Shows
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 51 – A Belarusian in Cambodia: Understanding by Design (UBD) & an Ableton-based Music Tech Approach w/ Pavel LipskiPavel Lipski is the Subject Leader of Music at CIA First International School in Phnom Penh, CambodiaComing through a rigid childhood music education that saw him lose interest in music by his teens, Pavel was introduced to the guitar by a friend and found his place on stage playing Red Hot Chili Peppers songs. After studying linguistics and education and then completing a year of compulsory service in the Belarusian army, it was until a friend introduced him to Fruity Loops (now FL Studio) on a computer that Pavel truly found his passion for music.Fa...2025-02-191h 02
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 50 – Venezuela, China, Kazakhstan & Indonesia: the “Music Mix” approach & The Big Gig impact w/ Jeremy Van SluytmanJeremy Van Sluytman is teaching music at Shekou International School, China.
Jeremy featured in a short conversation for Episode 29 of the podcast, but we wanted to do a deeper dive on his context and approach to music teaching in international schools. Jeremy is a thoughtful and reflective practitioner who has insights on a wide range of topics.
In this episode, we explore:
An overview and conceptual framework for the "Music Mix" approach that Jeremy uses.
how Jeremy's context has led him to using/defining the Music Mix approach.
Jeremy's journey to international school music teaching...2025-01-2053 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 49 – Teaching student-centred rock, pop & electronic music in Budapest w/ Adam GaenslerAdam Gaensler is teaching music at the American International School of Budapest. As is typical of American-style music education, music learning in secondary school is often siloed into strings, wind band and choir. Adam's role sits alongside these traditional streams by offering students rock, pop and electronic music...and it's no surprise that these courses are mega popular at his school!
Adam hails from Sydney, Australia, where he spent time teaching guitar, before moving to Shanghai, China (where he did a post-grad teaching degree) and then Jakarta, Indonesia. Adam has now been in Hungary for 8 years and is...2025-01-031h 07
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 48 - Understanding Music Technology at all Stages of Learning w/ Samuel WrightSamuel Wright is the International Baccalaureate Diploma Music Coordinator at the International School of The Hague, a CBI Trainer, Composer, Orchestrator & Author.
Samuel featured on Episode 2 of the MTIIS podcast where we spoke about his background and music technology in general. We welcome Samuel back to the show a couple of years later to specifically look at his brand new book: 'Music Technology Pathways: understanding music technology at all stages of learning'.
If you are a music teacher that struggles with technology, isn't sure where to start, is sick of buying hardware/software and never using it...2024-12-0348 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 47 - Use this model to speak to your senior leadership about your music program w/ Brad Fuller & James HumberstoneBrad Fuller is a music educator, scholar and jazz musician who has completed a PhD at the University of Sydney, Australia. James Humberstone is a music educator, composer-producer, researcher, technologist, and a Senior Lecturer in Music Education at the University of Sydney (also Brad's PhD supervisor).
Brad, James and their colleague, Caitlin Sandiford, recently hosted a global symposium on the concept of Educative Evidence-Based Practice (EEBP) in Music Education. The symposium brought together hundreds of music educators from around the world to discuss some of the dissonance many teachers face when given top-down directives from school leadership abou...2024-11-1844 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 46 - Help shape the future of international school music department design w/ Alison ArmstrongFill in the survey now!
Alison Armstrong returns to the MTIIS podcast after 2 years (she featured in Episode 9) to let us know how things are progressing for her and her team at Tashkent International School, Uzbekistan and to ask for YOUR help with a project she is working on.
We know that designing a new music department space, completing renovations or getting things setup in a new school can be a difficult job. Often we don't know where to start or have trouble communicating our ideas to senior leadership and end up with sub-par spaces, reso...2024-10-2918 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 45 – Making your international music curriculum inclusive by design w/ Adam OckelfordAdam Ockelford is Professor of Music and Director of the Applied Music Research Centre at the University of Roehampton, London. Adam and his colleagues developed the Sound Of Intent framework, a model of musical development that sets out how we all engage with music, from children in the early years to older people with dementia, from those with profound learning difficulties who are still learning to process sound, to others who are regarded as advanced musicians in their culture.
I was introduced to Adam via Anna Gower (you can listen to Anna's MTIIS podcast episode here), an inter...2024-10-1146 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 44 – Finding your community as an international school music teacher w/ Desta OldsDesta Olds is a Performing Arts Teacher at the International School of Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Desta joins the long list of cellists that we've had on the MTIIS podcast - this is purely a coincidence of course 😅!
