Musicast

7.2: Learning Guitar with Dan from Moosiko

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 22 Oct 2026 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Dan Mascola, founder and CEO of Moosiko, to talk about how he started a music learning Ed Tech Company.

Moosiko has been a long time partner of F-flat Books and Sarah and Dan have much in common--from growing a business through the ups and downs of the pandemic to learning the same 90s song on the guitar as their first intro to the instrument.

Tune in to learn more about Moosiko and valuable lessons from the life of two entrepreneurs!

You can learn more about Moosiko and sign up for free lessons here:

https://moosiko.com/k12/

Episode 14: Musicast Meetup Year in Review- Reflect Behind to Look Ahead

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 17:37:30 GMT

This week’s episode is a good old-fashioned chat between Musicast hosts! Kevin and Marissa sit down to talk about all things teaching in the 2020 school year so far. Challenges, takeaways, and reflections of the educational model followed during the pandemic are the topic of conversation as they look at the year in review. To use the examination for positivity moving forward, they begin to explore what they are most looking forward to from January on. While not major fans of New Years’ Resolutions, it is always good to look back to inform what happens moving forward.

A discussion that warrants some deeper attention in the coming months that arose through the tail end of the episode emphasizes taking care of our students and ourselves. While 2021 allows us to take a breath and move forward with new life and energy in the remainder of the year, it is essential to realize that we are not out of any of the struggles posed to us this year. Particularly as music educators, we have the gift of connecting with our children through music. These connections allow us to assist them through some of the more difficult mental elements of this year.

Beyond our students, we as Musicast hope that you are taking care of yourselves as well. We know and sympathize firsthand that this year’s struggles extend beyond the classroom, and while many systems in school are looking out for the students, it is rarer for them to be watching for you as the educator. We hope you are taking care of yourself and encouraging you to connect with colleagues and professionals if you need support you may not be getting. To that same token, we would love to point you in the direction of F-Flat’s Winter THAW (Teacher Health and Wellness) virtual retreat. You can follow the link here for more information.

Thank you all for your continued support, and be well!

5.17: First Time for Everything: The Impact of "Haven't Yet"

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 22 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Ever think you can't do something? On this week's episode, Jenn sits down with Joe Stellino, director of choirs at CB South in Pennsylvania, to discuss the importance of a constantly evolving mindset. Changing the focus from "can't" to "haven't yet" is a very powerful way to grow students and teachers alike.

Episode 3.2: Has Anything REALLY Changed in Music Education? (With The Score)

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 07:14:50 GMT

In this collaborative episodes, Sarah sits down with Eric Jimenez and Justin Mclean from the Score Podcast to reflect on the past three years. They talk about areas of growth in music education and spaces that still need to see change. Learn more about Eric and Justin's podcast at @podthescore (IG) and you can learn more about their work at http://www.revivalmusicproject.org/.

Dan Berkery Interview

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 22:00:23 GMT

Broadway musician Dan Berkery speaks to us about being a pit musician in NYC and lends advice to students looking to get into the business!

What's your favorite Wednesday

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 13 May 2020 20:32:35 GMT

Students join us to discuss their take on video game music in Halo, World of Warcraft, and more!

Episode 3.1 : F-flat Books Retrospective

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 18:35:16 GMT

In this episode, Sarah Gulish and David Allen (co-founders and siblings behind F-flat books) sit down to talk about the past and future of F-flat Books. They share the initial vision for the company, reflect on the past three years, and share what they're excited about for the future. Plus, Sarah quizzes David on the music education knowledge he's acquired during his time at F-flat. Embracing a new format, Musicast is now a community-run podcast with forthcoming episodes from members of the F-flat community.

Technical Tuesday- Making Musical Moments in Games

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 12 May 2020 19:33:00 GMT

Guest/ Gamer Andy Buss joins the conversation describing how music impacts a player's experience while gaming.

Episode 3.13- Discussing the Sounds of Silence: Race in Music Education

Musicast Podcast — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:57:15 GMT

Part of the Indiana University Practicing Philosophy Collaboration Series: Brandon Magid with Dr. Deb Bradley

5.4: Bringing Learning to Life: The Power of Musical Theater in Education with Sasha Eisenberg

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 10:00:00 GMT

On this week’s episode of Musicast, we sit down with Sasha Eisenberg, one of the premier theater educators in Bucks County and an active Board Member of the Oscar Hammerstein Museum. With 30 years of experience in education, Sasha brings her vast experience and energy to this week’s conversation as we delve into how performing arts and theater can bring the traditional core subjects to life and discuss some of the unique challenges and opportunities that come along with directing a theater arts program!

Sasha Eisenberg

Oscar Hammerstein Museum Board Member & Educator

Sasha Eisenberg is an English and theatre educator with a Masters in Educational Leadership who has worked in Bucks County for 30 years. At Central Bucks East High School, Sasha served as an English teacher (1995-2001) and theatre director of the award winning Patriot Players, PA Thespian Troupe #6165 (1995-present). Sasha has directed over 50 plays and musicals and has assisted with numerous additional staff and student directed productions and special events. The Bucks County Playhouse has honored her for Outstanding Direction for multiple productions. In 2017, Sasha directed the award winning one-act, “I Never Saw Another Butterfly,” and was honored to join the company at the International Thespian Festival in Nebraska. In addition to producing high quality performances, with Sasha’s leadership, the club has successfully raised tens of thousands of dollars for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Sasha also has led numerous summer theatre programs including Diamond Ridge Day Camp, Briarwood Day Camp, and Delaware Valley University’s KidsU! In 2023, she co-founded Bucks County Theatrics (BCT) and looks forward to creating new theatrical opportunities for the Bucks County community. She is passionate about theatre arts education and thrilled to be a part of the mission to secure the legacy of Oscar Hammerstein. Sasha lives in Doylestown with her husband and enjoys visiting her three grown children.

Episode 3.14: Alain Barker on Innovation & Entrepreneurship in Higher Music Education

Musicast Podcast — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:57:25 GMT

Part of the Indiana University Music Innovation Collaboration Series. Visit blogs.iu.edu/jsominnovation for more information on all things related to the Innovation grants and OECD at Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music!

Musicast Episode 18: Kat Reinhert - Popular Music on Stage and in Class

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 01:50:38 GMT

Kat Reinhert is an experienced performer, educator and writer. She has taught courses in songwriting, private voice, theory, and popular music ensembles and is a sought after clinician in voice, songwriting and popular music pedagogy and a frequent consultant for burgeoning HPME degree programs. She is currently an Assistant Professor at Rider University and the previous Director of Contemporary for The Frost School of Music, University of Miami. As an author, she has a chapter on teaching voice in higher education The Bloomsbury Handbook of Popular Music Education and an article on songwriting for The Journal of Popular Music Education.

As a performer and songwriter, Kat has released four independent albums as well as sung on multiple projects and recordings. She has appeared with such noted artists as Enya, Raul Midon, Anat Fort, Lawry, Dave Cook, and Shayna Steele. Her sophomore album, Spark (2015), contains mostly original compositions, and has been touted as, “a work of great subtly and nuance,” and her newest release Home Movie (2017) features nine arranged standards and covers. Her fifth self-produced album, Dead Reckoning, is slated for release in February 2021.

Dr. Reinhert holds a BM in Jazz/Commercial Voice from The Manhattan School of Music, an MM in Jazz Performance/Pedagogy from The University of Miami, a PhD in Music Education from the University of Miami, specializing in Higher Popular Music Education and Contemporary Voice. Kat is the current President of the board for the Association for Popular Music Education.

Episode 10: Scott Sheehan- The Future of Music Education

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 18:00:00 GMT

A nationally recognized advocate and leader for the advancement of music education, Scott Sheehan is the Director of Bands and Music Department Chairperson at the Hollidaysburg Area Senior High School in Hollidaysburg, PA where he directs the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band and teaches AP Music Theory, Fundamentals of Guitar, and an elective course Rock, Rap, and Revolution!. During his tenure at Hollidaysburg, the school district has been named one of the Best Communities for Music Education in the United States by the NAMM Foundation for the past nine years.

In addition to his duties at Hollidaysburg, Mr. Sheehan serves as the President-Elect (2020-2022) for the National Association for Music Education and is the Program Chair for the NAfME All-National Honors Ensembles. He served as the NAfME Eastern Division President for from 2015-2017 where he served on the Executive Committee and Finance Committee. As an active member of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, Mr. Sheehan served as State President, as well as the District 6 Vice President and the District 4 President and Curriculum and Instruction State Representative. He coordinates the PMEA Leadership Academy, serves on the PMEA Mentoring Program Steering Committee, and is coordinator of the PMEA Model Curriculum & Assessment Steering Committee.

Mr. Sheehan is an Educational Clinician for Conn-Selmer and is a consultant for strategic planning and association development. He served as the NAfME Mentor for Band, and he was recognized at the state level as a Pennsylvania Keystone Technology Integrator by the Department of Education. He also served on the Educator Effectiveness Stakeholders Steering Committee for the Department of Education and served as a lead teacher for the implementation of the Student Learning Objectives initiative for PDE.

He is a member of Phi Beta Mu, the International Bandmasters Fraternity, was named Teacher of the Year in 2013 by the Hollidaysburg Area School District, and received the Outstanding Music Educator Award from Penn State University’s College of Arts and Architecture in 2016. Mr. Sheehan was a finalist for the 2019 GRAMMY Music Educator Award and is an active guest conductor and clinician throughout the country. He performs trumpet with the Hollidaysburg Community Band where he also serves as the group’s Associate Conductor. Additionally, he performs with the Altoona Brass Collective and the Blair County Brassworks for various community events and local church services. Scott holds a B.S. Degree in Music Education and a B.M. Degree in Music Marketing from Clarion University, and holds a Master’s Degree in Music Education from the Pennsylvania State University. Scott and his wife Amy are the proud parents of their daughter Ellie.

You can find more about Scott on his website at https://sheehanmusiced.wixsite.com/website

Episode 5: Young Band Directors Panel with Chris Ballentine Matt Collins, & Aaron Dugger- Finding and Remembering Your "Why"

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 20:24:58 GMT

Christopher Ballentine is proud to serve as the Director of Instrumental Music at Easton Area High School in Easton, Pennsylvania. In this position, Christopher oversees an instrumental music program of 370 students in grades 9 – 12. He is a proud graduate of Easton Area High School and former director, Ms. Carole Lutte. Prior to accepting the position at Easton, Christopher graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Penn State University in 2015. From 2015 – 2018, he taught as an instrumental music teacher in the North Hills School District in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 2018, Christopher was recognized as the Outstanding Young Music Educator by the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA). He also served for one year on the board for PMEA District I before accepting the position at Easton Area High School. For information on the instrumental music program at Easton Area High School, please visit their website at www.eahsmusic.org Find Chris by contacting him at ballentine@eastonsd.org. Matt Collins currently serves as Band Director in Duxbury Public Schools, located in southeastern Massachusetts. Here he teaches all things band related from elementary beginners to the DHS Wind Ensemble. Matt is a graduate of Penn State University where he earned his Bachelors in Music Education. There he studied trumpet with Dr. Langston J. Fitzgerald III and conducting from Professor Dennis Glocke, Dr. Eric Bush, and Dr. Carter Biggers. Duxbury Bands Twitter Duxbury Bands Instagram … or Email Matt at m7collins@gmail.com Aaron Dugger, a native of Pennsylvania, graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Music Education. While at Penn State, Mr. Dugger was a performing member of the Penn State Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Tuba/ Euphonium Ensemble, and the Penn State Marching Blue Band. He is a student of Velvet Brown, Dennis Glocke, Darrin Thornton, and Christopher Hornick. In 2016, Mr. Dugger relocated to Texas where he served as the Assistant Director of Middle School Bands at Melissa Middle School in Melissa Texas. After 2 years, Mr. Dugger moved to Melissa High School where he served as the Associate Director of Bands and the director of the Cardinal Marching Band. Mr. Dugger is an active clinician and drill writer for bands across the country. He serves on the brass staff for the 2019 DCI World Championship Silver Medalists, The Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps. Mr. Dugger was a performing member of the Bluecoats from 2013-2015. Propser ISD Bluecoats Drum Corps Find Aaron by contacting him at amdugger@prosper-isd.net

4.19: Finding Joy in Teaching with Jeanette Shorey

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:04:40 GMT

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Jeanette Shorey, veteran music teacher and promoter of joy in the classroom! Jeanette shares her story in music education and how she centers joy and stories in teaching young children. Listen to learn how community support and inspiration can help you keep the joy in teaching.

You can learn more about Jeanette at the links below:

https://storiesthatsing.net/

https://storiesthatsing.net/shop/

https://storiesthatsing.net/jointhehappymusicteacheracademy/

Max Embers Interview

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 07 May 2020 16:16:57 GMT

Max Embers talks about songwriting and production and gives us a sneak peak of his song "Get it Right!".

