The Orchestra Teacher Podcast

Dr. Charles Laux

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast is a show for string and orchestra educators at every level. Hosted by veteran orchestra director Dr. Charles Laux, each episode features conversations with master teachers, clinicians, composers, and leaders in music education. Topics include string pedagogy, rehearsal techniques, program building, recruitment, and sustaining a successful orchestra program. The podcast features practical ideas, real experiences, and professional inspiration and is designed to support orchestra teachers in and beyond the classroom.

  1. 148. A Legacy of Excellence with Laura Mulligan Thomas

    6d ago

    148. A Legacy of Excellence with Laura Mulligan Thomas

    Episode 148 — A Legacy of Excellence with Laura Mulligan Thomas In this inspiring episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, host Dr. Charles Laux sits down with legendary educator Laura Mulligan Thomas, who led the award‑winning Charlottesville High School Orchestra for forty remarkable years. What began as a program of just eight students grew under her leadership into a nationally recognized powerhouse of 120 musicians—earning consistent superior ratings, performing at the Midwest Clinic, touring Europe five times, and shaping generations of young artists. Laura shares stories from her musical upbringing, the early days of rebuilding the CHSO, and the philosophy that made her program thrive: community, joy, high expectations, and a deep commitment to student growth. She discusses the importance of rhythmic training, creative rehearsal strategies, building a strong low‑string foundation, and cultivating a culture where students feel supported and connected. Listeners will also hear about her extraordinary alumni—now educators, orchestral musicians, and performers — as well as her continued work as a pedagogue, editor, performer, and doctoral student in orchestral conducting. This episode is a masterclass in longevity, passion, and the power of music education to transform lives. — SPONSORS AND REFERRAL LINKS — Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years.  https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com Want to find some classic repertoire or looking for something different and new?  Check out Keiser Productions! https://www.keiserproductions.com Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link: ⁠https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk⁠ Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track. ⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠ Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more! ⁠https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi⁠ Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠ #OrchestraTeacherPodcast #LauraMulliganThomas #MusicEducation #StringEducation #OrchestraDirector #CharlottesvilleHSOrchestra #ASTA #VBODA #MusicTeachersOfInstagram #OrchestraLife #Conducting #MusicEdInspires

    58 min
  2. 147. From College Leader to First-Year Teacher with Olivia Durrence

    Jun 19

    147. From College Leader to First-Year Teacher with Olivia Durrence

    Episode 147: From College Leader to First-Year Teacher with Olivia Durrence In Episode 147 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux sits down with recent University of Georgia graduate Olivia Durrence to discuss leadership, service, string teaching, and the transition from college student to first-year orchestra director. Olivia recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from UGA with a degree in Music Education, a minor in Educational Psychology, and an ESOL certificate. During her undergraduate career, she served as President of the UGA ASTA Chapter, helped revive the organization on campus, taught with the UGA String Project, conducted educational research, and gained valuable classroom experience through substitute teaching and student teaching in Gwinnett County. In this conversation, Olivia shares: Her journey from piano and violin student to passionate cellistLessons learned from exceptional music teachers and mentorsReviving the UGA ASTA chapter and developing leadership skillsTeaching with the UGA String ProjectOrganizing and preparing students for a performance at the GMEA In-Service ConferenceResearch on music education and language acquisitionNavigating the job search as a first-year teacherTrusting your instincts when evaluating teaching opportunitiesPreparing to begin her career at Lilburn Middle School Olivia’s story is a reminder that leadership, service, and professional involvement can begin long before graduation. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment to students offer inspiration for both future and veteran music educators. Whether you’re a preservice teacher, mentor, or experienced educator, you’ll find valuable insights in this conversation about growth, opportunity, and finding your place in the profession. #OrchestraTeacherPodcast #StringEducation #MusicEducation #ASTA #OrchestraTeacher #FutureMusicEducator #MusicTeacherLife #UGA #StringProject #Orchestra #MusicLeadership #TeacherGrowth #OliviaDurrence #MusicEducator — YouTube Link —  https://youtu.be/dKIOd8_UlNA — SPONSORS AND REFERRAL LINKS — Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years.  https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com Want to find some classic repertoire or looking for something different and new?  Check out Keiser Productions! https://www.keiserproductions.com Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link: ⁠https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk⁠ Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track. ⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠ Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more! ⁠https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi⁠ Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠

    32 min
  3. 146. ASTA, Advocacy, and the Future of String Education with Lynn Tuttle

