Finding my why In February 2021, we hosted a "Teacher Health and Wellness" virtual retreat. It seemed fitting at the time. Instead of pumping ourselves full of more PD, could we gather and pause? Take a break and learn how to recenter ourselves in the midst of a global [...]
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 [...]
Traveling from a Young Age I love to travel. I am so grateful that my husband is an incredible trip planner. His itineraries are so amazing that my friends and I have come to refer to them as the iTIMerary (his name is Tim). I grew up in [...]
By Dr. José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D., D.Min., D.B.E. Abstract This column explores how creative professionals can respectfully stand their ground when visions diverge with organizational leadership, offering strategies for navigating misalignment with clarity, composure, and conviction—without compromising one’s identity or purpose. Keywords: vision alignment, respectful leadership, workplace dynamics, [...]
As music teachers, we spend countless hours helping students grow as musicians, collaborators, and performers. The process of getting ready for concerts is no easy task. There’s so much going into it, and for many of us, our concerts are the perfect opportunity for audience members to see [...]
Out There In The Wild: Movement Songs as Tools for Early Childhood Music Education How purposeful movement supports musical, cognitive, and social-emotional growth in preschoolers By Jes Cleland If you've ever witnessed a preschool music class in full swing, you know it's not a quiet, sit-still kind of [...]
Tangible Inspiration: Why Example Outshines Empty Influence Abstract This article explores the concept of tangible inspiration—the idea that authentic leadership, creativity, and mentorship are most impactful when modeled through visible action rather than rhetoric. Drawing from behavioral psychology, leadership theory, and arts education, it presents the TOCAYO Framework [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This editorial explores the entrepreneurial spirit of classical composers, illustrating how figures like Beethoven, Mozart, and Liszt were not only musical innovators but also business strategists who shaped the industry through financial independence, audience engagement, and adaptability. By tracing the etymology of [...]
by Danielle Rothschild & José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This editorial examines the evolution, impact, and practical applications of orchestral fusion—the integration of live orchestras, digital orchestration tools, and classical instrumentation within mainstream music. Tracing its historical development from classical traditions to jazz, film scores, and contemporary popular [...]