Episode 4.1: "All the Feels" with Sarah Gulish

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 17:45:09 GMT

How do you feel at the beginning of the school year? Happy to be back? Sad to be back? #allthefeels? In this solo episode, Sarah digs into the paradox of feelings and how we as teachers, can better support ourselves and our students when we view feelings as data and embrace conflicting feelings. This is the first of a whole season of new episodes for the 2023-2024 school year! Want to learn more about Musicast or F-flat Books? Visit www.fflat-books.com. [Intro music composed and recorded by F-flat author, Otto Gross]

Final Fantasy Friday

Musicast Podcast — Fri, 15 May 2020 17:58:54 GMT

Patrick Feher joins us to talk about Final Fantasy music!

Musicast Episode 15: F-flat Family Chat- Engagement and Motivation of ALL Students

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 01:40:59 GMT

This week, Marissa and Kevin welcome F-flat family members Sarah Gulish and Chelsea Dehner to the chat to discuss a tricky topic: motivation. In this context, the group refers to a guitar class that attracts students of all ability levels. Kevin kicks off the chat by explaining the situation that he and Marissa face at their home school while Sarah and Chelsea respond with helpful tips and tricks to rethink and revamp ways to engage and encourage students.

On this episode, find out how Sarah and Chelsea keep up with students who are already star guitar players and encourage them to continue their learning while fostering the learning of other students who might not even know how to hold a guitar! The discussion and teaching skills are applicable in to ALL ages, ensembles, subjects, and teachers! Be sure to listen in!

You can check out Sarah's Guitar Method HERE!

Chelsea Dehner is the Lower Moreland High School Choir Director in Huntingdon Valley, PA and has been a music educator for 12 years with experience in K-12 vocal/general and instrumental music. She has her Bachelor of Music in Music Education with a concentration in voice from Moravian College ’08 and her Master’s in Education from Cabrini College ’14. At Lower Moreland, Chelsea teaches Concert Choir, Piano Lab, Singing & Vocalization and Beginning Guitar. She leads the Honor, Treble and Bass Choirs, serves as the LMHS Drama Club Spring Musical Vocal and Pit Director, and holds the position of PMEA District 11 High School Professional Development Chair. You can find her performing with “The Hoppin’ John Orchestra,” “The Bux-Mont Camerata Chorus,” the LMHS Teacher Band, “Staff Infection,” or working at her new adventure of songwriting under the direction of Dr. Kat Reinhert. Chelsea is a certified Yoga Instructor ’18 and loves to laugh, spend time with friends and family, and play with her dog Lala!

Sarah Gulish holds a Ph.D in music education from Temple University. For over a decade, Sarah has taught secondary level music at Lower Moreland High School located in the state of Pennsylvania in the U.S.A. She also serves as Adjunct Professor of Music Education at Buffalo State University and Temple University. Her teaching centers on creativity and improvisation in courses focused on new music learners.

Sarah is an active researcher, writer, presenter, and clinician at the state, national, and international levels. She serves as the United States representative for the International Society of Music Education’s Popular Music Special Interest Group and is a past member of the National Association for Music Education’s IN-ovations Council. She also regularly tours and records as a rock musician with a variety of groups. Her experience as a popular musician has influenced her curricula and philosophy as a music educator and is detailed in her book, Creativity in the Classroom: An Innovative Approach to Integrate Arts Education. She works to provide authentic learning and performing experiences for adolescents both in and out of the classroom. Her research interests include informal learning, creativity, popular music pedagogy, and student autonomy.

Episode 6: A Nod to Marching Bands, Part 2 with Aaron Dugger- Balancing Process and Product

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 04 Nov 2020 02:48:37 GMT

High school band director Aaron Dugger returns to the podcast to discuss process and product in secondary marching bands. in the Texas UIL system, it can feel like your teaching to a test but Aaron offers productive insight as to how to take the system and make it work for students and programs of all kinds.

Aaron Dugger, a native of Pennsylvania, graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Music Education. While at Penn State, Mr. Dugger was a performing member of the Penn State Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Tuba/ Euphonium Ensemble, and the Penn State Marching Blue Band. He is a student of Velvet Brown, Dennis Glocke, Darrin Thornton, and Christopher Hornick.

In 2016, Mr. Dugger relocated to Texas where he served as the Assistant Director of Middle School Bands at Melissa Middle School in Melissa Texas. After 2 years, Mr. Dugger moved to Melissa High School where he served as the Associate Director of Bands and the director of the Cardinal Marching Band. The 2018 Cardinal Band appeared in 4A State Finals for the first time in school history. Under his guidance, the Melissa Middle School and High School non-varsity bands received consecutive Sweepstakes Awards. Most recently, Mr. Dugger served as an Assistant Band Director at Colleyville Heritage High School where the program made its first appearance at the UIL State Marching Contest in 20 years.

Mr. Dugger is an active clinician and drill writer for bands across the country. He serves on the brass staff for the 2019 DCI World Championship Silver Medalists, The Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps. Mr. Dugger was a performing member of the Bluecoats from 2013-2015. Additionally, Mr. Dugger served on the brass staff for the Academy Drum and Bugle Corps in 2016. He has also served as a consultant for the Melissa Winterguard, Gateway Winterguard, Melissa Indoor Percussion, and several other groups across North Texas.

Mr. Dugger’s professional affiliations include Phi Kappa Lambda, the International Tuba/Euphonium Association, the Texas Music Educators Association, and the Texas Bandmasters Association. He lives in Lewisville, Texas with his adorable boxer puppy, Sophie.

Propser ISD

Bluecoats Drum Corps

Find Aaron by contacting him at amdugger@prosper-isd.net

Episode 4.9: Ask Me Anything with Dr. Sarah Gulish

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 14:34:21 GMT

In this episode, Sarah answers listener questions about entrepreneurship and F-flat Books' publishing platform.

F-flat is opening submissions in just a couple of months (January 1st!). Listen in to learn more about how you can prepare your project for submission, how the F-flat Books team decides what to publish, and what you might not know about the publishing industry.

You can learn more about the submission process here:

https://fflat-books.com/documentation/author-packet/

And you can read through the F-flat Books culture deck at the bottom of our homepage:

https://fflat-books.com/

Episode 3.15: Music in Games Society: Presenting Game Music in Concert

Musicast Podcast — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:57:36 GMT

Episode 11: Dr. Christopher Azzara

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 01:44:33 GMT

Pianist, arranger, author, and educator, Christopher Azzara has made important contributions to advancing the understanding of creativity and improvisation in the music learning process. An innovator in music teaching and learning, Dr. Azzara is Professor of Music Teaching & Learning and Affiliate Faculty of Jazz Studies & Contemporary Media at the Eastman School of Music. Teaching and performing internationally, he is the author of numerous articles, arrangements, and books, including Developing Musicianship Through Improvisation and Jump Right In: The Instrumental Series (GIA). His arrangements for instrumental and vocal ensembles include A la nanita nana for choir and chamber orchestra or piano (Oxford), and Concert Selections for Winds and Percussion (GIA). His research and publications are concerned with meaningful relationships among listening, creating, improvising, reading, composing, and analyzing music in vocal and instrumental settings. Dr. Azzara's work appears in journals such as the Journal of Research in Music Education, the Bulletin of the Council for Research in Music Education, the Music Educators Journal, Early Childhood Connections, and in The New Handbook of Research on Music Teaching and Learning (MENC/Oxford), and Oxford Handbooks Online. He performs as a soloist and in various ensembles, including the Chris Azzara Trio, and has played on and produced many studio and educational recordings. In Rochester, he performs with freelance musicians, members of the Eastman School of Music Faculty, and members of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. An active teacher and clinician, he has presented and performed extensively throughout the United States, and in Canada, the Caribbean, France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Portugal, China, Japan, and Australia. He has presented clinics and workshops in a variety of settings, including TEDxRochester, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Carnegie Hall, and leading music schools in this country and abroad.

Christopher Azzara is a native of Virginia and attended public schools in Fairfax County. After receiving the Bachelor of Music degree from George Mason University, he taught instrumental music in the Fairfax County Public Schools and performed as a pianist in the Washington D.C. area. He later received a Master of Music and a Ph.D. in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music. Prior to joining the Eastman faculty, Dr. Azzara was a professor at The Hartt School of Music, Dance, and Theatre of the University of Hartford, CT.

https://christopherazzara.com

https://www.esm.rochester.edu/faculty/azzara_christopher/

6.4: The Musikfest Conference Unpacked with Dr. Marissa Guarriello, Grace Obert, The Foundry, and Natalie Reitzes

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 14:17:56 GMT

We're back with a new Musicast episode!

Shoutout to our incredible Music Service Learning intern, Natalie Reitzes, for curating and creating this episode.

How can we create spaces that connect music education, industry, and performance? In this episode, we learn all about the "Musikfest Music Industry Conference," an incredible event happening in August 2026 that combines music educators and music industry professionals in one, inspirational space.

Learn more about how you can get involved and join F-flat Authors in providing our kids with industry opportunities.

You can learn more about the conference and featured speakers here:

https://www.artsquest.org/musikfest-music-industry-conference/

Episode 3.4: Creativity with Large Ensembles

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 14:11:14 GMT

In this episode of Musicast, Orchestra director David Getz sits down with former Musicast co-host, Marissa Guarriello, to discuss creativity in the large ensemble classroom. David talks about the history of "The Composer's Guild," an after-school club he created as a first-year teacher to encourage creativity at his school. Both David and Marissa share their inspiration for creativity, how to develop a beginner's mindset, and helpful resources for anyone looking to incorporate more creativity into the classroom. You're going to want to take notes with this episode! You can learn more about David's work at https://www.davidgetzcreative.com/. And, be on the lookout for David's book in Spring 2023 only on F-flat Books!

5.2: Good Start, Fresh Start!

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 10:00:00 GMT

On this week's episode of Musicast, we're looking at starting off the school year on the right foot. Even after 18 starts, there is always something new and exciting about the beginning of the year. Getting off to a 'Good' Start can help define the year to come, and the challenge for some teachers is to make sure you are keeping it fresh for yourself, your students, and your colleagues around you!

5.10: New Perspectives: The Impact of Field Immersion Student Teaching on Student Educators

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 14:57:52 GMT

This week, Jenn had the opportunity to connect with Dr. Kathleen Melago to discuss her new book, "Field Immersion in Music: A Planning Guide." Together they discuss the unique experience an immersive program offers these student educators as well as the communities they partner with!

You can learn more about Kathleen's new book here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/field-experience-immersion-in-music-a-planning-guide/

6.2: Forging Connections and Study Buy-in with Anola Douglas

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 11:01:15 GMT

Sarah sits down with veteran choral educator, Anola Douglas, to discuss strategies for connecting with kids and getting them EXCITED about coming to music class! Her latest book, "Teaching the Apathetic Choir," breaks down some of Anola's favorite activities and mindset shifts that can bring joy back to the classroom.

You can learn more about her book and grab the eBook version here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/teaching-the-apathetic-choir/

Or the physical version here:

https://www.amazon.com/Teaching-Apathetic-Choir-Strategies-Unmotivated/dp/1639911499

Plus, check out the other resources Anola mentioned.

Rock Paper Scissors:

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Rock-Paper-Scissors-Rhythm-10111557

Choir workbook:

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Singers-Workbook-9770913

5.14: The Power of Digital Music Making with Gillian Desmarais

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 18:04:57 GMT

On this week's episode, Jen had the opportunity to connect with Gillian Desmarias to talk about the impact of digital music making and songwriting for non-traditional music students.

Gillian shares insights into her experiences as an educator and some of the tools and curriculum she leverages to provide an extraordinary opportunity to her students.

You can learn more about Gillian here:

https://www.soundteched.com/

6.6: Reaching All Students with Dr. Judith Jellison

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 13:07:44 GMT

Creating a learning environment where all students can engage and be successful is a key part of being an educator, but we don’t always know the best ways to achieve that goal. In this episode, we hear from Dr. Judith Jellison, an accomplished teacher and researcher in music and special education, about her experience working with students of all abilities and how to approach music education with every student's success in mind.

5.1: A New Chapter for Musicast

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 23:32:07 GMT

We are thrilled to kick off season FIVE (!!) of Musicast with a big announcement.

This season....(drum roll, please)...

...we are welcoming a new host!

We are so thrilled to have educator Jen Divasto join the Musicast team as the new host for season five. Listen to this episode to learn more about Jen, her work as an educator, and what she hopes to bring to the podcast!