Originally from the USA, Desta worked in South Korea and Hong Kong before joining ISPP a few years ago. Desta came to the recent Big Gig Japan (hosted by Canadian Academy Kobe and delivered by the team at Musical Futures International and MTIIS) and was such a vibe! She was a fantastic presence at the event and we wanted you all...2024-06-1435 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 43 - from Penang, Malaysia: Dalcroze, Strings & Play-based learning in Early Years & Primary w/ Asta HodgsonAsta Hodgson is the Head of Music at Prince of Wales Island International School in Penang, Malaysia.
Beginning with her formal music training as a cellist, and subsequent music teacher training focusing on Dalcroze, Asta then completed a dissertation looking at how entrainment interventions impact prosocial behaviours in early years children. This is such a cool study! Asta has so many practical and strategic ideas for how to integrate Dalcroze, strings and play-based music learning together.
In this episode, we explore:
what it's like to live and work in Penang, Malaysia.
some powerful approaches to fo...2024-05-2351 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 42 - 20 years in Spain, songwriting camps, student-led events & honouring all learning w/ Kerry WickershamKerry Wickersham is an Apple Distinguished Educator and the Head of Music and CAS Coordinator at Sotogrande International School in Spain.
He has spent 20 years in Spain and has developed some incredible opportunities for his students. In fact, as you'll find out in this episode, many of these opportunities have been led by his students.
In this episode, we explore:
Kerry's background as a musician and music educator, including how a combination of his father's job as a pilot and the TES, gave him an initial introduction to international schools.
the songwriting camps at El Cañu...2024-05-0852 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 41 – Living in Barcelona, early years, democratic choir directing & embracing unlearning w/ Anastasia Mousouli"I had to revisit my philosophy...I had to rewire my brain"
Anastasia Mousouli was trained to sing and play the flute in a rigid and formal setting. It allowed her to become a professional flute player and perform in some incredible contexts. However, as Anastasia entered the international school music classroom, it became clear that some considerable unlearning might need to happen to provide access to music and support as many students as possible. What ensued was a period of incredible growth, transformation, and new experiences in just about every educational setting. Anastasia has taught early y...2024-04-2434 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 40 - Designing spaces for creativity, the value of mentoring & life in Ecuador w/ Jeff TollefsonJeff Tollefson is the Fine Arts Director at Colegio Menor Quito in Ecuador.
I first heard about Jeff during my interview with Jefferson Aranda for Episode 17 of the MTIIS podcast. Jefferson spoke super highly of Jeff and referred to his mentorship numerous times during the conversation. So, after a few back and forth messages via LinkedIn, it became clear that it would be a great idea to speak with Jeff about his work and life in Ecuador.
Jeff provides a bounty of ideas and insights and demonstrates an example of what it means to relearn, unlear...2024-04-0641 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 39 – “The classroom is a stage”, teaching from the drum kit & a personal journey with ADHD w/ Chris McLeayChris McLeay didn't really start getting 'into' music until his twenties.
Music became an expressive outlet and tool for personal growth for Chris.
After completing a music education degree, some time spent working with a powerful Musical Futures program in South Melbourne (Australia), and multiple other music ed projects, Chris moved into the role of Primary Music Teacher at Discovery College, Hong Kong.
In this episode, we explore:
Chris' journey to teaching in Hong Kong, and what he loves about living and working there.
his unique approach to teaching early years and prima...2024-03-2041 min
International Teacher PodcastAn "Aussie" Teaching Music in International SchoolsITP - 83 Peter Pagett "lives and breathes" different curriculums. IB,PYP, MYP, Australian, American, Chinese, British, or an international mix of curriculum. Whether it's band, chorus, performing arts, or 4th grade recorders, Peter celebrates and teaches them. He joins us from his mini-vacation in Chiang Mai, Thailand to talk about teaching back home in Australia and a variety of schools overseas.
Peter agrees: "All international schools are different." We also discuss "failing forward", housing, a bit about boarding schools, several schools in China, and teaching in Macau.
Some of the connections we discussed are linked...2024-03-1059 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 38 – MYP Music & strings deep dive + teaching music in international schools in the USA & The Netherlands w/ Rebecca Wade-ChungRebecca Wade-Chung is the current MYP/DP Music Teacher and the MYP Music Subject Coordinator at the International School of The Hague in the Netherlands.
I met Rebecca through MTIIS regular contributor, Samuel Wright, and knew a podcast conversation was on the cards.
