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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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Email: podthescore@gmail.com | The Score Podcast Website

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

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🎙 Episode 120: Christopher Herrero – The Art of Band is the Art of War

This week on The Score, Eric and Justin sit down with Christopher Herrero, Director of Bands at the legendary Edna Karr High School in New Orleans.

🔥 A proud Karr alum and the first Latino Tuba Section Leader at Jackson State University, Herrero returned home to lead the very program that shaped him—reviving its legacy, growing student membership, and infusing new purpose into every rehearsal.

💡 From the battlefield of competition to the classroom of community, Christopher shares how discipline, strategy, and heart collide to create excellence—and why he believes “The Art of Band is The Art of War.”

▶️ LISTEN NOW: https://linktr.ee/thescorepodcast

🎧 Hit play. Get inspired. Share with your people.

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📢 Spread the Word: Know someone building greatness in their program? Tag them!
📱 Stay Connected: Follow us @podthescore for more episodes and updates.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @podthescore
Email: podthescore@gmail.com | The Score Podcast Website

Support The Score on Patreon or Paypal

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

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In this powerful and reflective episode of The Score, Eric and Justin sit down with Dr. Derrick Fox (@singingingfox1), Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, Research, and Creative Endeavors and Associate Director of Choral Programs at the Michigan State University College of Music.

Dr. Fox opens up about his journey as a leader, educator, and artist — exploring how self-determination, intentionality, and community have shaped his path. From navigating barriers as a Black musician in predominantly white spaces to empowering the next generation of music educators, his story reminds us that true leadership begins with purpose and accountability.

Listeners will hear Dr. Fox’s insights on mentorship, vulnerability in leadership, and what it truly means to create spaces where every voice is valued. His message, “If it is to be, it is up to me,” challenges us all to step into our power — not only as educators, but as agents of change.

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, conductor, or future arts leader, this conversation will leave you inspired to reflect, act, and uplift those around you.

🎧 Listen now and join the movement to redefine leadership in music education: https://linktr.ee/thescorepodcast

📱 Follow Dr. Fox: www.drderrickfox.com
| Instagram: @singingingfox1

#TheScorePodcast #MusicEducation #Leadership #ChoralMusic #ArtsLeadership #RepresentationMatters #EricAndJustin #IfItIsToBeItIsUpToMe

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @podthescore
Email: podthescore@gmail.com | The Score Podcast Website

Support The Score on Patreon or Paypal

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