    Jun 12

    146. ASTA, Advocacy, and the Future of String Education with Lynn Tuttle

    Episode 146: ASTA, Advocacy, and the Future of String Education with Lynn Tuttle In Episode 146 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux welcomes Lynn Tuttle, Executive Director and CEO of the American String Teachers Association. Although not a string player herself, Lynn has dedicated her career to advancing music and arts education through leadership, advocacy, public policy, and professional development. In this conversation, she shares her unique journey from flutist and educator to leading one of the most influential organizations serving string teachers across the United States. Topics include: The mission and impact of ASTABuilding professional networks through service and leadershipThe creation and success of the New Canon ProjectSupporting emerging composers and expanding classroom repertoireThe importance of advocacy in music educationASTA member benefits, conferences, and professional development opportunitiesThe future of string teaching and learning Whether you’re a classroom teacher, private instructor, orchestra director, or future music educator, this episode offers valuable insights into how professional organizations can strengthen your teaching, expand your network, and support the future of music education. About Lynn Tuttle Lynn Tuttle serves as Executive Director and CEO of ASTA. Prior to joining ASTA in 2021, she served as Director of Public Policy, Research, and Professional Development for the National Association for Music Education and as Director of Arts Education for the Arizona Department of Education. She co-led the creation of the 2014 National Core Arts Standards and has been a leading voice in arts education advocacy throughout her career. #AmericanStringTeachersAssociation #MusicTeaching #MusicTeacherLife #ArtsAdvocacy #OrchestraEducation #StringPedagogy #TeacherCommunity #FutureMusicEducators #MusicLearning #MusicEducationPodcast #MusicMatters #SupportMusicEducation #MusicTeachersRock #OrchestraDirector #TeachingStrings 🎻🎶 — SPONSORS AND REFERRAL LINKS — Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years.  https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com Want to find some classic repertoire or looking for something different and new?  Check out Keiser Productions! https://www.keiserproductions.com Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link: ⁠https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk⁠ Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track. ⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠ Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more! ⁠https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi⁠ Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠ #OrchestraTeacherPodcast #ASTA #StringEducation #MusicEducation #OrchestraTeachers #StringTeachers #MusicAdvocacy #ArtsEducation #MusicLeadership #TeacherGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #NewCanonProject #MusicEducator #Orchestra #LynnTuttle

    33 min
  4. 145. Conducting, Curiosity, and Continuous Growth with Dr. Selim Giray

    Jun 5

    145. Conducting, Curiosity, and Continuous Growth with Dr. Selim Giray

    Episode 145: Conducting, Curiosity, and Continuous Growth with Dr. Selim Giray In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux sits down with renowned conductor, educator, researcher, and author Dr. Selim Giray for a wide-ranging conversation about teaching, conducting, string pedagogy, and lifelong learning. Dr. Giray shares his fascinating journey from growing up in a musical family in Istanbul to studying and performing in the United States, eventually becoming Director of Orchestral Studies at the University of Mississippi. Along the way, he reflects on the mentors who shaped his career, the importance of strong fundamentals, and how technical mastery can become a source of musical joy rather than a chore. The conversation explores practical strategies for helping students embrace scales and technique, the value of research-informed teaching, and why every rehearsal should connect technical skills to artistic expression. Dr. Giray also discusses repertoire selection, advocating for both standard masterworks and contemporary composers, while encouraging educators to help students discover new musical voices. Additional topics include: Building effective practice habitsTeaching musicianship through individualized instructionThe role of curiosity and continuous professional growthChamber music, orchestral playing, and diverse musical experiencesInsights from conducting All-State orchestras and working with ASTA National Orchestra FestivalWriting textbooks and his current book project on violin pedagogy Whether you’re a beginning teacher or a veteran educator, Dr. Giray offers thoughtful perspectives on what it means to grow as a musician, conductor, and teacher throughout a lifetime. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with practical wisdom, professional insights, and a deep passion for music education. 🎻🎶 Guest Bio Dr. Selim Giray serves as Director of Orchestral Studies at the University of Mississippi and Chair of the American String Teachers Association National Orchestra Festival. He conducted the Georgia 11th & 12th Grade High School All-State String Orchestra in 2026 and the California High School All-State String Orchestra in 2024, and is scheduled to conduct the Florida All-State High School Honors Orchestra in 2028. Dr. Giray is the co-author of Fundamentals of Instrumental and Choral Conducting and author of String Methods for Beginners, and has published numerous articles on conducting and string pedagogy. #OrchestraTeacherPodcast #StringEducation #MusicEducation #Orchestra #StringTeachers #ASTA #Conducting #StringPedagogy #MusicEducator #OrchestraDirectors #ViolinTeaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #MusicLeadership #ArtsEducation #SelimGiray #CharlesLaux #TeacherPodcast #MusicTeaching #FutureMusicEducators #OrchestraLife 🎻🎶 — SPONSORS AND REFERRAL LINKS — Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years.  https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com Want to find some classic repertoire or looking for something different and new?  Check out Keiser Productions! https://www.keiserproductions.com Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link: ⁠https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk⁠ Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track. ⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠ Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more! ⁠https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi⁠ Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠ #OrchestraTeacherPodcast #SelimGiray #MusicEducation #StringPedagogy #OrchestraDirector #ConductingLife #MusicEducators #LifelongLearning #StringEducation #OrchestralStudies #ViolinPedagogy #MusicResearch #TeachingStrategies #MusicianshipMatters #ContinuousGrowth