Rebecca epitomises the evolution of an international school music teacher. Starting out as a pure string orchestra teacher, Rebecca then discovered the power of the MYP music during her time at Atlanta International School in the USA. Her time in this role was the catalyst for a large portion of this conversation, where...2024-03-0639 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 37 – London, Zagreb, Budapest & Prague: fresh ideas for international school music teachersw/ Callahan Davenport, Adam Gaensler, Lana Skrgatic & Dylan Norcross
My favourite format this year has been the multi-guest episode. I love having the opportunity to learn from people within a short timeframe! These four are no exception.
In this second instalment of recordings from the AMIS Music Educators' Conference in Zagreb in November 2023, I speak with 4 international school music teachers:
Callahan Davenport - International School of Prague, Czech Republic
Adam Gaensler - American International School of Budapest, Hungary
Lana Skrgatic - American International School of Zagreb, Croatia
Dylan Norcross - American School in London, England
Each int...2024-02-2137 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.36 - Breaking away from GCSE & A Levels at Dubai English Speaking College w/ Sam WormaldSam Wormald was starting to lose passion and interest in teaching music...until she threw out an outdated exam board model and started fresh!
This episode explores Sam's journey as Head of Curriculum for the Performing Arts at Dubai English Speaking College (DESC). It gives us all a new potential option for revitalising our international school music programs through exam board choice. It's not an easy journey but in Sam's case, it's been an extremely successful one!
In this episode, we discuss:
the circumstances that led Sam and her team to transition over to RS...2024-02-0639 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 35 – From Serbia to China, a full middle school music technology program & A.I. use cases w/ Damir OdobasicDamir Odobasic is Head of Music at Shanghai United International School, China.
Growing up in Serbia and following a formal route to learning piano accordion, Damir came to a crossroads regarding his future. On the advice of a friend, he was encouraged to look at music teaching jobs in China. Fast-forward a few years and Damir has found his direction. A place where, as he calls it, he can "swim".
We start this episode with a beautiful piano accordion performance from Damir, before delving deep into a step-by-step walk through of his technology-focused middle school mu...2024-01-2351 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 34 - Music-based service learning projects & preparing learners for performances with music tech w/ Eivind LodemelThis episode was an interviewers dream. I tend to prepare every interview quite meticulously and had a solid bunch of meaty questions based on my knowledge of Eivind's work, but nothing really prepared me for the insights that flowed during this conversation!
Eivind Lodemel is the current Head of High School Music at the United World College, South East Asia, Singapore (East Campus). I met Eivind during one of our MTIIS Conversations. Eivind had some super useful ideas for helping students to explore music technology for performance, an important part of the new IBDP Music syllabus. I'd also...2024-01-0950 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastBONUS EP - The consonance and dissonance of teaching music in an international school today w/ Chris KoelmaThis was my keynote address from the AMIS Music Educators' Conference in 2022 at American School of The Hague.
For those interested in a bit about my background, why I started MTIIS and some of my ideas about international schooling and music education, this one is for you.
You can watch the YouTube version with all of the supporting graphics/pictures/slides on YouTube here:
https://youtu.be/vbLWLLBPPz8
2023-12-3137 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 33 – Düsseldorf, Salzburg & Zurich: three unique international school music teacher’s journeys w/ Melvyn Sawyer, Lindsay Stirrat & Tracy SonsThis episode features:
Melvyn Sawyer from International School of Düsseldorf, Germany;
Lindsay Stirrat from St. Gilgan International School, Austria, and;
Tracy Sons from Zurich International School, Switzerland.
This episode give us wonderful insights into 3 unique international school music education contexts. I explore each teacher's background and then ask them two key questions:
1) What is your favourite thing about being an international school music teacher?
2) What is one thing you've changed in your approach to music teaching since becoming an international school music teacher?
Each individ...2023-12-1739 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 32 - Working in Tokyo & impactful DEI initiatives for international school music departments w/ Louisa DanmeriLike many international school music educators, Louisa Danmeri's "one or two year adventure" as an international school music teacher quickly turned into 10 years! It's incredible how many times I've heard this same story from the community! Louisa is the Director of Music at the British School in Tokyo and has some brilliant insights to share with us.
In this episode, we explore:
Louisa's background as a professional cellist, including her time working with Cellestial Cello Quartet.
what it's like to live and work in the bustling city of Tokyo, Japan.
perspectives on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI...2023-12-0538 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 31 – Kota Kinabalu, curriculum comparisons & process over product w/ Kristel TretterKristel Tretter is Music Teacher at Kinabalu International School in Sabah, Borneo.