Episode 26: Video Games but... jazz? With Charlie Rosen

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 00:15:20 GMT

Charlie Rosen is a Tony Award nominated and Obie Award winning composer, performer, arranger, orchestrator, music director, and producer whose music has been heard worldwide across many platforms and stages around the world. Recent credits include - Broadway: Some Like it Hot (Orchestrations), Be More Chill (Music Sup/Orchestrations), Moulin Rouge (Horn Arrangements), Prince of Broadway (Orchestrations), American Psycho (Assoc MD/Keys), The Visit (Guitar/Zither), Honeymoon in Vegas (Orchestrations), Cyrano de Bergerac (Composer), One Man, Two Guv’nors (Music Director, Bass), 13 The Musical (Guitars, Bass, Keys), Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson (Assoc. MD, Bass, addl. Orch). Off Broadway/Regional: A Strange Loop (Orchestrations) - Playwrights Horizons, Love in Hate Nation (Orchestrator) - Two River Theater, Broadway Bounty Hunter (Orchestrations) - Greenwich House Theater, A Legendary Romance (MD/Orch.) - Williamstown Theater Festival, Miss You Like Hell (Orchestrations) - The Public Theater, Misc. Multiple Shakespeare in the Park productions, The Black Suits - Center Theater Group (MD/Orch.), Chita Rivera: A Legendary Celebration - August Wilson (Orchestrations), A.D. 16 - The Olney Theater (Orchestrations). TV/Film/Podcasts: Here Today - Dir. Billy Crystal (Composer), The Presidents Show - Comedy Central (Composer) Maya and Marty - NBC (MD/Composer/Arranger), Best Time Ever w/NPH - NBC (Orchestrations and Track Production), High Maintenance - HBO (Addl Music), Hot White Heist dir. Alan Cumming - Audible (Composer). Touring/Live Events: The Boston Pops (Arranger), The New York Pops (Arranger), Take Me to the World - Tituss Burgess at Carnegie Hall (Conductor, MD, Orchestrator), The Jonathan Larson Project (Music Supervisor, Arranger, Producer), David Foster (Bass), Nicole Scherzinger (Bass), Band leader and arranger for The 8-Bit Big Band, and Charlie Rosen's Broadway Big Band in residency at 54 Below Video Games: Red Dead Redemption 2 (Additional Music), Spoonzland - NCSOFT (composer) www.charlierosen.com @CRosenMusic

5.7: Off the Podium: The Realities of Being a Music Teacher with Jessica Tosti

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Tune into this week's candid conversation between your host Jenn Divasto and her long-term friend and peer Jess Tosti for a heartfelt and honest look at their music educator journey. From their background as students and the formative influences that set them on their paths to discussing the gap between what music college told them to expect and the realities of being a first year teacher in the classroom.

5.8: Off the Podium: Navigating Equity in Music Education with Erin Zaffini

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 11:00:00 GMT

In episode two of our 'Off the Podium' series, Jenn sits down with Erin Zaffini, Director of Teacher Education at Longy School of Music, to discuss the development of the next generation of music educators and the challenge of navigating equity in music education.

Musicast Episode 19: Franklin Willis - The Power of Living Your Teacher Truth

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 04:14:02 GMT

For more than a decade, educator, and leader, Franklin Willis has served the students and families of the Metro Nashville Public Schools community. Through music, Willis has educated, mentored, and developed young minds to be forward thinking contributors to society. A servant leader specializing in authentic culturally relevant teaching, empowering student contributions, and developing teachers to reach their full capacity, Willis finds true joy when at the service of others.

As Elementary Music Coach for MNPS, he equips teachers with instructional support and necessary resources to strengthen their professional acumen and enhance their classrooms. This includes shepherding colleagues and teachers through the reality’s students are faced with around equity, inclusion and racism. Through his work, he has developed a passion in the cultivation of musicianship for young minds as every child has musical potential and deserves a music teacher who will see the best in them. Willis believes that music education is a vital tool to teach students about other cultures, create community, and inspire a love for learning. Willis consistently uses his network to provide opportunities for students to utilize their passion for music for all to see. This includes producing music videos and stadium performances at CMA Fest, a four-day music festival in Nashville, TN.

Willis has created and facilitated professional development sessions for music teachers of all grade levels sharing his unique and relevant teaching practices. He consistently collaborates with colleagues, community organizations, local businesses, colleges, and universities to advocate for the importance of music education in our schools as well as developing curriculum that will lead to higher engagement from students. Through his work Willis has received national recognition for his commitment to student learning, his passion for the profession and his innovative teaching practices. He is a three-time recipient of the CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence Award. ('16, '18, '19).

Willis is a children’s book author and graduate of the University of Memphis with a Bachelor of Music Education with an emphasis in Choral Music in 2009. In 2012, he earned the Master of Education Degree in Nonprofit Leadership from Belmont University. Most recently Willis completed the Education Specialist Degree with an emphasis in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Technological University.

To learn more about Mr. Willis, go visit his website at THIS LINK or www.fwillismusic.com

Episode 3.10: The Impact of Music Education Publishing Part II

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 12:43:16 GMT

How does the act and art of publishing impact the lives of authors? In this second half of a two part series, Rosie Wilson sits down with F-flat Authors Michelle Rose and Nate Holder to discuss their personal experiences with publishing. This conversation is inspiring and thought-provoking. Learn More about Nate and his publishing company at The Why Books UK (https://www.thewhybooks.co.uk/) and learn more about Michelle Rose at her site (https://themusicalrose.com/). And, if you're interested in submitting a project for consideration at F-flat Books, check out submission info at our site (https://fflat-books.com/documentation/author-packet/).

Christopher Tin Interview

Musicast Podcast — Fri, 15 May 2020 17:26:10 GMT

Video game composer Christopher Tin joins us to talk about Calling All Dawns, his upcoming work, and what it's like to write for video games!

Episode 3.7: Surviving December as a Music Teacher

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:37:43 GMT

Are you feeling the December squeeze? As we head into one of the busiest months of the year, how can we embrace care and continue to pursue rest and renewal? In this cross-posted episode from the Afternoon Ti Podcast, F-flat Author sits down with Jessica Grant to talk about practical strategies for managing busy months as a music teacher. From concert preparation to meal preparation, this episode is full of actionable ideas that can transform your life balance. Both Jessica and Beth are advocates for teacher wellbeing and will be hosting an IN-PERSON wellness retreat in February 2023 in Dallas, TX. You can learn more here: https://fflat-books.com/winter-thaw-2023-teacher-health-and-wellness/

4.21: Following Curiosity as a Musician and Educator with Yeshima

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 17:41:33 GMT

In this episode, Sarah sits down with author, musician, and educator: Yeshima! Yeshima has been an F-flat author for years and is currently doing some amazing work in the areas of project-based learning and therapeutic drumming. In this episode, Yeshima shares about their past experiences and how they started music as a clarinetist (and got kicked out of the band!!) and gradually found their way to percussion.

Now, Yeshima has provided a ton of resources for teachers looking to connect students with work that impacts the world. You can learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode at the link below:

Drum Smart Website:

https://drumsmartllc.com/

Drum Smart Insta:

instagram.com/drumsmart101

Project Based Learning Resource:

https://fflat-books.com/product/project-based-learning/

Musicast Episode 16: Margaret Harrigan- The Importance of Music Play

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 02:11:56 GMT

Maggie Harrigan is currently a general music and chorus teacher at Fox Hill Elementary in Burlington, MA. She graduated from Gordon College in 2013 in Music Education and recently graduated from Eastman School of Music with a Masters in Music Education. Her research focuses on playful learning in music in elementary age children. She has shared her work and presented at several conferences including the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association and the upcoming online 2021 NAfME Research Conference.

In addition to teaching in the public school setting, Maggie also accompanies various local ensembles and teaches private piano lessons. She is an avid runner completing several marathons in 2020 raising money for charity as a participant. She enjoys hiking and camping with her husband David when she is not focused on her teaching and music!

If you want to contact Maggie, you can reach her at mharrigan90@gmail.com.

In her podcast discussion, she mentions several resources that you can access via the following citations!

Berger, A. A., & Cooper, S. (2003). Musical play: A case study of preschool children and parents. Journal of Research in Music Education, 51( 2), 151-165. doi:10.2307/3345848

Elkind, D. (2007). The power of play: Learning what comes naturally. Philadelphia, PA: Da Capo Pres.

Koops, L. H. & Taggart, C. C. (2011). Learning through play: Extending an early childhood music education approach to undergraduate and graduate music education. Journal of Music Teacher Education 20(2), 55-66. doi:10.1177/1057083710373578

Valerio, W. H. (1997). Surprise! Music development means music play for adults as well as

children. Early Childhood Connections, 3 (4), 7-14.

Songs in Their Heads

Episode 4.7: Native American Music in the Music Classroom with Michelle McCauley Bobadilla

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 13:36:04 GMT

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Michelle McCauley Bobadilla to talk about the state of Native American music education. As a long-time music educator and a member of the Pyramid Lake Paiute tribe in Nevada. Michelle provides insight on how educators should approach learning about and tapping into their local Native Nations and what not to do when it comes to Native American Heritage month.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Indian Country Today:

https://ictnews.org/

Powow Livestreams:

https://www.youtube.com/@Powwows

Michelle's YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleMcCauley

You can also connect with Michelle on Instagram (@thaswrong) and follow F-flat Books to learn more about her forthcoming book, "Kammu, Kammu."

Episode 3.8: Preparing Future Music Industry Leaders

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 12:23:45 GMT

How do you become a talent buyer for a venue? Or, what is it like to be a programmer for a music festival? In this episode, Marissa Guarriello sits down with Shayna Super, Anne Sturm, and Alli Poczak to talk about their careers at Arts Quest in Bethlehem. They describe the process of learning the music industry and what they wished they had learned while they were in school! This episode is great for anyone interested in the inner workings of the music industry and how to help prepare students to be future music industry leaders. You can learn more about Arts Quest at https://www.artsquest.org/ and learn more about Steel Stacks at https://www.steelstacks.org/ and https://www.musikfest.org/.

Musicast Episode 24: Musicast Crew Chat - A Music in Our Schools Wrap-Up

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:41:39 GMT

The Musicast Crew, Kevin, Marissa, and Maggie, wrap up Music in Our Schools Month by asking each other... what's next? The three discuss, from their points of view, what the future of music education might look like, the direction they think it needs to head in, and why music is important. How do we use music? How do others use and perceive our classes? How has COVID altered people's perceptions and are we headed in the right direction?

These are all questions they aim to tackle but *spoiler alert* there is no simple answer. However, the first step is to discuss with others, listen, and learn which is what this episode aims to do!

Enjoy!

4.16: Purpose and The Why behind the Work Part II

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 23:16:21 GMT

In this episode, Sarah continues to chat with Coty about the why behind the work. They talk about finding your purpose and pouring your energy into spaces that feel authentic while recognizing that what we share publicly is not often what we experience privately.

How do we return to the passion and joy found in music and the things that light us up as musicians? Listen and be inspired by Coty’s story and learn why she wrote “When I Grow Up” and how she’s actively advocating for children.

You can support Coty and learn about her book, “When I Grow Up,” here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/when-i-grow-up/

Check out Coty’s website:

https://www.cotyravenmorris.com/

You can get the free Black History Month Heritage Guide here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/black-history-month-heritage-month-guide-2024/

5.11: New Perspectives Part II

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In Part II of "New Perspectives," Jenn sits down with Dr. Kathleen Melago and Dr. Jonathan Helmick, plus four college students working in field immersion experiences.

Hear how hands-on learning opportunities can help shape experiences for pre-service music educators.

You can learn more about Kathy's book here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/field-experience-immersion-in-music-a-planning-guide/

5.9: Engineering Excellence: A Sit Down with the Chief Recording Engineer for 'The President's Own' United States Marine Corp Band

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:00:00 GMT

On this week's episode, Jenn sits down with the Chief Sound Engineer for 'The President's Own' United States Marine Corp Band, Gunnery Sergeant Mike Ducassoux, to discuss how his journey in Music Education led him down the path to sound engineering.

We delve into the path he took and what it takes to work in such a high profile and ever changing environment with an elite group of musicians.

Links mentioned in this episode:

John Williams & "The President's Own"
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLA7no0L9zTk5-Mvyc5fBA8M1FLVg9ZABZ

What Dreams May Come

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_n8mneRqiDUJLI3waI6pV8T3icN9lzbXPE

Episode 12: Gold Revere- Success Through Remote Music Production

Musicast Podcast — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 17:56:57 GMT

NEW EP "LAVENDER" OUT TODAY! 12/18/2020

Hip hop/R&B duo Gold Revere, Akash Gururaja and Ian Crumley, started making music in Ian’s basement in 2017 before making a major splash on the scene this year with their viral track “Goldfish Crackers.” What started as an experimental summer project in their hometown of Cedar Rapids, Iowa quickly gained traction thanks to the duo’s vibey mix of hip hop and R&B influence, classical training in piano, violin, and vocals, a knack for staying on the pulse of social media trends, and Ian’s production acumen matched by Akash’s lyrical intuition.