    41 min
  5. 144. Denese Odegaard on Standards, Leadership, and Student Connection

    May 29

    144. Denese Odegaard on Standards, Leadership, and Student Connection

    Episode 144 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast features an inspiring and deeply thoughtful conversation with veteran music educator and national leader Denese Odegaard. With more than 40 years in music education and decades of leadership through organizations like American String Teachers Association and National Association for Music Education, Denese shares a wealth of wisdom on teaching, advocacy, mentorship, curriculum development, and the evolving future of music education. In this episode, Dr. Charles Laux and Denese discuss: Building strong relationships with studentsWhy advocacy is every music teacher’s responsibilityPractical strategies for classroom management and assessmentMusic standards, curriculum writing, and creative teachingThe importance of student voice, creativity, and improvisationScheduling challenges and protecting music programsTechnology, cell phones, and the changing educational landscapeWhy mentorship matters for every stage of a teaching career Denese also reflects on her years serving as National President of National Association for Music Education, her work helping shape the 2014 National Music Standards, and the many lessons learned from nearly five decades of service to music education. Packed with practical advice, honest reflections, and inspiring stories from the classroom, this episode is a must-listen for orchestra teachers, music educators, and anyone passionate about creating meaningful musical experiences for students. Tune in to Episode 144 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with special guest Denese Odegaard. — SPONSORS AND REFERRAL LINKS — Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years.  https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com Want to find some classic repertoire or looking for something different and new?  Check out Keiser Productions! https://www.keiserproductions.com Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link: ⁠https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk⁠ Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track. ⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠ Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more! ⁠https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi⁠ Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠

    1h 3m
  6. 143. Full Orchestra, Full Heart: Dan Scott on Building Meaningful Programs

    May 22

    143. Full Orchestra, Full Heart: Dan Scott on Building Meaningful Programs

    143. Full Orchestra, Full Heart: Dan Scott on Building Meaningful Programs In Episode 143 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux sits down with nationally recognized educator Dan Scott for an inspiring and practical conversation about building orchestra programs that last, creating meaningful musical experiences for students, and leading with passion over nearly three decades in the classroom. Fresh off receiving the prestigious Elizabeth A.H. Green Educator Award from the American String Teachers Association, Dan reflects on his remarkable journey growing the Jenison Orchestra program from just over 200 students and a single high school orchestra into a thriving program of more than 550 students across 9 ensembles and 4 full-time orchestra directors. Throughout the episode, Dan shares: How full orchestra experiences can transform students and programsPractical advice for starting and sustaining successful full orchestra collaborationsFavorite repertoire and arrangements for developing orchestrasCreative strategies for student retention and program growthWhy relationships and culture matter as much as musical excellenceThe value of improvisation, alternative styles, and creating opportunities for every student to shineHonest advice for young orchestra teachers navigating the early years of their careers Dan also discusses his passion for mentorship, leadership within Michigan music education, and the importance of creating orchestra classrooms that serve as safe, inspiring spaces where students can connect through music. Whether you’re a veteran educator, a young teacher building your program, or simply someone passionate about orchestra education, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical takeaways you can immediately bring into your classroom. Listen now to Episode 143 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with special guest Dan Scott. — SPONSORS AND REFERRAL LINKS — Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years.  https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com Want to find some classic repertoire or looking for something different and new?  Check out Keiser Productions! https://www.keiserproductions.com Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link: ⁠https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk⁠ Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track. ⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠ Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more! ⁠https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi⁠ Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠

    43 min
  7. 142. Movement, Freedom, and Healthy String Playing with Dr. Aaron Jacobs

