webb shares insights from his journey, from earning degrees in viola performance and music education at Bowling…

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100. Dr. Bob Gillespie talks about his training, his career, the beginning of Essential Elements, and more! 1:10:08

2M ago1:10:08

1:10:08

We’ve made it to Episode 100 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, and there’s no better way to celebrate this milestone than by welcoming one of the most influential voices in string education—Dr. Bob Gillespie. Dr. Gillespie is Professor Emeritus of String Education and Pedagogy at The Ohio State University, a past national President of the American …

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99. Jesús Florido discusses his roots in El Sistema and his journey performing and teaching all over the globe. 1:05:12

2M ago1:05:12

1:05:12

Episode #99 – Bridging Cultures and Styles with Jesús Florido In this vibrant episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome the incomparable Jesús E. Florido—a genre-defying violinist, passionate educator, and global clinician whose music and teaching transcend borders. Classically trained yet wildly versatile, Jesús brings a rich fusion of …

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#50: Making the Ensemble a Home for Students | With Brenda Justice 1:02:35

2M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! In our final episode of Season 2, we are beyond thrilled to have Brenda Justice, former choir director at Rouse High School, as our final guest - Christian's high school choir director! Brenda shares her experience in creating a culture that made a difference in the lives of countless students, as well as t…

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98. Dr. James Mick of Ithaca College discusses college teaching, his research, and more! 49:45

2M ago49:45

49:45

Episode #98 – Dr. James Mick discusses college teaching, his research, and more! In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. James Mick, Professor of Music Education at Ithaca College, for an insightful conversation on the art and heart of string education. With a wealth of experience as a conductor, pedagogue, …

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97. Inspiring the Next Generation: A Conversation with Daniella Valdez of CYSO String Ensembles and Maine West High School in Des Plaines, IL 46:55

2M ago46:55

46:55

Episode 97 – Inspiring the Next Generation: A Conversation with Daniella Valdez In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Daniella Valdez, a dynamic music educator, conductor, and advocate for orchestral excellence. As the Director of String Ensembles at the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO) and Director of…

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96. A Legacy of Excellence: Bill Bitter on Four Decades of Music Education 42:16

2M ago42:16

42:16

Episode 96 – A Legacy of Excellence: Bill Bitter on Four Decades of Music Education In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I am honored to welcome the legendary Bill Bitter, a powerhouse in music education with over 40 years of experience in Gilbert Public Schools, Arizona. Mr. Bitter dedicated his career to shaping young musicians, teac…

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#49: Focusing on What Matters Most in the Music Classroom 15:39

2M ago15:39

15:39

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! In this episode, Kara tells us about the growth she has experienced in the past year as an educator. One of the biggest areas has been a mindset-shift in focusing on what you need to grow, and not what others think! Browse Kara's TPT Store! Follow our official Instagram page and become a part of the communi…

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95. Dr. Geoff Neuman from the State College of Florida discusses his career, his teaching, performing, and philosophy. 45:30

3M ago45:30

45:30

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we sit down with the incredibly talented Dr. Geoff Neuman, a seasoned conductor, educator, and bassist. Dr. Neuman currently serves as the Director of Instrumental Music at The State College of Florida, where he leads The Bradenton Symphony and SCF Symphonic Band. With over 25 years of experience in…

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94. Georgia Ekonomou discusses her amazing career, her philosophy of an orchestra program, and her work on the ASTA Emeritus Committee. 48:11

3M ago48:11

48:11

In episode 94 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are honored to welcome the esteemed Georgia Lambros Ekonomou. With an impressive career spanning decades, Georgia has made a profound impact on string education in Georgia and beyond. As the former director of orchestras at the Paideia School and the Lovett School, she has led ensembles to national…

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93. An insightful conversation with Dr. Mark Laycock on mentorship, music education, orchestral leadership, conducting and more 42:33

3M ago42:33

42:33

🎻 Episode #93 – A Lifetime of Orchestral Excellence with Dr. Mark Laycock 🎶 In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are honored to welcome Dr. Mark Laycock, Professor of Music at Wichita State University, where he holds the Ann Walenta Faculty of Distinction Endowed Professorship. As Director of Orchestras and Coordinator of Strings, D…

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Sponsorship Announcement - Kaleidoscope Adventures! 1:10