After releasing three DIY EPs and close to a dozen stand alones, the college freshmen came out with their single “Goldfish Crackers.” The infectiously quirky ear candy made of Ian’s whistle-meets-country-trap hip-hop beat and Akash’s playful lyrics struck a nerve on TikTok where the associated #GoldfishDance began trending. Akash sings: “Goldfish crackers when I'm tryna fake a smile, and then black coffee when I'm tryna walk a mile. Red velvet cake is when I'm thinking bout the aisle and DOTS when I feel I haven't seen her in a while.” Using popular snack foods for deeper metaphorical meaning, the song stuck. “It’s a love song,” says Akash. “A different way to say you miss someone. Looking at something through another lens. Plus, everyone loves Goldfish Crackers.” Eventually the phenomena drew the attention of Pepperidge Farms who went on to create an official Goldfish Crackers TikTok account dedicated entirely to a stop motion Goldfish character performing the animated dance tutorial. The song’s success caught the interest of Sony Arista who subsequently signed the duo.

Ian and Akash first met in 9th grade choir and quickly became close friends and performed together throughout high school in show choir, all state choir, school musicals, orchestra and the like. Both having grown up in diverse musical households - Ian’s mother a former opera singer, his father a professional drummer in a jazz band, while Akash was raised on Indian music and started piano lessons at age four and violin at age nine - Gold Revere boasts a deeply complex musicality. Their shared musical lexicon and approachable, goofy personalities make the duo an alluring anomaly. Intrigued by intricate song structure and genre fluidity, taking notes from acts like Tyler The Creator, Kanye West, and Jacob Collier, Gold Revere find their niche with an impressively unique sound. “We want to make music with meaning that sounds great and is fun,” says the duo. “Using innovative sampling, we’d like to keep expanding and pulling in different genres to appeal to the widest variety of people.”

After performing as Gold Revere at prom followed by a summer tour, Ian and Akash headed off to college but continued to make music sending tracks back and forth recording in their dorm rooms. “I make a beat then send it on a private SoundCloud link to Akash,” says Ian. “If it passes the ‘garbage or fire test’ I start writing lyrics and we go from there,” says Akash. They both laugh. Now halfway through their sophomore year, Akash a neuroscience/pre-med major at Vanderbilt and Ian a mathematics major at Iowa State, Gold Revere welcomes a new EP titled Lavender set to release on December 18th.

Follow Gold Revere:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldrevere

Twitter: https://twitter.com/goldrevere

Music: https://fanlink.to/goldrevere

Lavender:

https://goldrevere.lnk.to/Lavender

Episode 2.8: Ian Rucker- The Power of 'And'

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 19:13:23 GMT

Ian Rucker is a baritone from Oshkosh, WI, under the tutelage of Carol Vaness. Ian graduated with his Masters Degree in Vocal Performance from Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music last spring. He is coming to Palm Beach Opera after a summer as a Renée Fleming Artist at the Aspen Summer Music Festival. He lived in Aspen, Colorado for two months and was featured in weekly masterclasses, concerts, and recitals. It was there that he was able to work with many well-renowned performers, coaches, and conductors in the opera, classical music, and musical theatre community.

Ian was an avid performer at the Jacobs School of Music, being featured as Count Almaviva in The Marriage of Figaro in 2019, Figaro in The Barber of Seville in 2020, and most recently Papageno in The Magic Flute in September of 2021. It was at his undergrad at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, under the instruction of Kenneth Pereira, that he found his love for the spotlight. He performed roles in both Opera and Musical Theatre productions: The title roles in both Don Giovanni and Sweeney Todd, Officer Lockstock in Urinetown, and Ernst Ludwig in Cabaret.

Within the past year, Ian has had some success in vocal competitions. He was awarded an Encouragement Award in the Metropolitan Opera National Council Audition - WI District, and took 1st place in the James Toland Vocal Arts Competition.

He is glad to be back on stage performing for an audience. After such a hard year, it is such a breath of fresh air to see the arts alive and well!

You can check out Ian's website by clicking here!

Episode Music; Don Giovanni, K527 - Ouvertura-1248; Gunther Hasselmann

Off the Podium: A Spouse's Perspective

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:24:06 GMT

This episode of Musicast is a little different and a little more personal as Jen is joined by her husband Matt to talk about what it's like to be a spouse of a music teacher.

From navigating concert season to the ups and downs of advocating for music education to the crazy schedules, this episode gives a look behind the curtain at good ways to support your music educator through it all. Hope you enjoy the last episode of this season!

Mario Monday- 8 bit and Chip Tune Music

Musicast Podcast — Mon, 11 May 2020 18:23:13 GMT

Kevin and Marissa kick off video game week starting where it all began- Mario and 8 bit music!

4:26: Reaching DHH Students in the Music Classroom with Adam Chitta

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 14 May 2024 18:09:09 GMT

It’s the second to last Musicast episode for the 2023-2024 school year! In this episode, I sit down with music educator, Adam Chitta. Adam is the founder of “The Chitta Sound,” an organization that provides tools and professional development for teachers to help better reach their deaf and hard of hearing students.

After receiving a hearing loss diagnosis as a child, Adam was able to become a successful musician (alongside his twin brother!), music educator, and advocate for students like him. In this episode, he shares his story and how he had to advocate for himself in order to pursue a career in music.

You can learn more about Adam at his website:

https://thechittasound.com/

And, if you're in Texas, check out his workshop this summer through TBA:

Friday, July 26th from 5:00-6:00 PM. Deaf Students CAN be Successful in the Band Classroom and Marching Field!

Finally, Adam provides in-person and virtual visits to observe and discuss DHH accommodations for students. He also provides professional development through his website. Use the contact form on there to get in touch!

6.1: Behind the Pages: The Story Behind the Stories with F-flat Publishing Assistant Tayler Hill

Musicast Podcast — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 01:17:55 GMT

It's our first episode of season 6!

Join Dr. Sarah Gulish, co-founder and CEO of F-flat Books, in conversation with publishing assistant Tayler Hill. Sarah and Tayler talk about the publishing industry, how Tayler got involved in writing and editing, and what they're suppperrrrr excited for this fall (Hint: it's a book that will make you laugh and cry).

Shoutout to Vicky Weber for introducing us to Tayler and to all of the authors who have contributed to our first anthology!

Links Shared in the episode:

Tayler's Instagram: @folkandtalespress @taylerhillauthor

Vicky's Instagram: @vickyweberbooks @athomeauthor

Websites:

https://www.folkandtales.com/

https://www.folkandtales.com/lead-collection

https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/TheGildedPagePress

https://www.athomeauthor.com/

Episode 2.1: Mickey Smith Jr. - New Year, New Teacher Outlook

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:07:52 GMT

Educator. Encourager. Musician. Those are just a few ways that some would describe me. As a recipient of Grammy Music Educator Award for 2020, I have inspired both children and teachers through my motivational mixture of music and message. Through my love for the saxophone, I blend the roles of educator and entertainer to create a dynamic educational experience that entertains, educates and elevates everyone to excellence. I am dedicated to helping educators discover their sound. No matter what, the classroom challenge may be I help encourage others to keep on going.

Learn More at https://mickeysmithjr.com/about

Sound 180 Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/157225868266013

4.24: Creative Approaches to Teaching Beginners with Crystal Boyack

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 17:49:02 GMT

Some of the best teaching ideas stem from identifying problems or gaps in current methods. In this podcast episode, Crystal Boyack talks about just that! Through struggling to find a beginning method that worked for her string players (including her own daughter), she decided to create her own, and "Wee Violin" was born!

Crystal describes her approach to learning to play and love music, and how she incorporates a variety of musical cultures from day one.

You can learn more about Crystal's work below:

https://www.crystalboyackmusicstudio.com/

Grab her books here:

https://www.crystalboyackmusicstudio.com/weeviolin

And, follow her on instagram:

@crystalboyackmusicstudio

Episode 1: Williams Goldsmith - Dreams Don't Work Unless You Do

Musicast Podcast — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 13:05:10 GMT

Williams Goldsmith is a 17-year-old guitarist, producer, and singer from Massachusetts. He started out playing rock and metal music, but in recent years has gotten more into pop, R&B and hip-hop. He has independently released an EP and 3 singles of varying styles, reflecting his varying music taste. He hopes to innovate and one day leave a lasting impact on the music world. Williams attends Newton North High School and his jazz band/music teacher is Richard Labedz. In this episode, we talk about Williams' influences, his transition into popular music, how he hopes to “make-it” in the future, and his current work! This episode is an inspiration for teachers, students, and musicians of all ages! Catch Will on the following social media platforms! Tik Tok: @williamstgoldsmith YouTube: Williams Goldsmith Twitter: @williamstgold All streaming platforms search: Williams Goldsmith

Episode 3.11: Bringing the Music Room Alive with Otto Gross and Zachary Himelhoch

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 19:07:20 GMT

How do you show children the magic of music-making? And, how do you introduce instruments in a way that's exciting and engaging? In this episode, Otto Gross and Zachary Himelhoch sit down to talk about all things music! Through personal experiences and stories from the classroom, Zach and Otto share engaging ways to reach students and talk about their new release, "The Night the Music Room Came Alive." Listen in and learn more about Zach and Otto's work at www.fflat-books.com

Episode 4.6: Autumn Songs and the Creative Process

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 16:04:33 GMT

In this week's episode, we sit down with Stephanie Leavell of Music for Kiddos to talk about some of our favorite topics: Songwriting, Autumn Songs, and how to connect with kids. Stephanie shares how she embraces the creative process of songwriting, how she's found her voice as a songwriter, and what keeps her true to herself as an artist and educator.

Links from this episode:

Join Stephanie's "Song of the month" club: https://www.musicforkiddos.com/newsletter

Learn about the Music for Kiddos Membership:

https://www.musicforkiddos.com/community

Check out "The Shy Little Monster" Book:

https://fflat-books.com/product/shy-little-monster/

4.13: The Best Gifts You Can Give Yourself

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 19:06:57 GMT

Many of us are approaching holiday breaks with MUCH NEEDED days off of teaching. But, how can we ensure that our time is spent in ways that are truly restorative and help us approach 2024 with a sense of grounding? In this episode, Sarah shares four things you can give yourself over winter break to find restoration.

You can read the corresponding blog post to this episode here:

https://fflat-books.com/last-minute-gift-guide-for-the-overwhelmed-music-teacher/

Also, this is the LAST Musicast episode for 2023! Thank you so much for listening and being part of this community.

Is there a topic you'd like us to cover in 2024? Or, a person we should interview? Please send ideas and nominations (including yourself!) to sarah@fflat-books.com.

5.6: Music and STEM? That's just Bananas! A sit down with Javel Perriel

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 11:00:00 GMT

On this week's epsiode of Musicast, Jen sits down with Javel Perriel to talk about his passion for blending music and science with the Makey Makey. Javel is the author of 'Music is Bananas' an amazing passion project he's put together to help music educators cross curricular boundaries into the area of STEM using the Makey Makey!

Check out Javel's book here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/music-is-bananas/

You can learn more and follow Javel on Instagram:

@mr.perriel

@music_is_bananas

Musicast Episode 20: Updates and News!

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 18:36:01 GMT

Marissa and Kevin are taking this week off to finish a few exciting things to bring your way during the month of March! They are putting the final touches on their book Hustle to the Start, which will be releasing on F-Flat Books on March the 10th! They are also getting ready for a highlight reel of educators and their students to celebrate Music in Our School's Month. Take a listen to this short update for some more information!

4.10: The Why and the Work with Dr. Shane Colquhoun and Jasmine Fripp

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 17:17:27 GMT

In this episode, Dr. Shane Colquhoun sits down with Jasmine Fripp to talk about two important areas of music education: finding our "why" and how to put in meaningful work that impacts many.

This conversation is heartfelt, inspiring, and encouraging.

You can learn more about Shane and his book, Producers of Pop, here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/the-producers-of-pop/

And, learn about Jasmine Fripp's release, Carmine's Affirmations, here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/carmines-affirmations-song-and-classroom-resources/

4.22: Embracing Arabic Popular Music with Ashley Shabankareh

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:27:52 GMT

In this episode, we sit down with musician, author, educator, and all-around incredible human Ashley Shabankareh. Ashley shares about her life and work and how she collaborated on our latest release with longtime friend Mia Ibrahim.

Mia tragically lost their life in December 2023 and “Embracing Arabic Popular Music” is a resource that honors and celebrates their work in music education. Learn more about how this project developed and how Ashley and others are continuing to find ways to encourage culturally responsive teaching that honors and elevates all cultures, not just a select few.

You can learn more about Mia and Ashley’s book on the F-flat Books website.