In this episode we go on a veritable curricular journey! Kristel is a Canadian national who has worked in international schools in Singapore, Thailand, Mozambique & Japan. I was especially interested in her perspective on delivering the internationalised English National curriculum in the form of IGCSE and A Levels (Cambridge), as a Canadian.
In this episode we discuss:
What it's like to live in the small city of Kota Kinabalu.
Some of the main challenges of living and working in a smaller Malaysian city...2023-11-2136 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.30 - The transformative nature of international school music teaching w/ Clare LambertClare Lambert is the Head Of Music at Nexus International School, Singapore.
I first met Clare back when she was teaching in Hong Kong at Discovery Bay International School. She hosted a conference and it was fantastic! Prior to HK, Clare worked in Bangkok, Thailand. She has also hosted a number of student festivals over the years. Clare knows her stuff!
Clare has a fascinating story about how teaching internationally has transformed her approach to music education. In this episode, we discuss:
Clare's background as a musician and music educator.
How Clare's approach to cur...2023-11-0135 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 29 - Community Insights #3 w/ Jeremy Van Sluytman, Emilio Parrilla & Samuel WrightThis was such a fun series to record.
11 international school music teachers, across 3 episodes, with plenty inspiring ideas for us all.
The third, and final, community insights episode features 3 international school musical teachers:
Jeremy Van Sluytman - Middle School and High School Music Teacher at Shekou International School, Net Valley Campus
Emilio Parrilla - MYP Music Teacher at International School Delft
Samuel Wright - MYP/DP Subject Coordinator for Music at the International School of The Hague
As with the previous two episodes, we explore 3 main questions:
What are you looking forward to most a...2023-10-1851 min
The Music Education PodcastEpisode 61 - 'International Insights' Chris KoelmaThank you to our Sponsor Faber Music. Visit https://www.fabermusic.com/education and use Podcast1 at the check out for money off. This podcast is brought to you by Soundstorm. Send us a text2023-10-1237 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 28 – Community Insights #2 w/ Emmalee Johnson, Scott Harbin, Jana Beydoun & Paul WrightIt's undeniable that our community is full of incredible music educators!
This second instalment of 'Community Insights' features four of these phenomenal individuals:
Emmalee Johnson - IB Music & High School Orchestra Teacher at Seoul Foreign School, South Korea.
Scott Harbin - Middle School and High School Band Director at United Nations International School, Hanoi, Vietnam.
Jana Beydoun - Head of Expressive and Performing Arts at Kajonkiet International School Phuket, Thailand.
Paul Wright - Middle and High School Music Teacher at the American School of Doha, Qatar.
We explore 3 main questions in this episode:
What are you l...2023-10-0344 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.27 - Life in Luxembourg, learning from students & Richard Lane w/ Demo DimitrakoulakosDemosthenes (Demo) Dimitrakoulakos is the Academic Leader of the Arts and Upper School Music Teacher at the International School of Luxembourg (ISL). Demo has lived and worked in Luxembourg for 18 years! During his years at ISL, Demo has worked with his team to methodically transform the approach to music education at ISL. Demo is the National Coordinator of Music Education for Luxembourg as part of the European Association for Music in Schools (EAS-m). He is now also chair of the board of EAS-m.
In this episode, Demo and I explore:
The incredible life and work of Demo...2023-09-2133 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.26 - Community Insights #1 w/ Megan Highfill, Avinash Srinivas, Paul Ellison & Beren GastonWhen we put the call out to the MTIIS community for guests for a 'special start of year episode', we never imagined this response!
Fourteen interviews later and we have an incredible wealth of insight from our community. Not one episode, but three!
In this first edition of MTIIS 'Community Insights', I speak with:
Megan Highfill: Elementary Music Teacher at Lincoln School, Nepal
Avinash Srinivas: Drums and Percussion Tutor at Stonehill International School, Bangalore
Paul Ellison: Director of Music at Dover Court International School, Singapore
Beren Gaston: PYP/MYP Music Teacher at the International Sch...2023-08-3156 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 25 - What makes good international school music teacher professional learning? w/ Anna Gower, Steve Jackman & Ken Owenw/ Anna Gower, Steve Jackman & Ken Owen
Welcome back to the MTIIS podcast!
In this episode we explore the question: "what makes good international school music teacher professional learning". Throughout the episode we refer to professional learning or PD (Professional Development) as the process of teachers undertaking training to learn new ideas, skills and understandings about music education to improve the outcomes for students in their care. We hope to inspire you to think broadly and critically about your professional learning goals as you step into the academic year ahead!
