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Earbuds to Ensembles: Connecting with Students Through Music They Love

What happens when we stop asking students to leave their musical identity at the classroom door?

In this special live episode of The Score, hosts Eric Jimenez and Justin are joined by Shirron Hawkins, Sarah Lopes, and Samara Martinez for an engaging conversation recorded at TMEA 2026. Together, they explore how today's educators can build stronger relationships, increase student engagement, and create more inclusive music programs by embracing the music students already connect with.

From popular music and culturally responsive teaching to recruitment, retention, and authentic student voice, this panel shares practical strategies and personal experiences that challenge us to rethink what meaningful music education can look like.

Whether you're a band, choir, orchestra, mariachi, guitar, or general music educator, this conversation will leave you inspired to meet students where they are—and help them discover where music can take them.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Building relationships through students' musical interests
• Creating culturally responsive ensembles
• Bridging popular music and traditional music education
• Practical ideas for increasing engagement and belonging
• The future of music education

🎙️ Recorded live at the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Conference 2026.

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Music Credits:
Intro: Justin McLean
In Rotation & Outro: Ben Bohorquez - @jamin_music