And, connect with Ashley here:

https://www.ashleyshabankareh.com/about

5.12: Keeping it Current: Teaching "Modern" Music with Kevin Longwill

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:00:00 GMT

On this week's episode, Jen had the opportunity to sit down with Kevin Longwill, one of Yamaha's '40 under 40' to discuss teaching 'Modern Music' and the impact of broadening music education horizons to appeal to non-traditional music students.

You can learn more about Kevin and his upcoming Modern Music invitational at Abington Senior High School here:

https://www.m3asd.com/invitational

Musicast Episode 23: Emily Desmond - Bringing the Real World Into the Classroom

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 15:58:50 GMT

Lowell, MA native singer-songwriter Emily Desmond has been active in the New England music scene since the age of 13. She has grown from performing with just a small acoustic guitar to working as a professional vocalist and singer-songwriter.

She began her education at Berklee College of Music in 2012, graduating in 2016 with a B.M in Songwriting with a focus in vocal technique. Here, she honed her craft and studied with multiple internationally acclaimed artists, writers, and professors.

After the release of her 5-track EP Commencement, Emily received much praise and response from the Boston singer-songwriter scene for her lyrics, which range from witty & honest, to gut-wrenching & sincere. As well as recognition from the Lowell Sun and Boston Magazine. Emily has been awarded an honorable mention for Best Folk Song from the USA Songwriting Competition and nominated for Best Female Artist by the International Acoustic Music Awards.

Today, Emily continues to perform and writes songs for her own repertoire and is hired to write a variety of songs for advertisements, entertainment media, and special occasions. She currently teaches private voice and guitar lessons at DW Music Lessons, and is a Music Specialist at a private school for Special Education in Waltham, MA.

YOU CAN VIEW EMILY'S SITE HERE

WANT LESSONS FROM EMILY? CLICK HERE!

You can find Emily's social media here!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/emilydesmond

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilydesmondmusic

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilydesmondmusic

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/emilydesmondmusic

Episode 3.6: More Than A Music Teacher with Alice Tsui and Franklin Willis

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 13:36:58 GMT

What does it mean to be "more than a music teacher"? And, how do we show up for our students in ways that are authentic and help them connect with us as humans? Join Alice Tsui and Franklin Willis in this inspiring conversation examining the lives we lead both in and out of the classroom. Both Alice and Franklin are F-flat authors and visionary board member at F-flat Books. In this episode, they dive into questions related to identity and belonging with ideas and inspiration for music educators at all career stages. You can follow Alice and Franklin on Instagram (@musicwithmissalice and @fwillismusic) and get Franklin's new book, "More Than A Music Teacher" at https://fflat-books.com/product/more-than-a-music-teacher/.

4.18: Cultivating Empathy in the Classroom with Daniel Rivera

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 20:38:44 GMT

How do we cultivate a sense of understanding and empathy among students? Can the music classroom be a space where we have hard discussions and unpack big emotions?

In this episode, Daniel Rivera (author of "Empathy") describes his journey in music education and how his classroom has become a space to feel and share emotions: big or small.

Listen and learn about the ways that you can help students learn to empathize with each other in tangible ways.

Resources shared in this episode:

You can find Daniel's book here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/empathy/

Want to learn more about our writing cohort starting in March? Check it out:

https://learn.fflat-books.com/writing-rescue-kidlit-lab/#

And, if you haven't downloaded our Black History Month guide yet, you can still get it for free:

https://fflat-books.com/product/black-history-month-heritage-month-guide-2024/

Episode 8: The Liberty High School Bagpipe Corps - Student Leadership on an International Stage

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 20:12:51 GMT

Established in 1926, in Bethlehem Pennsylvania, the Liberty High School Band was led for 40 years by the first Director of Music, Dr. Joseph Ricapito. During his tenure the band performed at President Truman’s Inaugural Parade and the 1948 World’s Fair. When He retired, Ron Sherry, a Liberty alumnus, assumed the baton and and revamped the band’s image . In 1966 he introduced the Grenadier theme. In 1976, the band provided music for England's Queen Elizabeth II’s presentation of the Bicentennial Bell. The Grenadiers became the first high school band in the world to perform in London’s Royal Albert Hall. Following Sherry’s retirement, Liberty’s third director, Greg MacGill began his tenure. Under his direction, the band would perform 4 times in England and march in the 2009 Rose Parade. Now under the direction Liberty alumnus, Kevin Long, the Grenadiers' most notable performances have included the 125th Rose Parade, the 2019 Hollywood Christmas Parade, the 2016 Waikiki Holiday Parade and as part of the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor.

You can find more on the band at their website: https://lhsgbopc.org/

You can also find them on Twitter or Facebook

The LHS Band Twitter: @LHSGB
The LHS Band Facebook
Band Parent Organization: @lhsbandparents
Band Parent Organization Facebook
Liberty High School: @LibertyHigh
Liberty High School Website
Bethlehem Area School District Website

5.5: A Chat with 'Piano Pete' of Echoland Studios

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 10:00:00 GMT

For this week's episode of Musicast, Jen has sits down with 'Piano Pete' Favilla of Echoland Studios in New York City. During this high-energy conversation they talk composing, musical influences, and his passion for making music accessible through Echoland Studios.

You can checkout Echoland Studios at the link below:

https://www.echolandstudios.com/

Episode 4.2: Celebrating Latinx Heritage Month in the Music Classroom

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Sarah Gulish sits down with Wanda Vasquez Garcia to discuss celebrating cultures in the music classroom. A teacher at a bilingual school, Wanda believes in centering many cultures throughout the school year while connecting students with specific cultures each month. From activating community partnerships to moving and singing with kids, Wanda shares practical strategies for expanding children's experiences with music making. She also talks about her book, "From Across the Street," and how she has used this work to preserve folk music from the Dominican Republic and provide a story to accompany the music that means so much to her and her family.

You can learn more about Wanda and her book at :

https://fflat-books.com/product/from-across-the-street/

5.13: Onward and Upward: The Branching Path of a Music Educator with Dr. Marissa Guarriello

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT

This week, Jen sits down with Dr. Marissa Guarriello to talk about the impact that mentorship and challenging horizons have had on her work. Through her journey, Dr. Guarriello has experienced music education in many facets: first as a student, then as a music educator, and on into graduate work and teaching at the collegiate level.

Listen to learn more about Marissa (the first host and founder of this very podcast!) and head to the link below to learn about her new book, "Onward and Upward":

https://fflat-books.com/product/onward-and-upward-paperbook/

4.27: The Future of F-flat Publishing and Enharmonic Books with Sarah Gulish and David Allen

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 22 May 2024 12:52:44 GMT

It's the FINAL EPISODE of Musicast, season four!

Wow. It's hard to believe that we've had four seasons of engaging conversations on music and music education. In this final episode of Musicast, I sit down with my brother David (co-founder of F-flat Books) to talk about the next season of F-flat.

Listen and learn about:

🎸The why behind our new children's book (Rosie Rocks!!)🎸 How we decided to move into print and wider distribution

🎸 The process of learning new things while trying to stay true to the F-flat values of equitable practices.

Huge shoutout to @vickyweberbooks who has been FULLY INSTRUMENTAL in helping us make this big, scary leap in our business. Vicky has made this process so much easier.

Second huge shoutout to @fwillismusic . "Edward's Rhythm Sticks" was the first children's book we ever created in 2020, and his willingness to take a chance on our tiny company changed the trajectory of our work forever.

We are closing the door on our first year of running F-flat Books full-time and couldn't be more excited about what's coming. So, if you've been supporting our journey and our work, YOU HAVE MADE THIS POSSIBLE!! Thank you.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Order our book!

https://fflat-books.com/featured-titles/rosie-rocks/#

Learn more about Vicky Weber:

https://www.vickyweber.com/

Learn more about Franklin Willis:

https://www.fwillismusic.com/

Learn more about our mom's business!

https://www.facebook.com/Petghans/

6.5: Woodwind Methods Practice Book with Dr. Kathleen Melago

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Dr. Melago discusses her new Woodwind Methods Practice book--a book written specifically for students and educators to use in the practice room to build their fundamental skills on each woodwind instrument.

Dr. Melago shares why she saw a need for this book and how her years of teaching various structures of woodwind methods courses informed its content.

You can find Dr. Melago's Woodwind Methods Practice book on F-flat books in digital form, and is also available in print!

https://fflat-books.com/product/woodwind-methods-practice-book/

Episode 3.5: The 10 Things No One Tells You About Being A Music Teacher

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 12:29:16 GMT

Join F-flat author, Jessica Peresta, in this episode of Musicast where she unpacks a chapter from her book, "Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music." This episode is full of wisdom and important reminders about the work that we do as music educators and why it matters. You can find out more about Jessica at her website (www.thedomesticmusician.com) and at her podcast, "The Elementary Music Teacher Podcast." Jessica is also helping us coordinate and launch our first professional development site at F-flat Books. Stay tuned for more info in early 2023!

4.15: Musicianship and The Why behind the Work

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 21:06:19 GMT

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Grammy-nominated educator Coty Raven Morris in a powerful two-part series on the why behind our work as musicians and educators. In this first half, Coty breaks down why we need to examine barriers in music education and how we, as educators, can effort to meet the needs of more students.

You can learn more about Coty at her website:

https://www.cotyravenmorris.com/

And, check out Coty's book on the F-flat Books website:

https://fflat-books.com/product/when-i-grow-up/

Grab the FREE Black History Month Heritage Guide here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/black-history-month-heritage-month-guide-2024/

Episode 2.10: Dr. Amanda Draper- Getting Started with Special Music Education

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 19:14:00 GMT

Amanda R. Draper is an Assistant Professor of Music Education at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music. Prior to her appointment she was part of the Music Education faculty in the Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University. Her academic interests include investigating musical experiences for diverse learners with a focus on music and autism research, Disability Studies in music, and teacher preparation for special music education. Dr. Draper has presented regionally, nationally, and internationally and has articles published in the Journal of Research in Music Education and Music Educators Journal. A general music specialist, she previously taught elementary and middle school general music for 10 years, most recently for Chicago Public Schools. Dr. Draper holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Coe College in Cedar Rapids IA and a master’s degree and PhD in music education from Northwestern University.

Recommended Resources from the episode:

Including Everyone by Judith Anne Jellison

Books by Dr. Alice Hammel

Musicast Episode 22: Kevin Coyne - an Innovator's Mindset

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 13:25:33 GMT

Kevin Coyne, middle school band teacher, joins us to talk about what a forward thinking middle school music program looks like!

Episode 4.8: What I Wish I'd Known My First Year Teaching with Jessica Grant

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 14:47:49 GMT

In this episode, Jessica Grant sits down to reflect on lessons she's learned during her 20+ year career as an educator. Whether you're a new teacher or have been in the classroom for years, Jessica's reflections are rooted in concrete ways to connect with care and community for sustenance in such a meaningful career.

You can learn more about Jessica on her site:

https://www.jessicagrant.org/

And you can read Jessica's book on wellness here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/two-perspectives-on-health-and-wellness/

Episode 2.14: Kevin Feher- Finding Balance Through Student Leadership

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 20:21:05 GMT

Kevin has received an undergraduate degree for music education from Duquesne University and his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration with a concentration on Curriculum and Instructional Design from Gwynedd Mercy University. He has taught in several public and private schools in the Bucks County, Pennsylvania area. Through those years, he has had experience teaching elementary through high school and a variety of musical disciplines including general music, strings, and band instruction. He is currently an employee of the Pennridge School District and is the Director of Bands at the high school, where he has served for the past five years.

6.3: Embracing The "Why Not": Following your Passions with Vicky Weber

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:39:05 GMT

In this episode, Sarah sits down with bestselling children's book author, literary agent, and music educator, Vicky Weber!

Vicky has been behind the scenes at F-flat for the past 2.5 years, helping our team move into print publishing and expanding our reach.

In this conversation, they talk about Vicky's first step to becoming a published author, what she wishes everyone knew about the publishing industry, and ways that others can connect with her and follow their passion!

You can learn more about Vicky and all of the things that she does here:

https://vickyweberbooks.substack.com/p/start-here

And, you can sign up for the picture book conference here:

https://www.allthingspicturebooks.com/pbcc

Episode 3.9: The Impact of Music Education Publishing Part I

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 13:01:59 GMT

It's our first episode of 2023! In this episode, our very own publishing Assistant, Rosie Wilson, sits down with two of our authors and visionary board members to talk all things publishing. In this first part of a two-part series, Nate Holder and Michelle Rose share their experiences with publishing, what made them decide to publish their work, and how publishing has changed their lives. Tune in to be inspired and learn the ins and outs of self-publishing or working with a hybrid publisher. The submission window for F-flat Books is OPEN from January 1, 2023- March 31, 2023. You can learn more about publishing with F-flat here: https://fflat-books.com/documentation/author-packet/. And, you can learn more about Nate's work with the Why Books on his site (https://www.thewhybooks.co.uk/) and check out Michelle's book at our site (https://fflat-books.com/product/teaching-music-online-a-comprehensive-guide-for-k-12-music-educators/).