We discuss:
- Why it is so important for...2023-08-0935 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 24 – International school tiers, the identity of leaders & the art of DJ’ing w/ Dr. Denry MachinI've been looking forward to doing an episode on this topic for a long time! And, what better way to finish the 2023/24 northern hemisphere academic by taking a leap into this BIG topic with none other than Dr. Denry Machin. This episode is based around the question:
'What is an international school?'
Firstly, what's your answer to that question? Tricky isn't it!
Dr Denry Machin was previously the Head of Upper School at Harrow International School Bangkok, moving from that post into a corporate “new schools’ development” role in 2012. For the last decade he’s been involved in international school d...2023-06-2148 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 23 – Singapore, Saudi Arabia & Italy: Life as an international school band director w/ Brian WhiteBrian White is the current Director of Bands at the American School of Milan, Italy.
Brian is originally from the USA. After a fortuitous encounter with an international school teaching couple when on holidays in Austria, Brian and his wife knew this was the path for them. 20+ years lates and Brian has completed long stints at international schools in Singapore & the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Having recently moved to Milan, and after eating his own body weight in gelato, pizza and pasta, Brian joins the podcast with some incredible stories to share.
In this episode we...2023-06-0856 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.22 – A pathway from instrumental tutor to international school music teacher w/ Yann Zhe YauI'm so happy to have had the opportunity to interview good friend and inspiring educator Yann Zhe Yau.
Yann and I worked together for a number of years in Malaysia. His story is inspiring. His attitude is exemplary.
Yann is a joyful, positive and thoughtful music educator that represents a new wave of international school music teachers who have transitioned from their role as instrumental tutor. Yann worked with me as a trumpet tutor and then did an online PGCEi through Warwick University, before securing a full time classroom music teaching role in an international...2023-05-2437 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 21 - UK influences on international school music education w/ Dr. Liz StaffordThere are many 'types' of international schools. The two dominant powers influencing what happens in these schools are the UK and the USA. The reasons for this are largely economic, but also stem back to important historical movements, as well as, the more recent push and pull of globalisation. Anyway...a whole episode on 'international schools' is in the pipeline, so watch this space!
For now, we are going to focus on the influences coming from the UK context on music education in international schools. And who better to discuss this with than Dr. Liz Stafford! Liz...2023-05-1131 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.20 - What is the future of music education?Well, we've reached episode 20 - thank you for joining us so far!
This episode is a special exploration of one question:
'What is the future of music education?'
I speak to an amazing line-up of international school music educators who attended the Musical Futures International Big Gig conference in Bangkok in March 2023. The conference brought 40 music educators together to sing, play, jam, record, sample, edit and mix. Centred around 'informal music learning' pedagogy underpinned by the research of Lucy Green, the conference was all about making music together. The energy throughout the two...2023-04-2727 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 19 - Play-based early childhood music pedagogy in your context w/ Tina ArenasI first met Tina Arenas when I attended one of her workshops at a music education conference. During the workshop, Tina gracefully led 50 music educators through a wonderful repertoire of joyful activities. We made shapes, explored our vocal range, danced, moved, played instruments and more.
I spent some time chatting with Tina and her husband Juan (also a music teacher) after the session and knew I wanted to follow up with a conversation for the podcast at some point.
Tina currently works as an early childhood and elementary music teacher at the American School of Dubai. She is also...2023-04-1249 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 18 - Understanding the impact of colonisation and exploring the 'why' of music education w/ Nate HolderNate Holder is a musician, author and international speaker based in the West Midlands, United Kingdom. I have been keeping an eye on Nate's work for the last couple of years and I recently came across his book series called ‘The Why Books’. Along with his own podcast series for students, called 'The Why Music Podcast', Nate's work challenges music educators to ask some important questions about what, why and how they're doing the things they do. Nate has worked in Germany and has been forming connections with some international school educators, but is equally fascinated by this world (as y...2023-03-2950 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 17 – The evolution of music teacher identity: from Ecuador to the UAE w/ Jefferson ArandaJefferson Aranda (Jeff) is an Ecuadorian national currently teaching music in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Jeff spent most of his teens navigating the social and cultural stigma of pursuing a career in music and music education in Ecuador. Through a series of life-changing events, Jeff found his place teaching music in international schools in Ecuador before moving to the UAE.
In this episode, we explore:
Cultural perspectives and taboos towards music and music education in the context of Ecuador.
Jeff's journey to international school music teaching, navigating economic and social barriers on his way.
