NCMEA Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Christen Blanton, director of the Old-Time Ensemble at UNC-Greensboro and Orchestra Director at Lincoln Academy in Guilford County.We explore the rich history of Old-Time music, its similarities and differences with Bluegrass, and the cultural hotspots that keep this tradition alive in North Carolina. Dr. Blanton shares how Old-Time music is taught and learned, and how its community-based, aural tradition can be powerfully integrated into modern classrooms.We also dive into the cultural significance of Old-Time music in our state, and how embracing this tradition can connect students to history, identity, and one another.This is one of my favorite interviews in the history of this podcast — I guarantee you'll learn something new and walk away inspired.

In this episode, we talk about the upcoming changes to the educational standards that the state has passed. You will want to go to the following website: http://go.ncdpi.gov/AE-Hub. This is where you will find a wealth of information about the upcoming switch, webinars, information for principals, and the like. We both hope this podcast episode will make your transition easier.

Join me for an inspiring conversation with Robert Irving III - legendary pianist, composer, and Miles Davis' musical director from 1980-1989. We discuss his history and how he met and worked with Miles Davis. Mr. Irving was key to Miles Davis' comeback album "The Man with the Horn." We also discuss his future plans with Miles Davis' 100th birthday next year.

In this podcast, I sit down with Mr. James Daugherty. James is the Past President of the Southern Division, a Past President of NCMEA, and is currently the Co-Chair of the Advocacy Committee. James recently retired from Davidson County after a 30-year career in education. One of James' signatures in his leadership is advocacy. In this episode, we look at how we advocate. James gives us perspectives on what we do well and how we can improve as educators. You will want to hear his wisdom in this area, I guarantee.

In this episode, Brandon Roeder and I discuss the new standards required next year in detail. We cover what they are and how they relate to our current standards. If you have questions about the new standards, this is a podcast you do not want to miss.

Hello, and welcome to another school year. In this episode, Dr. Jose Rivera from UNCP and I discuss Latin American Music Education in the state of North Carolina. This topic should be of interest because the Latin American population is growing in our state. Major points of discussion include population growth, student support, ensembles, Latin music resources, and much more. I hope you enjoy it.

In this episode, I have a fascinating conversation with Mr. Avery Payne, the Band Director at Millbrook High School in Raleigh, North Carolina. Notably, under his leadership, the Millbrook HS Wind Ensemble performed at the NCMEA Conference in 2022. Moreover, this year, they graced the stage at the National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana. Specifically tailored for aspiring and early-career educators, this episode delves into the intricacies of long-term planning necessary to consistently move a program's performance to a higher level. Avery shares invaluable insights and practical advice for educators embarking on their journey, especially those stepping into their first teaching roles.

Absolutely! Here's a more dialed-back version: In this engaging episode of the podcast, join me as I sit down with Mr. Dustin Ragland, the Education Development Manager for Ableton Live in the Americas. Together, we explore the fascinating ways Live can enhance the classroom experience and unlock its full potential. From practical tips on integrating field recordings to leveraging various Ableton products, we delve into insightful discussions sure to inspire educators. Plus, a friendly reminder: NCMEA maintains neutrality, welcoming all software systems for discussion. If any other DAW would like to have a discussion, please feel free to contact howie.ledford@gmail.com so we can talk.

In this captivating podcast episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Tonya Allison and Lindsey Williams, who serve as our esteemed Co-Chairs for Music In Our Schools Month. Together, we delve into the history of this significant month, exploring its origins and evolution. Furthermore, we delve into the invaluable advocacy work undertaken by NCMEA at the state level, shedding light on the crucial role of music education in our communities. Throughout our conversation, we ponder various ways to harness the spirit of Music In Our Schools Month within our local community, emphasizing the transformative power of music education. From sharing inspiring projects to exchanging insightful perspectives, our discussion covers a diverse range of topics, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the significance of this month-long celebration.

In our 20th episode, join me for an enlightening conversation with the newly elected President of the NCMEA, Mrs. Catherine Butler. Together, we look into Mrs. Butler's journey as both and individual and a dedicated educator, exploring her experiences as a musician and teacher. We also discuss her vision for the future of the NCMEA and the strategies she plans to implement to achieve them.

On this episode of the NCMEA Podcast, I have a conversation with Mrs. D'Walla Burke, the Director of Choral Activities at Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, NC. In this episode, our focus is on Historically Black colleges and universities, exploring the rich and diverse culture they embody, with a particular emphasis on the unique culture at WSSU. As a natural extension of our discussion, Professor Burke and I delve into the topics of culturally responsive teaching and asset-based learning.

Warning: If you are looking for some joy and some education this podcast is for you. My guest is Ms. Jazzmone Sutton. She is currently the State Advocacy Engagement Manager for NAfME. we look at the topic of advocacy from multiple angles. We examine the difference between policy and advocacy. We also look at how you can deal with your community all the way from your parents to your principal. She goes over strategies for getting what you need for your classroom in a manner that is truly inspiring. We hope you enjoy.

In this episode, Dr. Carol Earnhardt and I discuss the topics of mentoring and musical literacy. We discuss how a first-fifth year teacher can get a mentor, and how one can become a mentor. We look at how this program is making a difference in music education. In the "Favorite Lesson Plan section" we look at why musical literacy is on of her favorite topics in music education. Take a listen. We hope you will enjoy.