Scott Schreer interview

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 20:27:27 GMT

Scott Schreer, Emmy nominated composer and producer speaks to us about what it takes to "make it in the biz" and writing theme music! Check out the entire podcast at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9N1jdExmlVA

4.11: Reflections on the AOSA Conference with Claire Rehmke of Musically Minted

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:30:59 GMT

In this episode of Musicast, Sarah sits down with Claire of Musically Minted to share reflections on the AOSA conference in November. Both Sarah and Claire were exhibiting for the first time AND are running their businesses full-time after being in the classroom for years. Listen in to learn about the behind-the-scenes of conference exhibits, what it feels like to run a small business in music education, and their shared transition out of the classroom.

You can learn more about Musically Minted here:

https://musicallyminted.com/

And you can follow Musically Minted on Instagram:

@musicallyminted

Episode 2.3: Dr. John Kratus- A Look at the Future of Music Education

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:23:00 GMT

John Kratus is professor emeritus of music education from Michigan State University, where he served as chairperson and taught general music methods, philosophy, research, sociology, and songwriting. He has presented his ideas at conferences in Ireland, Scotland, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Germany, Austria, Greece, Egypt, Japan, China, Malaysia, Canada, and the United States. His articles have appeared in most of the world’s major music education journals. He previously chaired the Special Research Interest Groups in Creativity, Philosophy, and Popular Music Education for the National (USA) Association for Music Education. Kratus is currently an independent scholar residing in Tarpon Springs, Florida.

LISTEN to one of Dr. Kratus' songs here!

Take a LOOK at Dr. Kratus' CV here! Dr. John Kratus CV

ACCESS RESEARCHGATE HERE!

Don't forget to check out the F-flat Books resources on creativity and song writing! Some examples include...

Episode 2.13: Maria A. Ellis of GirlConductor.com

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 20:20:54 GMT

Maria A. Ellis is a passionate educator and conductor. She is the owner of Girl Conductor LLC, a company that creates diverse music education resources and currently serves as the Director of The Sheldon’s City of Music All-Star Chorus and Choral Instructor at Sumner High School. Maria is an active clinician, adjudicator and presenter throughout the United States and abroad. She holds a B.M. in Music Education emphasis on Voice (K-12 Certified) Degree from the University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has served as the Arts and Administrative Fellow for The St. Louis Symphony and has served as the Community Engagement Manager for The St. Louis Children’s Choirs. Maria is the host of the Award Winning Show Bach and Beyoncé on Classic 107.3 The Voice for the Arts in St. Louis and is a host for the St. Louis Symphony "Live at Powell" broadcast. Maria is an active member of the American Choral Directors Association, National Association of Music Educators, Missouri Alliance for Arts Education, where she is chair of the RIDE (Race, Inclusion, Diversity & Equity) Committee and holds Level 3 Certification from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education. Maria is the wife of Marion Ellis and the mother of Aria, Kendal and Noah Ellis.

Check out GIRLCONDUCTOR.COM here!

5.18: Fresh Challenges and New Opportunities: Student perspectives on the High School-College Transition

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

This week Jen sits down with three former students to delve into the differences, challenges, and opportunities music students face making the leap to the collegiate level.

Joined by Lauren Saks from West Chester University, Michael Frentzen of Lebanon Valley College, and Christian Gallucci from University of Miami's Frost School of Music, each of these amazing student muscians offer their unique perspectives on what excites them about their field of study while being honest about potential pitfalls and the amazing opportunities that come from investing in themselves and their craft.

Episode 2.11: Zachary Clark- Mindfulness in Music Education

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 19:44:18 GMT

Zack Clark is an Associate Instructor and PhD Student in the Music Education Department at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. He is also a certified mindfulness teacher through the Institute for Mindfulness-Based Wellness and Pedagogy. During his tenure as a music teacher and performer in Bakersfield, CA, Zack developed curricula that incorporated mindfulness into instrumental music teaching settings for developing musicians. At Indiana, his research interests involve interdisciplinary investigations on how values and social contexts influence musicians’ experiences and evaluations of mindfulness.

You can email Zack at zclar@iu.edu

4.20: Providing Authentic Experience for Young Children with Jes Cleland

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:43:05 GMT

In this episode of Musicast, Sarah sits down with musician and educator, Jes Cleland. Jes is a bassist by trade and has spent years supporting young learners through her business, Music U, in Nashville. In this episode, she describes her journey to being an early childhood educator, how she approaches using literature with young children, and how her book “Get Out Beetle” was inspired by the kids she taught!

You can learn more about Music U here:

https://www.musicunashville.com/

Shop "Get out Beetle" merch here:

https://www.musicunashville.com/merch?category=Get+Out+Beetle

Follow Music U on Instagram @musicuclass

5.19: More than just Retention: Expanding Student Horizons with Travel

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

On today's episode, Jen connects with Charlie DiCarne and Beth Beccone of Peak Travel to discuss the benefits, challenges, and funny stories of student trips.

All three share their own experiences of organizing student travel and the impact it has made on their groups. Whether it's an overnight trip or a two-week summer sojourn, student travel is always a rewarding experience.

You can learn more about Peak here:

https://peakgrouptravel.com/

Episode 3: Lucky Chops – Streets & Stage: Funkifying Music Education

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 14 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Lucky Chops has been unleashing high-energy brassy funk on the world since forming in NYC in 2006. The intensity of the band’s energy is fueled by their desire to share the healing and inspirational power of music with others. That power has resonated with audiences around the globe, giving the band hundreds of millions of views on their online videos and leading to live performances in more than twenty five countries. Lucky Chops maintains a busy schedule touring across several continents. The band members are also committed to music education, regularly performing clinics and educational outreaches to help train and inspire the next generation of musicians.

Want more Lucky Chops? You can find the funk ambassadors in the following places:

Lucky Chops Website

A variety of mainstream streaming services + YouTube

You can also sign up for their Patreon which states the following:

"We started our band of brass and drums 14 years ago whilst in our band class at LaGuardia arts high school in NYC. Since then, we’ve made it our mission to show the world the joy and healing power these instruments can provide. We aim to breathe (literally) new life into these oft forgotten instruments by playing forward thinking, creative and energetic music rarely associated with our axes. Through doing this, we hope to repopularize instrumental music and also help inspire the next generation to discover the magic these instruments have to offer.

We started our band of brass and drums 14 years ago whilst in our band class at LaGuardia arts high school in NYC. Since then, we’ve made it our mission to show the world the joy and healing power these instruments can provide. We aim to breathe (literally) new life into these oft forgotten instruments by playing forward thinking, creative and energetic music rarely associated with our axes. Through doing this, we hope to repopularize instrumental music and also help inspire the next generation to discover the magic these instruments have to offer."

They release a wealth of usable content on their Patreon and for $3-20, it can all be yours!

Episode 3.12- Slaying the Dragon: Neoliberalism in Music Education

Musicast Podcast — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:57:04 GMT

Part of the Indiana University Practicing Philosophy Collaboration Series: Paul and Joey discuss two aspects of neoliberalism in current music education practices. First, using Sean Powell’s 2021 article titled “Competition, Ideology, and the One-Dimensional Music Program” they investigate how competition can limit possibilities for music education programs, especially programs that lack the resources of high performing, suburban schools. Joey and Paul then discuss how neoliberalism strips supports away from schools, using Lauren Kapalka Richerme’s 2022 article titled “The Hidden Neoliberalism of CASEL’s Social Emotional Learning Framework: Concerns for Equity.” They point out how individualized resources are used to replace neglected societal structures; in this case how SEL can be used to place responsibility on individual students for issues of racism, sexism, or poverty.

Episode 4.5: Wind Ensemble, Repertoire, and Modernizing Programs with Dr. Tonya Mitchell-Spradlin (Season 2 Reissue)

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 14:34:09 GMT

This episode originally aired in August 2021.

Tonya Mitchell-Spradlin is Director of Wind Band Studies and Assistant Professor of Music at Penn State University. In addition to conducting the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, overseeing the graduate wind conducting program, teaching courses in wind band literature and wind conducting, she oversees all aspects of the concert band programs at Penn State. Her appointment at PSU follows three years as Assistant Director of Bands and Associate Director of Athletic Bands at the University of South Carolina. Prior to her tenure at Uof SC, Mitchell-Spradlin taught at Valdosta State University as Director of Athletic Bands and was Director of Bands at Chamblee High School in Chamblee, Georgia.

Mitchell-Spradlin has a diverse background as a clinician, adjudicator, educator, and speaker. She is a frequent guest conductor, and has presented regionally at the South Carolina Music Educators Association Conference, nationally at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic, internationally at the International Society for the Promotion of Wind Band in Austria, and has served as Tau Beta Sigma’s local and national Women in Music Speaker.

As a proponent of new music, she is engaged in building the wind band medium. She led the consortium and premiere of Aaron Perrine’s Beneath a Canvas of Green for wind ensemble and percussion quartet which was also the source of her doctoral dissertation. Additionally, she is active in a number of premieres and consortiums for new music.

Mitchell-Spradlin serves as the National Vice President of Professional Relations for Tau Beta Sigma: National Honorary Band Sorority. She also holds memberships in Kappa Kappa Psi, the College Band Directors National Association, National Association for Music Education, and Women Band Directors International.

Learn more about the Penn State Music program here! https://music.psu.edu/

Episode 2.2: Dr. Lucy Green

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:08:49 GMT

Lucy Green is Emerita Professor of Music Education at the UCL Institute of Education, London UK. She is internationally known for her work in music education, particularly in relation to popular music, informal learning, new pedagogies, gender, ideology, musical meaning and more generally, the sociology of music. She has written four academic books on music education, co-authored one, edited two, and written one practical handbook for teachers. Her publications have been translated into many languages including Greek and Chinese. She has presented keynotes in countries around the world and serves on the Editorial Boards of numerous journals. Lucy developed the research and development project “Informal Learning in the Music Classroom” within the British movement “Musical Futures” and this work is now being implemented in countries across the world. She holds an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Hedmark, Norway, for services to music education. Currently she is beginning work on a new project concerning self-accompanied singing. Research is in its very early stages but she has made two self-accompanied CDs of 17th and 18th century songs.

Check out some more of Dr. Green's content in the links below!

5.15: Teacher Talk Round Table Discussion with Jennifer Repper, Susan Steen, and Jessica Tosti

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 01 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to a roundtable chat with three seasoned music educators who have seen it all (or at least most of it). On this episode, we talk shop about finding your strengths as a teacher, creating meaningful and unexpected opportunities for students, and laughing over the weird and wonderful moments that happen in our classrooms. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, pull up a chair - there is always room at the table.

Episode 2.7 Bob Habersat and Shed the Music

Musicast Podcast — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 00:20:37 GMT

Bob Habersat is a high school music teacher and co-founder of shedthemusic.com. He has presented clinics on music technology, guitar, and jazz at conferences and festivals across the country and has written articles for NAfME, Noteflight, JEN, and Soundtrap. Bob is the author of the Modern Musicianship Guitar Method and the Production Through Performance music technology curriculum. He is also the host of The Shed’s Spotlight podcast where he interviews and collaborates with artists, educators, and other notable figures in the music education orbit. When he is not teaching, Bob loves going on adventures with his wife Kristin and their children Lee and Brooke.

Episode 21- Hustle to the Start

Musicast Podcast — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 18:33:42 GMT

Kevin and Marissa released a new book with F-flat Books called "Hustle to the Start: A Resume and Interview Guide for Music Educators" this week! In this episode, they discuss its contents, why it's important for pre-service students looking to get into education and more!

Check out the book at this link! https://fflat-books.com/product/hustle-to-the-start/

7.1: How to Release Music with Students with Kevin and Luis

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Student voice and choice are increasingly talked about in education but how do we practically give students agency to engage in large scale musical products? In this episode, Sarah sits down with Kevin Longwill and Luis Aguilar to talk about an album project they completed with their students in the spring of 2026. In this episode, they share more about their program, process, and outcome of creating an album of original music with students. Listen in and get inspired!

This podcast episode is sponsored by Moosiko.

If you teach a school guitar, piano, ukulele, or modern band program, and you've been struggling to keep your kids engaged, Moosiko's Music EdTech platform could be a good solution. Used by 500 teachers and 20,000 students, their easy-to-use, structured learning platform makes practicing fun by breaking songs down into bite-sized pieces so any student, at any skill level, can feel a sense of accomplishment on their musical journey. Their massive song catalog and asset library saves teachers a few hours every week from having to hunt down lead sheets or create audio files for lesson plans. And their skill tracking and video tools makes it easy for teachers to keep tabs on which students are struggling and which are succeeding. Go to moosiko.com/k12 for more info and to signup for a free teacher account.

