In episode 79, we welcome Jessie Peterson, a dedicated middle school band director and a passionate advocate for fostering intrinsic motivation in music education. Drawing from her doctoral studies at Clemson University and her extensive teaching experience, Jessie delves into the transformative power of Self-Determination Theory in the classroom. She shares how the principles of autonomy, competence, and relatedness have helped her create an inclusive and empowering environment where students thrive. Whether it’s encouraging students to choose their own instruments or setting collaborative goals for performances, Jessie demonstrates how these strategies cultivate a love for music that lasts a lifetime.

Tune in as Jessie shares practical insights, from utilizing sticker-based systems for mastery learning to fostering peer mentorship among students. Her creative approaches have not only expanded her band program dramatically but have also reinforced the value of music as a safe space for self-expression and growth. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to teaching, this episode offers valuable takeaways to implement in your own practice. Don’t miss Jessie’s heartfelt stories and actionable tips for building a connected and motivated musical community.

Connect with Jessie and learn more:

• Email - petersonjessielynn@gmail.com
• Chris Ferguson website - https://www.cfergusonmusic.com/
• Dan Pink - Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us - https://amzn.to/4ezsYQs

Learn more about Pass the Baton:

• Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/
• Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership
• Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9
  

In Episode 78, Theresa and Kathryn welcome Taylor Morris and Sara Duce, co-founders of the Gilbert Town Fiddlers. Taylor and Sara discuss their journey in music education and share how they have built an extracurricular program that fosters creativity, collaboration, and student ownership in music. Their organization, based in Gilbert, Arizona, teaches middle and high school students how to play and arrange music by ear, improvise, and work in ensemble settings. They emphasize giving students autonomy in music-making, allowing them to learn arrangement skills and make creative decisions in a democratic, collaborative environment.

Taylor and Sara also explain how their experiences in music education have influenced their approaches as private teachers and orchestra directors. They discuss the importance of providing students with choices, encouraging self-reflection, and helping them build the confidence to express ideas. Both educators highlight the unique skills students develop through ensemble-led arrangements and how the experience allows students to connect deeply with their music. Taylor and Sara’s insights make this episode a valuable listen for educators interested in incorporating more student-led, creative processes into their classrooms.

Connect with Taylor and Sara:

• Website: https://www.gilberttownfiddlers.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gilberttownfiddlers/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gilberttownfiddlers
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylormorrismusic/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraduceviola/

Learn more about Pass the Baton:

• Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/
• Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership
• Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In episode 77, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Grammy Music Educator of the Year, Stephen Cox, as he dives into his unique approach to music education and his latest venture with the Willis Wonderland Foundation. Stephen shares insights from his 14-year teaching career in Texas, where he developed a progressive, student-centered approach to band programs, prioritizing student autonomy, joy, and intrinsic motivation. He also reflects on his journey toward empowering students to lead and make decisions, which transformed his music programs and resulted in both personal and collective growth for his students.

Now, as part of the Willis Wonderland Foundation, Stephen is developing free songwriting resources to further his mission of making music education more accessible and engaging. The foundation, established to honor the legacy of renowned songwriter Allee Willis, provides teachers with tools to inspire students through songwriting and creative expression. Tune in to hear Stephen's inspiring thoughts on how progressive music education and creative freedom can transform not only classrooms but the lives of young musicians.

Connect with Stephen and learn more about his work:

• Website: https://stephentcox.com/
• The Willis Wonderland Foundation: https://williswonderland.org/

Learn more about Pass the Baton

• Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership
• Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9