About the episode:
As our world continues to evolve and progress forward, it’s time for music education as a field to move forward as well. In this discussion, we will discuss what could be possible when we reimagine what music education could look like in a future where we center diversity, equity, inclusion and ensure that all learners have access to a high quality music education.
Listen to the audio-only version:
Highlights about the episode:
- Creating a fusion of culture of knowledge & experience with students
- Being “more than a music teacher” because it’s not just about the music
- Student ownership
- Who decides what music is important and worthy?
- Embracing our own cultural frames of reference to be able to embrace our students’
- How we don’t set music teachers up for success in their undergraduate teacher education programs
- Being clear about the ‘why’ and what students will take away from our music programs
About Franklin:
A three-time CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence and with more than a decade of experience in the classroom, Franklin Willis is a trailblazer and catalyst for change in the music education space, as well as a rising leader within the music industry at large. Not only does he lead the way in culturally responsive teaching techniques, but also, in his new post as Community Impact Director at the CMA Foundation, paves the way for students to experience equitable access to opportunities in the music industry beyond the classroom. As a former instructional music coach for MNPS, which impacted all general music teachers, Willis offers invaluable insight into the challenges and solutions that exist in music and arts education, ultimately bridging the gap between the music teachers the CMA Foundation serves, and the Country Music industry overall. With intentionality and creative vision for the future, Willis continues to challenge the status quo and encourage all facets of the music business to think bigger in order to serve students and ensure that the next generation steps into a genre that is robust and thriving.
Willis has created and facilitated professional development sessions for music teachers of all grade levels sharing his unique and relevant teaching practices. He consistently collaborates with colleagues, community organizations, local businesses, colleges, and universities to advocate for the importance of music education in our schools as well as developing a curriculum that will lead to higher engagement from students. Through his work, Willis has received national recognition for his commitment to student learning, his passion for the profession, and his innovative teaching practices.
Willis is a children’s book author and graduate of the University of Memphis with a Bachelor of Music Education with an emphasis in Choral Music in 2009. In 2012, he earned a Master of Education Degree in Nonprofit Leadership from Belmont University. Most recently Willis completed the Education Specialist Degree with an emphasis in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Technological University.
Learn more about Franklin at www.fwillismusic.com
Connect with Franklin!
Show Transcript
Coming Soon!