Links from the show:

Listen the full album from M3:

https://ffm.to/em3rgence

Learn more about how to release music with students (free download):

https://fflat-books.com/product/quick-guide-to-releasing-music

Check out Sarah's book on "How to Release Music":

https://global.oup.com/academic/product/how-to-release-music-9780197761199?lang=en&cc=us

Episode 2: Wanda Vásquez Garcia - Equity and Expectancy

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 07 Oct 2020 04:00:28 GMT

Wanda Vásquez de Garcia is a music educator, choir director, clinician and choir singer. A native of the Dominican Republic currently living in Colorado, she holds a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, first University in the American Continent, and a Master's Degree in Music Education with an emphasis on choral music from the University of Northern Colorado. Wanda is currently the general music teacher at the Escuela Bilingüe Pioneer in Lafayette, Colorado, and the children and youth choir director at First Congregational Church of Greeley, Colorado. As a K-5 music educator, she believes music is a very effective way to learn about cultures. She also believes in the importance of exploring diversity in ways that are fun, meaningful, and inclusive in order to embrace our differences with respect and tolerance. Wanda has presented clinics and reading sessions promoting multicultural music and music technology in the elementary classroom at Colorado ACDA, CMEA, and Little Kids Rock Modern Band Summit. Want to know about Wanda's Culturally Responsive Classroom Blog? Click here! ...or copy and paste this link into your browser! https://culturallyresponsivemusicclassroom.blogspot.com/

Episode 4.3: Embracing "Groove" in Music Education with Heather Fortune and Ethan Hein

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:48:26 GMT

What is groove-based music, and how do you get students to dig into complex rhythms and styles? In this episode, music educators Heather Fortune and Ethan Hein talk about their passion for groove-based music education and how they're actively creating resources to encourage connection and experimentation for musicians of all ages. They also share about their musical histories and how Twitter helped them find connection as creative educators. Learn more about Ethan and Heather and their new resource, "5 Pop Grooves for Orff Ensembles," on the F-flat Books website:

https://fflat-books.com/product/5-pop-grooves-for-orff-ensemble/

4.12: Reimagining Representation for Beginning Musicians with Charlie Edmonds

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 18:32:38 GMT

In this episode of Musicast, Sarah sits down with Charlie Edmonds, PhD student, music educator, and entrepreneur. Charlie is the Founder of "Pocket Methods," a method for beginning band and orchestra students that centers black Gospel music.

Listen in to learn about Charlie's journey to becoming a researcher and entrepreneur and how she is changing the world of music education, one student at a time.

To sign up for the Pocket Methods newsletter, visit the website and add your email in:

https://www.pocketmethods.com/

Stay in touch online:

Instagram: instagram.com/Pocketmethods

LinkedIn URL: www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-edmonds-36570b8a

Pocket's LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pocket-methods-llc/?viewAsMember=true

Email Address: pocketmethods@gmail.com

Charlie will also be creating a FB group for those interested in the method. Follow her work online to keep in touch!

Episode 25: Jazz Education- Process Over Product with Patrick Feher

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 01:57:12 GMT

Patrick Feher is a saxophonist and music educator currently working on his Doctorate of Musical Arts at Arizona State University. Previously, he received his Bachelor’s in Music Education from Penn State University, followed by a Master’s in Music Performance from Arizona State University. Through performance and education, he practices the importance of being a well-rounded and open-minded musician. He has had the privilege of working with musicians ranging from H. Robert Reynolds, Maceo Parker, and Roxy Coss, as well as having studied with Dr. David Stamber, Dr, Christopher Creviston, and Mike Kocour.

Episode 28: Creativity in Middle School Orchestra with Matt Shaffer

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 05 May 2021 11:01:08 GMT

Matt is currently the orchestra director at Mount Nittany and Park Forest Middle Schools in the State College Area School District. He completed his undergrad at Penn State University (BS in Music Education) and his Masters at Lebanon Valley College (MME). His comprehensive middle school string program focuses on performance and creative projects. He emphasizes playing techniques while expanding his students’ knowledge of composition and creativity through their playing. His students are competitive players representing State College Area School District at festivals and competitions locally and nationally.

You can purchase his book here! https://fflat-books.com/product/the-creative-string-orchestra/

Episode 2.5: Dr. Tonya Mitchell-Spradlin- Wind Ensemble, Repertoire, and Modernizing Programs

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:30:46 GMT

As a proponent of new music, she is engaged in building the wind band medium. She led the consortium and premiere of Aaron Perrine’s Beneath a Canvas of Green for wind ensemble and percussion quartet which was also the source of her doctoral dissertation. Additionally, she is active in a number of premieres and consortiums for new music.

Learn more about the Penn State Music program here! https://music.psu.edu/

5.3: Sharing the Love of Music with Non-traditional Music Students with Natasha Henry Rodriguez

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:00:00 GMT

Ever wonder how to balance the interests of your students with the curriculum you teach? Do you feel ever feel stuck in the confines of your curriculum?

On this week's episode of Musicast, we sat down with Natasha Henry-Rodriguez to talk about her unique experience as an educator and her new book, "Navigating Music Appreciation through Interpretation."

We hope you all enjoy Natasha's insight into cultivating and leveraging how music weaves its way through our culture to create meaningful experiences for our students!

You can learn more about Natasha's work on her Instagram:

4.17: Finding Your Voice Through Your Song with David Dockan

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 22:06:13 GMT

In this episode, Sarah sits down with David Dockan: musician, educator, and Ph.D. student at the University of Kentucky. David shares about his history as a musician and why he centers social-emotional learning in his work as both a teacher of young children and a teacher of pre-service music educators. He also talks about the inspiration behind his new book, "Your Song," created with Angela Carter.

You can learn more about David and his work at the F-flat Books site and at the link below:

http://www.dockanmusic.com/home.html

And, learn about the courses David shared in the episode:

https://kentuckyorff.com/upcoming-workshops/

https://finearts.uky.edu/music/professional-development-and-summer-graduate-study

Episode 2.9: Heidi Waleson - The Future of Opera

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 19:13:39 GMT

Heidi Waleson has been the opera critic of the Wall Street Journal for over 25 years. In addition to her regular criticism, her work for the Journal and other publications has focused more broadly on the changing profiles of musical institutions, new models for opera presentation, and the wider significance of opera and culture. She is a faculty member of the Rubin Institute for Music Criticism at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Her book, Mad Scenes and Exit Arias: The Death of the New York City Opera and the Future of Opera in America, was published by Metropolitan Books (Henry Holt and Company) in 2018; in paperback (Picador) in 2019. Mad Scenes won the 2019 ASCAP Foundation Deems Taylor/Virgil Thomson Award for Outstanding Music Criticism in the concert music field. She lives in New York City.

Read Opera News' review of Mad Scenes and Exit Arias HERE.

Check out Opera Philadelphia HERE

Episode 3.16: The Vietnamese Children's Songbook: A Starting Coversation with Dr. Tina Huynh and Darlene Machacon

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 02:26:10 GMT

In this inspiring conversation, Darlene Machacon sits down with Dr. Tina Huynh to talk about her new book, The Vietnamese Children's Songbook. How do we approach teaching music from a specific culture, and how do we honor our students in the process? Tina describes her journey of gathering and recording a collection of Vietnamese children's songs for teaching, learning, and connecting. And both Darlene and Tina share a vision for music education and music education publishing that is inclusive of many voices and cultures. You can learn more about Tina's work at https://www.vietchildrenssongs.com/, and you can get a copy of Tina's book and teaching guide at fflat-books.com

Episode 4.4: Bringing Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrations into the Classroom

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 14:54:35 GMT

Do you celebrate the mid-Autumn festival in your classroom? In this episode, Dr. Tina Huynh and Alice Tsui discuss the history surrounding the mid-Autumn festival and what cultural celebrations are present, including similarities and differences within various East Asian traditions. They share ideas for bringing music and other cultural treasures in the the classroom and how you can support students by honoring and amplifying culture bearers.

You can learn more about Tina and Alice's work through their resources (perfect for the Mid-Autumn Festival!):

The Vietnamese Children's Songbook: https://fflat-books.com/product/vietnamese-childrens-songbook/

The Vietnamese Children's Songbook Teaching Guide: https://fflat-books.com/product/vietnamese-childrens-songbook-teachers-guide/

And, the Moon Represents My Heart:

https://fflat-books.com/product/the-moon-represents-my-heart-teaching-guide-and-sheet-music/

Episode 2.4: Dr. Michquelena (Micki) Potlunas Ferguson- Women in Marching Bands

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:27:54 GMT

Dr. Michquelena Potlunas Ferguson currently serves as an Assistant Director of Athletic Bands at the Pennsylvania State University. In her role, she assists with the direction of the Penn State Marching Blue Band, the “Pride of the Lions” Pep Band, the Campus Band, teaches music courses, and supervises student teachers. Prior to her current appointment, she was a Lecturer of Music, teaching courses in music education and assisting with the direction of athletic and concert bands while concurrently completing her Ph.D. in Music Education from Penn State. Ferguson holds a Master of Music degree in Music Education from West Chester University, a Master of Business Administration degree from Alvernia University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Penn State.

Ferguson’s research interests include Title IX’s effects on women in collegiate athletic bands, investigating the role of women as leaders in music education, and athletic band musicianship. She has presented her research at state, national, and international music education conferences. Prior to returning to higher education, Ferguson taught in the Pennsylvania Public Schools for ten years, primarily in high school instrumental music. Ferguson previously served as the Senior High School Band Director and Music Department K-12 Chairperson in the Exeter Township School District in Reading, PA. At Exeter Township, Ferguson was responsible for directing the marching band, the concert band, the auditioned wind ensemble, jazz bands, AP Music Theory, and general music courses in popular music and music technology.

You can read Dr. Potlunas Ferguson's dissertation via link on the F-flat Books Website.

You can access a NAfME Session/ more information on action research by reaching out to Marissa Guarriello, Maggie Harrigan, Sarah Gulish, Matt Clauhs, or Erik Piazza. Their contact info is available via the F-flat Books Website

Episode 3.3: Where Does Technology Fit in the Music Room?

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 07:00:10 GMT

Join F-flat author Theresa Hoover and Kathryn Finch in a conversation centered on technology. They talk about their relationships with technology, how technology in the classroom has changed, and how music teachers can start adding meaningful technology to their curricula. Theresa and Kathryn are leaders in this field, and this conversation will leave you feeling inspired and encouraged. You can learn more about Theresa's work at https://musicaltheresa.com/ and connect with them on social media @musicaltheresa and @singingfinch1.

Episode 27: Jazz from Students' Perspectives with Greg Masters and Eric Rodgers

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 28 Apr 2021 11:01:20 GMT

Greg Masters is a senior at Pennridge High School. In addition to participating in the school jazz ensemble, pit orchestra, and symphonic band, Greg is also a member of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts Creative Music Program. There he has studied under renown jazz musicians namely Sumi Tonooka, Anthony Tidd, Josh Lawrence, and Brent White. He is currently studying with Doug Hirlinger.

He has played at the Center City Jazz Festival, The Barnes Foundation, South Kitchen Jazz Parlor and The Foundry Philadelphia. Greg will be attending Temple University as a Jazz Studies Performance Major in the fall and hopes to be an active musician on the Philadelphia jazz scene.

Check out his YouTube channel here and follow him on Instagram @_gregmasters_

Eric Rodgers has been playing violin and percussion for a combined total of 22 years. He participates in multiple Pennridge Performing Arts ensembles such as Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Pit Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band, and Indoor Drumline. Eric plans to continue pursuing his career in music by going to college to become a professional classical percussionist.

Episode 2.6: Beth Duhon- Wellness for Music Educators

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:46:07 GMT

Beth Duhon is, to borrow Tracy King's phrase, the K-5 "ambassador of joy" at Travis Elementary in Rosenberg, TX. This is her fifth year teaching in Lamar Consolidated ISD.

Longer bio: Beth Duhon is, to borrow Tracy King’s phrase, the K-5 “ambassador of joy” at Travis Elementary in Rosenberg, TX. This is her fifth year teaching in Lamar Consolidated ISD. She has received over $14,000 in classroom grants for a keyboard lab, iPads, and music manipulatives in addition to regularly receiving travel grants for music education conferences. In 2021, she presented “Self-Care for the Music Educator: Not Just a Buzzword” for TMEA and the LCISD elementary music teacher cohort. Previously, Ms. Duhon was a successful horn private lesson teacher, clinician, and freelance performer in the West Houston area for over a decade. She also taught elementary music in Williamsburg, VA and middle school general music in Falls Church, VA before moving to Texas. She was an honors recitalist, principal horn in the wind ensemble and orchestra, cum laude and an inductee of Pi Kappa Lambda from Illinois Wesleyan University where she received a B.M.E. At the University of Houston, Ms. Duhon was a teaching assistant in the music history department, summa cum laude and a student of Roger Kaza (St. Louis Symphony) and Nancy Goodearl (Houston Symphony). She received an M.M. in horn performance. Ms. Duhon met her husband, Jimmy, when they were both performing as instrumentalists at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. They have a ten-year-old son, Mark.

