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 [...]
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 [...]
As I write this post, I am reflecting on the latest turn of events over the last couple of weeks. While some decisions have been made that will directly impact the work that we do as teachers, other decisions are threatening the very identity of who our students [...]
Abstract Concert programming extends beyond repertoire selection; it is a multidimensional process that integrates narrative structure, audience psychology, and entrepreneurial strategy to enhance the concert experience. This editorial examines the impact of narrative-driven programming, audience engagement techniques, digital interaction, and the role of humor in live performance. It [...]
By José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This article explores how artificial intelligence (AI) empowers independent CEOs, particularly in creative industries, by streamlining operations, enhancing decision-making, and fostering innovation. Grounded in leadership theory and entrepreneurial frameworks, it emphasizes the importance of ethical AI integration to complement human creativity and [...]
Authored by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This editorial explores the interplay between artificial intelligence (AI), human creativity, and the enduring value of imperfection within the creative industries. It advocates for ethical AI integration while emphasizing humanity’s unique capacity for emotional depth, imperfection, and meaning-making in the arts. [...]
Ah….winter break. Every December (and also in February, because I live and work in New England), I’ve always gotten the “itch” to just be done. Done with teaching. Done waking up early and driving to work in the dark (and then back home in the dark if I [...]
The Power of Thanks: Gratitude in Music, Business, and Beyond As we gather for Thanksgiving, reflecting on gratitude feels more essential than ever—especially for those of us navigating the creative and entrepreneurial world of music. While the music industry is often characterized by ambition, deadlines, and competition, cultivating [...]