In this podcast, I talk with Dr. Wes Parker at NCSU. Dr. Parker is the Director of Jazz Studies at NCSU and led the Jazz Orchestra to a performance at the prestigious Midwest Band and Orchestra Show in Chicago. The Jazz Orchestra is only the fourth band from NC to ever play that conference, and the only collegiate ensemble to play there. In this heart warming interview, we talk about music at a school without a music major. We also talk about he built the jazz program and resources for jazz. I hope you enjoy.

In this episode of the NCMEA Podcast, I talk to Mr. Donny Walter. Mr. Walter is the Orchestra Director at Northwest Guilford Middle and High School. This interview covers a host topics, but our main focus was to talk about how get better more productive rehearsals. This podcast will give you good ideas that you can implement in your rehearsals.

This is a fascinating episode and somewhat controversial. This episode is about stand heights. Band directors have told students to raise their stand to where they can see the conductor. Dave explores what a lowering stand height can do for your program. We explore how low stand heights change the look and sound of the instrument and the ensemble. This brings to light that some teachers do not look at the overall presentation of their ensembles. On a personal note, presentation is a topic I am exploring with my own students. Also, we take a look at the pedagogical benefits of a lower stand height for younger students. After this podcast you might never look at this topic the same way again.

In this episode of the NCMEA Podcast, I interview Dr. Jonathan Kladder from UNC-W. Dr. Kladder teaches courses in music education and technology at UNC-W. He is also the chair of the newly formed Popular Music Education Committee for the NCMEA. We examine how this committee goals is to grow music education as a whole through out the state by offering classes that are geared to students who want to take music, but do not have an outlet at their school. I think you will find this podcast informative about how popular music education works in a public school setting.

In this episode, I interview Emily AsKew. She is the chair of the Young Professionals Committee of the NCMEA. She is the Chorus Teacher at Ledford Middle School. The school has no relation to the host. Emily and I talk about a host of topics like NCACDA's Middlefest, her work with the Young Professionals, and her graduate studies at UNC-G. If you were ever curious to know what the Young Professionals Symposium is, listen to this episode. She explains all the details of this committee.

Phillip Riggs is a Grammy Award winning educator from Blowing Rock, NC. He is a clinician for Conn-Selmer and is in demand as an adjudicator and mentor teacher. He was a band and choral director for many years. Phillip has many great insights for new (and not so new) teachers on how to recover out of the pandemic. You will not want to miss this one.

In this episode, I talk to Jeremy Tucker. Jeremy is the Arts Coordinator for Durham County Public School, President of the NCACDA, and a member of the NCMEA. We talk about his work as an arts administrator and the continuing work that the NCACDA and the NCMEA are doing pertaining to DEIA across the partnership between both groups. I want to wish you a very Happy Holidays and an outstanding New Year.

In this episode, I talk with Roosevelt Pratt on his success with student leadership and beginning bands at the high school level. Mr. Pratt is a Fayetteville, NC native and is the band director at E. E. Smith High School in Fayetteville. He is continuing a long standing tradition of student leadership at E. E. Smith, and has worked to make it his own. We also talk about he is successful with a beginning band at the high school level.

In this episode, I talk with Dave Albert. The retired band director and master teacher from Leesville Rd. High School. Dave is a master percussionist so we are talking a little about his history, how to tune drums, volume balancing, part distribution, and time management. This is one not to miss. Anytime I talk to Dave I learn something new, and this interview was no exception. I will guarantee that you will learn something in this episode. I hope you enjoy. BTW we are now on Google Podcast for our Google friends.

In this episode, I talk with Past President Dr. Connie McKoy. Our main focus will be on the merger story between the Afro-American and the white music music eduction organizations back in 1970. This is the story this is the founding of the NCMEA 50 years ago.

In this episode, we hear from Mrs. Lillie Harris and Dr. Tim Nowak about the work the IVfME committee is doing to help us all become more inclusive members of the organization and teachers in our classroom. In this episode you will find some real conversations about where the organization is and where it is going.

In this episode, Ryan Ellefsen and I talk about his school performance at the ASTA national conference, and what it took to get there and perform. We also talk about his teaching duties as the band and orchestra director at his school. This includes his teaching day and what his duties look like. Finally, in the "If you had one lesson plan section..." he gives us his ideas on room setup for music education.

In this episode, I interview Dr. Rob Deemer from SUNY Fredonia. Dr. Deemer is the curator/founder of the Composer Diversity Database at https://www.composerdiversity.com/. This database catalogs know works by diverse composers. This episode should help expand your musical programming practice to include a more diverse background of composers.

In this episode, I interview Mr. Gabe Herman. Mr. Herman is originally from Chapel Hill, NC and is the Professor of Music Technology at the Hartt School at the University of Hartford.

In this episode we will get to know our new Executive Director, Dr. Susan Heiserman.

This is the new podcast for the NCMEA. In this podcast we will be interviewing Johnathan Hamiel our new President. Through out this series this podcast will examine a variety of topics that pertain to Music Education. From meeting people in the field, choice of literature, and much more. This podcast should air monthly.