The influence of...2023-03-1645 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastBONUS EP - w/ Dr. Jennifer Walden discussing the World Music Pedagogy course in May 2023Register here: https://mtiis.co/world-music-pedagogy/
In this bonus podcast episode, Dr. Jennifer Walden and I sit down for a chat about the upcoming World Music Pedagogy course in May 2023.
This unique opportunity for international school music educators is not to be missed!
Accredited by the Smithsonian Institution and hosted by Jennifer, in collaboration with musicians from around the world, this course is a ground-breaking shift in professional learning for international school music educators.
In this short (14 minute episode), we explore what participants can expect and why this course is going to b...2023-03-1314 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 16 - The art of body percussion w/ Ollie TunmerIn this episode, Ollie Tunmer explores why the art of body percussion connects so well with the international school context.
Since 'body percussion' is a fundamental part of cultural meaning-making in societies around the world, Ollie explores how international schools can find a deeper sense of community and expression through this accessible art form. Ollie has expanded his mission to work with many international schools, helping staff and students find connection to beat, rhythm and movement.
As a former cast member of the London and European Tour casts of STOMP and their sister show ‘The Lost...2023-03-0125 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 15 - International school music department leadership, student anxiety & Paperbark Publishing w/ Kirrili WilliamsKirrili Williams has been a Director of Music in international schools in Australia, UK, Oman and China.
With a research Masters in International Education, and many years experience teaching British-style and IB music, Kirrili provides articulate and nuanced insights for the MTIIS community. Kirrili is currently in Australia, so I made the trip up the coast to record this episode in-person. You may even hear the buzz of cicadas in the background - a quintessential sound of the Australian summer!
In this episode, we discuss:
Kirrili's journey from owning a successful music school in...2023-02-1638 min
Our Mind On MusicEpisode 17: Chris Koelma Interview (MTIIS)Episode 17: Chris Koelma Interview (MTIIS)
Chris Koelma is the founder of Music Teachers In International Schools (MTIIS) as well as founder and composer for Beginner Orchestra, a platform for orchestra directors to access scores specifically composed for beginner ensembles.
In the first episode of our current series focussing on songwriting and arranging, we speak with Chris Koelma about the experiences as a musician, songwriter, educator and leader, as well as some of his motivations for the work he is currently doing in music education.
For more information about Chris Koelma and his projects including...2023-02-1257 min
Our Mind On MusicEpisode 17: Chris Koelma Interview (MTIIS)Episode 17: Chris Koelma Interview (MTIIS)
Chris Koelma is the founder of Music Teachers In International Schools (MTIIS) as well as founder and composer for Beginner Orchestra, a platform for orchestra directors to access scores specifically composed for beginner ensembles.
In the first episode of our current series focussing on songwriting and arranging, we speak with Chris Koelma about the experiences as a musician, songwriter, educator and leader, as well as some of his motivations for the work he is currently doing in music education.
For more information about Chris Koelma and his projects including...2023-02-1257 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 14 – From Slovakia to the world: being a non-dominant passport holder & British-style vs IB w/ Jana BeydounJana Beydoun had no idea what she was getting herself in to!
A one year teaching post in the UK was simply meant to be an opportunity to develop her teaching skills and do some travel. As a Slovakian national with an English Language/Literature and Music Education double major, Jana was well-qualified and happy to try some new things!
Twenty years later, Jana has lived and worked as a music educator in Tanzania, Kazakhstan, Hong Kong and Thailand. She has collected some incredible experiences teaching both 'British-style' and IB curricula, but has come up...2023-02-0143 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.13 - A deep dive into whole school music curriculum design w/ Steve JackmanSteve Jackman is an expert in understanding how to develop whole school music programs in international schools.
Steve currently works at Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok as the Head of Curriculum Music. He oversees curriculum music for K-13 and knows a thing or two about how to build a program that is relevant, innovative and connected to an individual school context. Steve also completed his dissertation looking at Music Technology in International Schools and has some brilliant ideas for how to integrate music-making using technology right from the early years.
In this episode, Steve and I di...2023-01-1840 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.12 - Third Culture Kids, music as paint & the new IB Music syllabus w/ Liam Callanw/ Liam Callan.
In November 2022, I attended the AMIS Music Educators' conference to present the keynote address. I encouraged the audience to think about their journey to international school music teaching and to reflect on the unique stories that we each bring. We all come to music education from a variety of angles and inevitably this feeds directly into how we teach our students.
Liam came up to speak with me straight after the keynote. He began to share a little of his story and it got my attention immediately!