3M ago1:10

1:10

I am proud to announce that The Orchestra Teacher Podcast is now sponsored by Kaleidoscope Adventures! As a leader in the student travel industry for 30+ years, Kaleidoscope Adventures exceeds expectations for student and performance group travel.Learn more at https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast…

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92. Inspiring Excellence in Music Education with Stephen Lawrence-Carroll 41:32

3M ago41:32

41:32

🎻 Episode #92 – Inspiring Excellence in Music Education with Stephen Lawrence-Carroll 🎶 In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Stephen Lawrence-Carroll, an esteemed music educator and Director of Orchestral and Music Theory Activities at North Atlanta High School in Atlanta, GA. As the Fine and Performing Arts …

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91. Kiana June Weber, an American-Irish Fiddler, educator, and entrepreneur discusses her career and implementing fiddling into the classroom and her teaching 31:09

4M ago31:09

31:09

Episode #91: Fiddling in the Classroom with Kiana June Weber In this exciting episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome Kiana June Weber—renowned American-Irish fiddler, educator, and entrepreneur—to discuss her inspiring journey and how teachers can incorporate fiddling into the classroom. A visionary educator and thought leader, Kiana …

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90. Building Bridges: Fostering Collaboration Between Band and Orchestra Directors with Susan Abell & Nick Blue 56:23

4M ago56:23

56:23

Building Bridges: Fostering Collaboration Between Band and Orchestra Directors In this special episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome two outstanding music educators, Susan Abell and Nick Blue, to discuss the importance of building a collaborative and supportive relationship between band and orchestra directors. Far too often, band an…

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#48: Why Diversifying Your Musical Skillset Matters | With Cody Hutcheson 48:30

4M ago48:30

48:30

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! In this episode, Cody Hutcheson, Composer and Assistant Professor of Piano at Howard Payne University, joins us to discuss the variety of experiences he has had in the music profession and how each of them have benefited his understanding of music. This is also a great discussion about how each of us should…

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89. Jessie Fuchs, Orchestra Director at Kell HS, in Marietta, GA, discusses an upcoming presentation at the ASTA national conference. 27:45

4M ago27:45

27:45

In this special episode, hosts Charles Laux and Jessica Fuchs dive into their upcoming presentation at the ASTA National Conference:Compare, Contrast, Collaborate: Perspectives from Early and Late Career Experiences. Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of orchestra education through the lens of both new and seasoned educators. We’ll discus…

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88. Amy Clement and Sarah Ball discuss their careers and decades of co-teaching at North Gwinnett Middle School 36:45

4M ago36:45

36:45

Amy Clement has taught orchestra in Gwinnett County since 1997. She is currently in her 16th year as one of the orchestra directors at North Gwinnett Middle School. Orchestras under the direction of Ms. Clement have consistently received superior ratings at Large Group Performance Evaluation and her students also participate in solo/ensemble, count…

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87. Harrison Cook discusses his program at Kennesaw Mountain High School 34:23

4M ago34:23

34:23

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast – Special Guest Harrison Cook 🎻 In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome Harrison Cook, Director of Orchestras at Kennesaw Mountain High School in Cobb County, Georgia. Now in his ninth year of teaching, Harrison brings a unique perspective to the classroom, having transitioned from a full-time care…

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#47: Vocal Pedagogy for the Choral Ensemble | With Francis Cathlina 58:06

4M ago58:06

58:06

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! In this episode, Dr. Francis Cathlina, Director of Choral Activities at the University of Memphis, joins us to discuss multiple techniques for improving your choir's tone and the importance of understanding the physical workings of your instrument - whether it's your voice or something else! Download the sh…

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86. Building an Orchestra Legacy: Insights from Angela Harman of OrchestraClassroom.com 28:25

5M ago28:25

28:25

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I have a conversation with Angela Harman, a dynamic music educator and leader in the string education community. Angela teaches orchestra in Utah’s Nebo School District, where her dedication and passion have grown her program to include over 360 students daily. Angela is also the founder of Orchestr…

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85. A Conversation with Christine Gero, Orchestra Director at Roosevelt HS in Seattle, WA 58:42

5M ago58:42

58:42

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Christine E. Gero, an accomplished conductor, violinist, and music educator. 🎧 Tune in to learn more about Ms. Gero’s unique path, her experiences as a violinist and educator, and her thoughts on keeping orchestra education vibrant and relevant in today’s world. Don’t miss th…