    May 15

    142. Movement, Freedom, and Healthy String Playing with Dr. Aaron Jacobs

    Episode 142: Movement, Freedom, and Healthy String Playing with Dr. Aaron Jacobs In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux welcomes Dr. Aaron Jacobs for an inspiring and deeply practical conversation about string pedagogy, healthy playing, and the enduring influence of Paul Rolland’s teaching philosophy. Currently serving as Assistant Professor of String Pedagogy and Director of the UNM Music Prep School and String Pedagogy Lab School at The University of New Mexico, Aaron shares insights from more than two decades of teaching students of every age and level—from preschool beginners to collegiate performers and future educators. Throughout the episode, Aaron demonstrates foundational concepts from Paul Rolland pedagogy, including total body movement, the elimination of static tension, balanced posture, bilateral motion, healthy shifting, bow-arm freedom, and how movement can unlock both technical ease and musical expression. Listeners will walk away with immediately usable ideas for violin, viola, cello, and bass instruction, along with thoughtful reminders about how physical freedom directly impacts tone, artistry, and long-term player health. Aaron also reflects on his journey as a Suzuki student, his experiences building innovative string programs in Illinois, and his current work developing one of the country’s unique undergraduate string pedagogy degree programs at UNM. Whether you’re a veteran orchestra director, private teacher, or young educator searching for fresh ideas, this episode is packed with practical teaching strategies, philosophy, and inspiration that can transform the way you think about movement and music-making in the string classroom. Learn more about Aaron and his work at aaronjacobs.com. — SPONSORS AND REFERRAL LINKS — Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years.  https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com Want to find some classic repertoire or looking for something different and new?  Check out Keiser Productions! https://www.keiserproductions.com Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link: ⁠https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk⁠ Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track. ⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠ Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more! ⁠https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi⁠ Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠

    49 min
  8. 141. Rehearsal Energy, String Pedagogy, and the Future of Orchestra Education with Dr. Keith Dodson

    May 8

    141. Rehearsal Energy, String Pedagogy, and the Future of Orchestra Education with Dr. Keith Dodson

    Episode 141: Rehearsal Energy, String Pedagogy, and the Future of Orchestra Education with Dr. Keith DodsonIn this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux sits down with conductor, educator, and clinician Dr. Keith Dodson for an in-depth conversation about string pedagogy, rehearsal pacing, recruiting, conducting, and what it really takes to build thriving orchestra programs in today’s educational landscape.Currently serving as Director of Orchestral Activities and Assistant Professor of Conducting at Central Michigan University, Dr. Dodson shares his remarkable and unconventional journey from band student and saxophonist in Florida to orchestral conductor and violinist. He reflects on the intense dedication it took to learn violin later in life while pursuing doctoral studies at Florida State University College of Music, and how that experience continues to shape his teaching philosophy today.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Dodson discusses:* Why orchestra rehearsals must move faster than “TikTok attention spans”* The importance of teaching technical solutions—not just musical concepts* How individualized instruction can happen inside a full ensemble rehearsal* Why every orchestra director should deeply study every instrument in the ensemble* Building a growing collegiate string program through relentless recruiting and relationship-building* The value of programming contemporary music and collaborating with living composers* How commissioning new works can inspire students and strengthen music educationDr. Dodson also shares insights from his work as founder and music director of the Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley, his experiences conducting honor orchestras across the country, and his passion for mentoring future music educators.The episode also features discussion about rehearsal efficiency, student engagement, the post-pandemic resurgence of orchestra programs, and the evolving future of string education in America.Whether you’re a veteran orchestra director, young teacher, college student, or conductor looking for fresh rehearsal ideas, this episode is packed with practical strategies, inspiration, and thoughtful reflection from one of today’s most energetic voices in orchestra education.Topics Include:* String pedagogy and Paul Rolland concepts* Rehearsal pacing and student engagement* Conducting and orchestral leadership* Recruiting and growing music programs* Commissioning and programming new music* Music education mentorship* Building technical excellence in ensemble settings* The future of orchestra educationBe sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review for The Orchestra Teacher Podcast!— SPONSORS AND REFERRAL LINKS —Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.comWant to find some classic repertoire or looking for something different and new? Check out Keiser Productions!https://www.keiserproductions.comLooking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link:⁠https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk⁠Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track.⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more!⁠https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi⁠Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠#OrchestraTeacherPodcast #Orchestra #StringEducation #MusicEducation #OrchestraTeacher #StringPedagogy #Conducting #OrchestraRehearsal #MusicTeacher #KeithDodson #OrchestraLife #TeachingStrings #MusicEducator #StringOrchestra #ViolinTeaching #Cello #Viola #Bass #MusicEd #BandAndOrchestra #MusicTeaching #ArtsEducation #OrchestralConducting #TeacherLife #MusicPodcast #ClassroomTeaching #FineArtsEducation #ConductorLife #RehearsalTechniques #OrchestraDirector

    47 min
See All (159)

Trailers

5
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast is a show for string and orchestra educators at every level. Hosted by veteran orchestra director Dr. Charles Laux, each episode features conversations with master teachers, clinicians, composers, and leaders in music education. Topics include string pedagogy, rehearsal techniques, program building, recruitment, and sustaining a successful orchestra program. The podcast features practical ideas, real experiences, and professional inspiration and is designed to support orchestra teachers in and beyond the classroom.

Information

You Might Also Like