You can watch Ms. Duhon's TMEA presentation "Self Care for the Music Educator: More Than a Buzzword" by clicking HERE!

You can access the "Self Care for the Music Educator: More Than a Buzzword" supplementary materials by clicking HERE!

You can access the F-flat Books THAW replay by downloading the session pack on the website!

Musicast Episode 17: Tony Memmel- Music Accessibility for All Students

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 23:04:57 GMT

Tony Memmel is a singer-songwriter, speaker, and teacher with unique charisma and creativity. Though he was born with one hand, he taught himself to play the guitar by building a special cast that he designed out of Gorilla Tape.

He’s toured to 47 of the 50 states and to 17 countries, sharing his music and his message of hard work, determination, and resilience.

His work ranges from composing symphonies, to writing and arranging music for children, visiting schools, hospitals, and churches, to performing in historic concert venues, and helping people with hand/limb-differences (like his) to develop their own adaptive methods that allow them to make music a part of their lives.

Tony grew up in Waukesha, Wisconsin, and now resides in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife and son. He enjoys playing basketball, swimming, hiking, and cooking/trying new foods... especially if hot sauce is involved.

Links:

Facebook - Facebook.com/TonyMemmel

Website - TonyMemmel.com

Instagram - @tonymemmel

Twitter - @tonymemmel

Upcoming projects:

Tony is currently developing virtual programming for schools, communities, and U.S. Embassies & Consulates across the globe. Since April, our band has travelled (virtually) to 10 countries through our “Virtual World Tour” web series. Tony will be teaching virtual songwriting workshops with students in Uganda, Nigeria, and Thailand in the coming months.

4.25: Music Industry Marketing and Promotion with Freedom High School

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 08 May 2024 19:27:24 GMT

In this fun episode, Musicast creator, Marissa Guarriello, sits down with students from Freedom High School to talk about a class they are enrolled in. “Marking Musikfest” is a unique way to connect students with music industry skills.

Students used Sonic Bids and chose 10 different bands. Then, they selected favorites and offered them contracts for Musikfest, the largest free music festival in the United States.

Listen to the students share about their process, the artists they booked, and listen to the music throughout the episode.

If you’re an educator and you want to learn more about connections between education and industry, consider visiting the “Musikfest Industry and Education Conference” on August 1st and 2nd in Bethlehem, PA.

You can learn more at the link below!

https://www.musikfest.org/lineup/musikfest-music-industry-and-education-conference/

4:23: Getting Googley and Embracing Technology

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:44:22 GMT

I don't know about you, but this is the time of year when I feel overwhelmed with digital clutter and need to do some serious spring cleaning! Enter Theresa Hoover.

Last summer, Theresa delivered an incredible workshop at our annual symposium. She provided ideas for using Google Apps to enhance and streamline teaching. All of us were furiously taking notes and asking for more!

In this episode, I sit down with Theresa to discuss her history with tech, how she became part of #teamgoogle, and learn more about her workshop series, which debuts on April 26th.

You can learn more about Theresa's work here:

https://offthebeatenpathinmusic.com/

https://passthebatonbook.com/

Grab her book here:

https://fflat-books.com/product/empowering-ensembles-with-technology/

And, learn more about her PD sessions on our Learn Site:

https://learn.fflat-books.com/

4.14: "On the Journey" of Higher Education

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 16:36:31 GMT

What does research mean to you in your day to day practice? How does higher education fit into your professional and personal goals?

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Schultz (F-flat author and host of the "Research to Practice" column) and Marissa Guarriello (F-flat author, PhD students, and founder of Musicast) to talk about all things higher education. In this inspiring episode, they tackle:

How curiosity can drive research and why it matters to music education
Imposter phenomenon and debunking stereotypes in academia
Advice for anyone considering graduate school

You can learn more about Liz and Marissa's work below.

Read Liz's column on the F-flat website:

https://fflat-books.com/tag/research-to-practice/

Check out Liz's book on navigating research:

https://fflat-books.com/product/the-digital-companion-to-navigating-music-education-research/

Learn about Marissa's contributions on the F-flat site:

https://fflat-books.com/authors/marissa-guarriello/

Do you have an idea for a guest or topic you want us to cover? Send an email to support@fflat-books.com.

Episode 7: Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser- Chicken Soup for the Music Teacher Soul

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 21:00:00 GMT

Tim Lautzenheiser began his teaching career at Northern Michigan University. He then moved to the University of Missouri, and from there to New Mexico State University. During that time, Tim developed highly acclaimed groups in both instrumental and vocal music.

Following his tenure in the college band directing world, he spent three years with McCormick’s Enterprises working as Executive Director of Bands of America. In 1981, Tim created Attitude Concepts for Today, Inc., an organization designed to manage the many requests for teacher inservice workshops, student leadership seminars, and convention speaking engagements focusing on the area of effective leadership training. After thirty-plus years of clinic presentations, some three million students have experienced one of his popular sessions.

Tim presently serves as Vice President of Education for Conn-Selmer, Inc. He is a nationally recognized voice touting the importance of arts education for every child.

His books, produced by G.I.A. Publications, Inc., continue to be bestsellers in the educational community. He is also co-author of popular band method, Essential Elements, as well as the Senior Educational Consultant for Hal Leonard, Inc. Tim is also the Senior Educational Advisor for Music for All, and NAMM (The National Association of Music Merchants).

He holds degrees from Ball State University and the University of Alabama; in 1995 he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the VanderCook College of Music. He continues to teach as an adjunct faculty member at: Ball State University, Indiana-Purdue/Ft. Wayne University, and Butler University. In addition, he is a member of the Midwest Clinic Board of Directors and the Western International Band Clinic/American Band College Board of Directors. He is presently the Chair of the National Association for Music Education Music Honor Society (Tri-M).

Episode 2.12: Dr. Elizabeth Schultz- Taking Research to Practice

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 19:54:03 GMT

Dr. Elizabeth Schultz is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Florida where she teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in music education. Elizabeth's research interests are defining and understanding itinerant music teaching, effectively integrating students with disabilities into music classrooms, and making music education research more accessible for practicing PreK-12 music teachers. Elizabeth received her PhD in Music Education from the University of Florida, MM in Clarinet Performance from Louisiana State University, MAED in Curriculum and Instruction from Virginia Tech, and BA in Music Education and Clarinet Performance from Virginia Tech.

Find Dr. Schultz in the following places!!!!

Instagram: @liz_edugator
Website: eschultzmusiceducation.net
F-flat Books Research to Practice Recurring Column: https://fflat-books.com/author/elizabeth-schultz/
FMEA PRESENTATIONS!!! Friday, January 14th making small inclusive practices to make music classrooms more disability-friendly
Taking my own experiences as an itinerant teacher and the findings from my dissertation on secondary itinerant teachers in the southern US

5.16: Making an Early Impact: A Conversation on the Importance of Early Childhood Music Education with Jes Cleland

Musicast Podcast — Thu, 08 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT

On this week's episode, Jenn connects with Jes Cleland to talk about the importance of early childhood music education and her upcoming album 'Out There in the Wild'. Jes shares her passion for making music education accessible for our youngest students and how that shapes their journey going forward.

Episode 0: Sarah Gulish - The F-flat Vision

Musicast Podcast — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 21:26:37 GMT

Founder, CEO, Music teacher, and mom extraordinaire Sarah Gulish joins us to talk about the past, present, and future of F-flat books and the integration of Musicast to the company!

Do you know anyone that would be a great interview?! Nominate them here! https://forms.gle/JbzCstsizCHwT9zt5

Sarah Gulish holds a Ph.D in music education from Temple University. For over a decade, Sarah has taught secondary level music at Lower Moreland High School located in the state of Pennsylvania in the U.S.A. She also serves as Adjunct Professor of Music Education at Buffalo State University and Temple University. Her teaching centers on creativity and improvisation in courses focused on new music learners.

Sarah is the co-founder of F-flat books and has contributed to numerous publications in the field of music education, including chapters in The Bloomsbury Handbook of Music Education and The Learner-Centered Music Classroom: Models and Possibilities, along with articles and book reviews.

Episode 13: Abbie Van Klompenberg- Trauma Informed Teaching

Musicast Podcast — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 15:20:33 GMT

Abbie Van Klompenberg received her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Western Michigan University (Kalamazoo, MI) in 2007. In 2011, she graduated from Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ) with her Master’s Degree in Music Education. She was selected as the Outstanding Graduate Student from the Herberger Institute of Design and the Arts from over 2,000 candidates and was given this award for excellence in the public school and collegiate level classroom.

In 2013, Abbie became a National Board Certified Music Teacher, emphasizing in Early-Middle Childhood Vocal Music. This undertaking challenged her to grow as an educator and better understand her learning environment.

Abbie completed all three levels of Orff Schulwerk training at Trinity University in San Anotnio, Texas. In the completion of these courses, she gained certification from the American Orff Schulwerk Association. Movement, composition, and creative play are all elements of the Schulwerk approach that she incorporates into her classroom on a daily basis. In this approach, her students are able to connect with and experience music in an accessible way.

For the 2015-2016 school year, she was named the Trinity Prize Teacher of the Year for Castle Hills Elementary.

Abbie loves doing innovative things in the music classroom. She likes the students to explore creativity, Project-Based Learning, world music, and music technology. She believes that students should be able to sing, play, analyze, compose, and arrange all types of music.

Outside of the music classroom, Abbie has many hobbies and interests. She enjoys traveling and exploring new places. She likes to read and write in her journal. She also enjoys the outdoors and physical activities, especially running and yoga. She enjoys spending her free time with friends, her husband, Martin, and two dogs, Luna and Sirius.

You can learn more about Abbie by checking out her WEBSITE!

Episode 4: Kirsten C. Kunkle – Passionate Pioneering

Musicast Podcast — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 23:34:12 GMT

Soprano Kirsten C. Kunkle has been hailed as an outstanding singing actress with a voice that has been described as beautiful, ethereal, powerful, fiery, and bewitching. Among her favorite roles are Agathe in Der Freischütz, the title role in Suor Angelica, Magda and the Foreign Woman in The Consul,” Mimì in La bohème, Rosalinda in Die Fledermaus, Contessa in Le nozze di Figaro, Mother in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Iolanta and Brigitta in Iolanta, Zemfira in Aleko, Lisa in Pique Dame, Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni, Laetitia in The Old Maid and the Thief, and the Witch in Hansel and Gretel. With the Philadelphia Opera Collective, she has created leading roles in numerous world premieres, including Edith Standen in Shadow House, Annie Jump Cannon in Jump the Moon, Edgar Allan Poe in Opera Macabre: Edgar Allan Poe, and Dr. Frankenstein in By You That Made Me, Frankenstein. In 2016, she made her professional straight play debut in Machinal with EgoPo Classic Theater and her professional musical theatre debut as Domina in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum with the Scranton Shakespeare Festival. She has an Honorable Mention for The American Prize in Voice – Professional Art Song and Oratorio Division (Women), as well as being a two-time semi-finalist for The American Prize in Opera (Women). She made her Carnegie Hall debut in 2014, as well as being the Pennsylvania District National Association of Teachers of Singing Artist Award winner that year. She won second place in the Roschel Vocal Competition in 2015. She attended Bowling Green State University and the University of Salzburg for her undergraduate studies, majoring in voice performance with minors in Italian and German. Her graduate degrees are in voice performance from the University of Michigan. A voting member of the Muscogee Nation, Dr. Kunkle commissioned and premiered sixteen original compositions, including one of her own, based upon the poetry of her ancestor and highly-acclaimed poet of the Native American Muscogee Nation, Alex Posey. She has recorded extensively through the Comic Opera Guild, specializing in the works of Victor Herbert. Her recordings are collected at the Library of Congress, the National Museum of the American Indian at the Smithsonian Institution, and the Merkel Area Museum in Merkel, Texas. Ms. Kunkle is included on the list of Classical Native American Artists and Musicians at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian and on the Molto Native Music list of performers. She has been published in peer-reviewed journals and is a successful voice educator. She is the Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Wilmington Concert Opera, a grassroots women and minority led opera company in Wilmington, Delaware. Most recently, she had her solo European debut with the Sofia Philharmonic in the role of Arabella in Johann Strauss II’s “Blindekuh.” She is also a NAXOS recording artist for “Blindekuh,” which was released in March of 2020 to extraordinary reviews.