THE FLIPSIDE
The Flipside is a space for rethinking music education. Through honest reflection, bold ideas, and real-world experiences, this blog challenges traditional assumptions and explores what music learning can become. From modern band and inclusive practices to creativity, community, and lifelong musicianship, The Flipside looks beyond “the way it’s always been” and asks what truly serves students.
Before the Students Took the Stage, Their Coaches Did
At Amp Camp, students learned performance by watching their own teachers and coaches take the stage. Staff bands modeled how musicians embody music, connect with one another, and share energy with a crowd. Meanwhile, campers practiced being enthusiastic audience members. Together, these experiences transformed the final concert into a joyful community celebration rather than a formal recital under quiet observation.
My Students Aren’t Wrong: Part 3 - They Sit Still Because We Trained Them To
In Part 3 of “My Students Aren’t Wrong,” I reflect on watching modern band students sit motionless in rehearsal, not because they lacked passion, but because they were performing exactly how music education trained them to perform. This post explores the difference between technical accuracy and human connection, and asks what might happen if music education focused more on communication, energy, and audience engagement.