Category: General Music
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Revisiting Reflective Practice: Ideas for Music Educators by Dr. Lisa Martin
Reflective practice in music education is vital for professional growth, allowing educators to critically analyze their methods and beliefs. It involves setting aside time, addressing challenges, and questioning the status quo. Reflection should occur at various stages and depths, celebrating successes and identifying areas for improvement to enhance teaching effectiveness.
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Learning from Our Mentors: Philosophies in Practice by Rohit Kolluri
This article from the 2023 OMEA TRIAD explores the development of teaching philosophies among band directors in Central Ohio, focusing on mentorship, student connections, and personalized instruction. Interviews with nine directors reveal that impactful mentors and the balance of rigor and enjoyment in teaching significantly influence their approaches, ultimately fostering strong relationships with students.- Stephanie…
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Accessibility in the Music Classroom by Bryson Tarbet
Written for the Winter 2025 TRIAD, the author reflects on their journey as a teacher with ADHD, realizing its impact on their education and teaching style. They emphasize the importance of accessibility in classrooms for all students, not just those with formal diagnoses. The five domains of accessibility—sensory, language, physical, cognitive, and social/emotional—are highlighted as…
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Check Yourself- A List for Affirming Classroom Spaces-by Lorelei J. Batisla-ong, Ph.D.
This article addresses educators committed to recognizing each student’s unique identity and creating inclusive classroom environments. It emphasizes the importance of silence, active listening, and ongoing practice in developing affirming pedagogy. The piece challenges educators to confront and reflect on their own biases, encouraging an active pursuit of equity in music education.– Stephanie Bonitz, Editor…
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Fostering Well-Being in Elementary General Music-by Lisa Gruenhagen and Anna McClure
General music education, if practiced with intentionality, has the potential to be a passionate act of hope with tremendous implications for the academic, social, and emotional needs of students. General music specialists have the capacity to expose students to the very best parts of life itself: joy, playfulness, respect, gratitude, creativity, persistence, resilience, curiosity, and…
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Sensory Friendly Concert Design-by Nathan Irby
The Ohio State University In April of 2023, students and faculty from The Ohio State University School of Music partnered with WOSU Classical 101 and The Ohio State University Nisonger Center to present the first IMMERSE concert program, held in the new Ross Community Studio. IMMERSE is a sensory-friendly, interactive concert experience in which children…
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Rethinking Creative Listening: Helping Kindergarten Students Move Beyond Literal Responses- by Jennifer Cobb
Many music educators assume that young children naturally respond imaginatively to music. However, classroom experience may reveal that kindergarten students often respond to listening activities in literal ways. This article explores how scaffolding creative listening experiences through concrete starting points can support divergent thinking in early elementary music classrooms. By connecting musical elements to feelings,…
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Two Perspectives, One Purpose- by Michelle Leasor and Brian Stevens
The Modern Band approach in music education enriches traditional ensembles rather than competes with them. It engages students who might not connect with classic music programs through contemporary instruments and methods. Workshops emphasize inclusivity and creativity, allowing for diverse musical identities and fostering enthusiasm for learning, thereby enhancing overall student participation.