That's because Liam...2023-01-0637 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.11 - How has international school music teaching changed? w/ Delphine Hastwell, Emma Jones & Tara BerrymanThis episode was recorded live at the FOBISIA Music Teachers' Conference at Bangkok Prep International School, Thailand.
I speak with three wonderful music educators currently working in international schools in the Asian region. Delphine Hastwell is the head of infants music at Tanglin Trust School, Singapore where she has worked for 20 years! In her time, Delphine has witnessed some amazing changes to her school, the music curriculum and her surroundings. Emma Jones has worked at Dover Court International School, Singapore for 4 years and has made it through a turbulent time with COVID restrictions. Emma's answer to my favou...2022-12-1423 min
International Teacher PodcastInternational Music Teachers - Malaysia & ArgentinaITP 42 Music teachers are special people. Chris Koelma, founder of Music Teachers in International Schools, joins us from The Netherlands. To talk about music teachers and the resources his website has to offer newbies and veterans alike. Found out more about his passion projects and his opinion on teacher recorder to students.
Links mentioned in the episode:
Music Teachers in International Schools:
https://mtiis.co/
Check us out at our new website for The ITP:
www.itpexpat.com2022-12-1048 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.10 - Redefining the role of musical theatre in international schools w/ John PrignanoThis episode is dedicated to exploring musical theatre in international schools.
I speak with John Prignano, the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Development & Education at MTI (Music Theatre International) - https://www.mtishows.com
John was a professional broadway dancer before beginning at MTI and knows a thing or two about musical theatre education! MTI is known as one of the leading organisations for licensing musicals to international schools. Their resources are spectacular and their support is second to none.
John and I discuss the role of musical theatre in International schools an...2022-12-0139 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.9 - An International journey in building musical communities and "the jam" w/ Alison ArmstrongAlison Armstrong has worked as a music educator in Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Switzerland, Laos, Thailand and now Uzbekistan.
Drawing on influences from all of these experiences, Alison represents a new wave of international school music educator. Unconstrained by tradition, Alison delves into the experiences of her students to create music programs that are truly communal. In this episode, we explore the ways that Alison's personal reflexivity around her own music learning has informed her approach to music education pedagogy.
Alison recounts her various experiences in international schools to draw a thread to show how tapping int...2022-11-1746 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP.8 - Percussion, wellbeing and "world music" w/ Andy GleadhillAndy Gleadhill is well-known on the international school music education scene, especially in the Middle East and Asia. Andy has worked with hundreds of international school music teachers over the years, specifically in the area of culturally unique styles of music focusing on drumming and percussion. He has produced books and resources to support teachers and presents workshops and speaks at conferences around the world.
In this episode, Andy begins by sharing some crazy stories about how he traveled the world to learn a diverse range of musical styles. Andy then explores how he got involved with wo...2022-11-0339 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 7 - International schools in India & re-interpreting the IB music curriculum w/ Shayok BanerjeeShayok Banerjee is an enthusiastic and innovative international school music educator from India. Shayok began learning the Hindusthani classical music tradition (vocals) before delving into a range of Western styles in his teens. After forming various fusion bands and groups, and after working as a professional musician in a range of contexts, Shayok then began on a path towards teaching the IB. Shayok became enamoured by this fresh approach to music education and hasn't looked back! He now specialises in teaching IB music from a unique perspective that draws on his understanding of musical fusion, music technology and music...2022-10-1950 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 6 – RSL Awards Music Exams for International Schools w/ Alistair Platt & Rockie SiewI began offering Rockschool (RSL Awards) exams for my international school students when I couldn't find options for them via more traditional examination routes. Using RSL Awards resources were a brilliant way of incorporating a contemporary approach into a school culture where music exams were placed on a pedestal.
In this episode, I speak with Rockie Siew about his experience working with international schools in Malaysia and Brunei. We speak about his background as a musician/teacher and how he began working to encourage international school music teachers to adopt RSL Awards resources. The conversation then turns t...2022-10-0653 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastBONUS EP - The power of community: FOBISIA Music Teachers' Conference 2022 w/ Simon Green & Catherine FrisbieSimon Green is the current Head of Secondary Music and Catherine Frisbie is the current Head of Primary Music at Bangkok Prep. I had the privilege of sitting down with both of them to discuss the upcoming FOBISIA Music Teachers' Conference on November 24th and 25th, 2022.
We begin by learning a bit about the unique journeys to international school music teaching that Simon and Catherine have experienced. We then attempt to answer one of my favourite questions: 'what does it mean to be a 'good' international schools music teacher?' The conversation then moves on to an ex...2022-09-2621 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 5 - Designing truly effective music education spaces in your international school w/ William ThompsonWilliam Thompson is Director of Education with Chamberlain Music. He is an experienced music educator who is one of those people that all international school music teachers should know. His understanding of curriculum, pedagogy and music education philosophy informs every element of his work in his current role as a consultant.
