by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. & Shane Colquhoun, Ph.D. Abstract This article argues for re-centering expressivity and creativity in music education through a unified lens called Muisc. Derived from a misspelling that reimagines error as artistry, Muisc emphasizes relationality, inclusivity, abundance, and authenticity. By critiquing the overemphasis on [...]
Abstract Balancing professional dedication with friendships beyond one’s field is more than leisure—it is an essential strategy for renewal and perspective. This editorial explores why cultivating relationships outside one’s discipline fosters creativity, prevents fixation, contextualizes priorities, and sustains both well-being and professional drive. Keywords: Social life; Interdisciplinary connection; [...]
When I was a new teacher, I approached lesson planning this way: 1- Identify concepts to teach 2 - Select song material to teach concepts 3 - Consider what materials and instruments were needed My lessons had a strong sequence of steps and students participated in the activities. [...]
Connecting Kids Through Songwriting I am writing this on the eve of our Metro Nashville Public School EP release, I Believe, I Belong, featuring our incredible educators and talented students. I feel so blessed to lead the MNPS Songwriting Summit—an experience that unites music teachers, students, families, and [...]
In the creative arts, some of the best partnerships are born out of mutual passion. You meet someone who speaks the same artistic language, and suddenly you’re collaborating late into the night, trading ideas, and making things happen. At the start, it’s often about shared enthusiasm—not contracts, invoices, [...]
Abstract This article explores the metaphor of gardening as a framework for personal, professional, and cultural growth, emphasizing the importance of removing “weeds” such as distractions and toxic influences while nurturing “plants” that represent core values, high-potential ventures, and fruitful relationships, illustrated through the entrepreneurial and artistic practices [...]
Dr. José Valentino Ruiz & Andrew Wang Abstract This article explores the ethical, spiritual, and pedagogical dimensions of mentorship, arguing that true mentorship requires ego-free investment in others’ growth, humility in leadership, and a global perspective that honors mutual learning and cultural wisdom. Keywords: Mentorship, Music Education, Leadership, [...]
By Dr. José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. and Kevin Maldonado Abstract This editorial explores the concept of relational intelligence as an essential yet often overlooked form of intelligence that goes beyond interpersonal skills. It examines how discerning relationships between people, systems, places, and purposes can unlock unexpected opportunities, foster [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. & Thaddaeus Bourne, D.M.A. AbstractThis article explores why creative professionals should resist the temptation to bend the truth on job applications and instead focus on aligning their career pursuits with grounded, evolving realities. Drawing from empirical research and professional development frameworks, it advocates [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. and Steve Rucker Abstract As artificial intelligence continues to redefine the boundaries of music creation, human musicians are faced with a vital opportunity—not to compete with machines, but to reclaim what makes their work emotionally and culturally indispensable. This article explores how artists [...]