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84. Advancing String Education: A Conversation with Dr. David Pope 34:36

5M ago34:36

34:36

David Pope serves an Associate Professor of Music Education at Baldwin Wallace University’s Conservatory of Performing Arts. In addition, he is also a senior conductor and camp director for the Baldwin Wallace University String Orchestra Camp and serves as a string clinician for Alfred Music. As an active adjudicator and clinician, he has conducted…

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Trailer for Episodes 84, 85, & 86 - Weekend of January 24, 2025 1:21

5M ago1:21

1:21

Weekend Preview!! Some fantastic episodes coming this weekend! A trifecta of greatness -- college, high school, and middle school specialists!! Friday is Dr. David Pope from Baldwin Wallace University. Saturday I have Christine Gero who is orchestra director in Seattle, Washington. Then on Sunday is the incredible Angela Harman, Orchestra Director …

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#46: How to Commission a Composer (and Why You Should) 31:36

5M ago31:36

31:36

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! In our first-ever "solo" episode, Christian explains the process of commissioning composers - having a composer write a brand new piece of music for your ensemble to premiere to the world! He also talks about how commissioning can be an educational experience for students, and the different ways composers t…

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83. David Doke discusses his career, his incredible school orchestra trips, some repertoire, and his transition to retirement 45:33

5M ago45:33

45:33

David Doke is a dedicated and accomplished music educator with over 30 years of experience in orchestra program development and conducting. He spent his teaching career in the Cobb County (GA) School System, where he holds the notable achievement of founding two high school orchestra programs. His teaching journey began in 1994 as the founding dire…

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82. Ben McWhorter, orchestra director at Tates Creek HS in Lexington, KY discusses his unique program including professional chamber music coaching, a peer tutoring program, and more. 53:49

5M ago53:49

53:49

Ben McWhorter is the orchestra teacher at Tates Creek High School in Lexington, Kentucky. Known for his professional, engaging, and collaborative approach to teaching, Ben’s orchestras have consistently earned “Distinguished” ratings at district performance assessments during his 19 year tenure. In 2023, Ben implemented a middle school mentoring pr…

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81. Tom Chen talks about his program at Carmel High School, selecting repertoire, working with younger high school orchestras, and more. 56:22

5M ago56:22

56:22

Thomas Chen is Director of Orchestras at Carmel High School in Carmel, Indiana. Under his direction, the Carmel High School Symphony Orchestra earned regular appearances at the Indiana State School Music Association State High School Concert Finals, produced a recording of Dvorak Symphony No. 9, and performed at The Midwest Clinic in 2019 and 2024.…

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#45: Breaking the Small School Stigma | With Bryce Gage 57:28

5M ago57:28

57:28

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! Our first guest of 2025 is Mr. Bryce Gage, choir director at Marble Falls High School! Having worked at a 4A program for many years now, Bryce gives us all the examples of what he did to grow what was a tiny choral program into a group that is performing at TMEA this year! He also emphasizes the importance …

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80. Lauren Roznowski Hayden discusses her MS program with over 300 students! 30:54

6M ago30:54

30:54

This the LAST episode for 2024! Thank you for the support this year! A ton of great content coming your way in 2025!About episode #80...Lauren Roznowski Hayden works for Longfellow Middle School, as orchestra teacher to more than 315 students. She has been a public school teacher for over 17 years, teaching orchestra at the elementary, middle, and …

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#44: How to Make the Most of Your Circumstances | With Diane Harper 1:02:56

6M ago1:02:56

1:02:56

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! Mrs. Diane Harper joins us on the podcast to talk about her experience in the classroom, and how she dealt with the many obstacles she faced. Now a retired orchestra director, Diane provides insight as to how teachers (especially new teachers) can stay strong and keep moving forward during a time when teach…

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79. Dr. Rachael Keplin discusses free improvisation and mindfulness and it's impact on string teaching and learning. 51:32

6M ago51:32

51:32

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Dr. Rachael Keplin—a versatile violist, string educator, and free improviser—for a deep dive into the world of free improvisation, mindfulness, and their transformative impact on learning to play stringed instruments.Dr. Keplin shares her unique approach to fostering creativity and connection through …