William works with international school music teachers from around the world to help them design and build world-class and truly effective music education spaces, including classrooms, practise rooms, recording studios, recital halls, concert halls, and theatres. He also specialises in setting up networked Apple-based music tech s...2022-09-2238 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastBONUS EP - Keith Montgomery, Executive Director of AMIS on the upcoming AMIS Music Educators' Conference.In this special bonus episode, Keith Montgomery and I begin by discussing his background as a international school music educator. Originally from the Pacific North-West of the USA, Keith worked in Egypt for 13 years and London for 13 years. He has some great stories! Keith is now the Executive Director of the Association for Music in International Schools (AMIS), an organisation that provides a network of support for music programs in international schools all over the globe through the presentation of professional conferences, academic workshops, and ensemble festivals.
Keith and I discuss the upcoming AMIS Music Educators' Conference...2022-09-1418 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 4 - Building a curricular concert band program from scratch w/ Paulette WilkinsonPaulette Wilkinson entered a school where music struggled to 'cut through' a deep culture of sporting excellence. Always keen to learn and try new things, Paulette immediately set about building a music program that students, parents and the community absolutely loved.
In this episode, Paulette shares her fascinating journey to international school music teaching. She explores the 'how' and 'why' of her approach to developing a curriculum-based band program and suggests ways that you can do it too. We talk about the effect the program had on student engagement, school culture, and iGCSE and IB numbers for...2022-09-0841 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 3 - Being bold with culturally diverse music education w/ Jennifer WaldenJennifer Walden is a truly inspiring international school music educator.
Originally from Canada, Jennifer has now worked as an international school music teacher in Taiwan, Colombia, Syria, Malaysia, Singapore, the Netherlands, Canada, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic.
Jennifer describes her approach to music education as truly global, teaching culturally diverse understanding, awareness, and appreciation through music. She has presented at over 50 conferences and has multiple publications in academic journals.
In this podcast, we explore how music educators can be bold, yet balanced, when teaching culturally diverse music in the international school setting. Jennifer...2022-08-251h 03
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastAn introduction to the Music Teachers In International Schools Podcast w/ Chris KoelmaWelcome to the Music Teachers In International Schools (MTIIS) podcast! I'm so glad to have you here.
In this episode I give a brief introduction to the podcast, why it exists, what my vision is and how you can be involved!
Be sure to sign up to the mailing list at: http://mtiis.com and join the groups on Facebook and LinkedIn.
All of the episodes are also available on YouTube where you can see the gorgeous faces of my guests!
Watch the episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisKoelmaMusicEducation2022-08-1902 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 2 - Music technology, finding 'an edge' and global community w/ Samuel WrightSamuel Wright is a music education powerhouse.
With the foundation of a distinguished career as a music teacher in Australia, Samuel entered the international school music scene looking for adventure. After working in South Korea and Austria, Samuel moved to the Netherlands and is currently working at the International School of The Hague.
Samuel is a prolific writer, composer and music tech innovator who loves to keep his students on their toes with interesting tasks using quirky pieces of gear. Samuel has spoken at global conferences, worked on multiple collaborative arts projects and has recently w...2022-08-1259 min
Music Teachers In International Schools PodcastEP. 1 - Anna Gower: Relearning, finding 'place' & Musical Futures w/ Anna GowerAnna Gower is currently a Key Stage 2 music teacher at St. Andrew's International School, Bangkok, Thailand. She is an incredibly experienced music teacher, having worked with students from K-13 and as a professional development provider with Musical Futures International. In this episode, we discuss what it is like to be a music teacher in an international school, what a 'good' international school music teacher might be, her favourite things about living in Bangkok, and some of the ways in which international school music teachers can use Musical Futures resources and informal music learning pedagogies in their classroom.
...2022-07-2253 min
The Garden Pod#38 GIS Orchestra PodcastChris Koelma shares a Podcast showcasing our orchestra.2020-04-3016 min
The Garden Pod#12 Personalising LearningGREAT FOR TEACHERS & PARENTS INTERESTED IN PERONALISING LEARNING. This week we have conversation with Isabel Richards, James Abel and Chris Koelma who have been exploring how to effectively personalize learning for students in their classes. This is an honest discussion around what this looks like when done well but also what they have found some of the pitfalls to be.2018-03-2641 min