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78. Special episode with alumni to discuss orchestra's impact on success in the real world! 1:14:54

6M ago1:14:54

1:14:54

In this heartfelt episode, I reunite with three remarkable former Alpharetta High School Orchestra students—Jason Juang, Kacie Xie, and Sarang Pujari—as they share their orchestra journeys and how those experiences have shaped their collegiate years and budding careers. From concert stages to cutting-edge innovation, their stories highlight the tra…

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Trailer for Episodes 78 & 79 1:11

6M ago1:11

1:11

A trailer about upcoming episodes featuring some incredible former students! You won't want to miss them!Friday, December 6 - Episode #78 with Sarang Pujari, Kaci Xie, and Jason JuangSunday, December 8 - Episode #79 with Dr. Rachael Keplin

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77. Conversation with Vinny Conrod, Orchestra Director at Innovation High School in Orlando, FL 34:58

7M ago34:58

34:58

In episode #77 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are joined by Vinny Conrod, Director of Orchestras at Innovation High School in Orlando, FL, and President of the Florida chapter of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA). With years of experience teaching at both the middle and high school levels, Vinny shares his journey of opening a b…

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#43: The Beauty of Lessons and Carols Services | With Chris Rosborough 54:20

7M ago54:20

54:20

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! This week, we have Dr. Chris Rosborough, Director of Choral Activities at Howard Payne University joins us on the show to discuss how Lessons and Carols services can fit into any church's holiday schedule. We also talk about the necessity to innovate in a variety of circumstances - including only having a s…

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76. Bob Phillips reflects on his teaching and career. 51:22

7M ago51:22

51:22

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I sit down with the legendary Bob Phillips, an innovator in string education, composer, and conductor, whose work has shaped the landscape of string music education. Known for his pioneering contributions to large group pedagogy and eclectic styles for strings, Bob has written over 25 book series an…

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75. Conversation with Tiffany Ou-Ponticelli 42:28

7M ago42:28

42:28

In this 75th episode, I sit down with Tiffany Ou-Ponticelli, an award-winning music educator and director of orchestras at Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto, CA. With a career spanning multiple prestigious institutions and a wealth of experience in both orchestra and choral music, Tiffany shares her insights on what it takes to build successfu…

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#42: The Power of Traditions in an Ensemble | With Jay Lester (Part 2) 41:53

7M ago41:53

41:53

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! In the second part of our interview with HSU Cowboy Band Director Jay Lester, we learn about the different traditions the he incorporates in his band - and how traditions in your own ensemble can bring a greater sense of community to the group. Download the show notes for this episode HERE. Follow our offic…

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#41: Through the Eyes of an Administrator | With Jay Lester (Part 1) 46:09

7M ago46:09

46:09

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! This week, former Fine Arts Director of Abilene ISD Jay Lester joins us to discuss the many roles that an administrator plays in music education. He also shows the key things that admin looks for when hiring, as well what you should and should not do during a music teacher job interview! Download the show n…

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After a much needed break, there's more content on the way! 4:53

8M ago4:53

4:53

This short trailer podcast briefly explains why I haven't created any new episodes in a few months. Good news is that there is more to come, so stay tuned!

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#40: How to Leave a Lasting Legacy | With Loyd Hawthorne 43:51

8M ago43:51

43:51

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! We had the honor of sitting down with Dr. Loyd Hawthorne to learn how he impacted the lives of countless students over the course of his career. From conducting all-state choirs to traveling across the state of Texas to recruit for his program, Dr. Hawthorne tells us the secret to making a difference in the…

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#39: Tone Sets the Tone for Success | With Mary Jane Phillips (Part 2) 47:48

8M ago47:48

47:48

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! In the second part of our interview with Mary Jane Phillips, we learn the story behind her ensembles' successes - and how great tone quality in her groups was the foundation of that success. She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how her "SOS" and "Choir Hacks" materials came to be - as well as a gli…

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#38: Middle School Music Hacks | With Mary Jane Phillips (Part 1) 50:51

9M ago50:51

50:51

Have a guest recommendation? Let us know! We are excited to welcome Mary Jane Phillips onto the show, who is a well-known mentor for choir directors across the country and co-author of the SOS sight-reading books. She is also the creator of “Choir Hacks,” her TPT store materials. Mary Jane joins us to discuss how to manage the middle school classro…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Classroom Composers Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen