The Crescendo Music Education Podcast

Debbie O'Shea
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Courses
  • Updated Biweekly

Supporting, connecting and inspiring music educators.

  1. AI in Music Education: Why Teachers Don’t Need to Be Afraid with Katie Argyle (Part 3) | 192

    2d ago

    AI in Music Education: Why Teachers Don’t Need to Be Afraid with Katie Argyle (Part 3) | 192

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is Part 3 of my conversation with Katie Argyle. Over the last two episodes, we've explored the role of artificial intelligence in music education. We discussed why AI doesn't replace great teaching, looked at practical tools music educators can use right now, and unpacked ways technology can help reduce workload and create new learning opportunities. In this final episode, we turn our attention to the future. Katie shares her thoughts on AI-powered video editing, transcription tools, and music generation platforms. We discuss emerging technologies that are changing how music is created, shared, and taught, and we explore both the opportunities and the challenges these tools present for educators. The conversation also moves beyond the classroom. We discuss how music teachers can advocate for AI tools within their schools, how to evaluate new technology thoughtfully, and why understanding AI is becoming an essential part of professional practice. Perhaps most importantly, Katie leaves us with an encouraging reminder: AI isn't something that's coming someday. It's already here, and many of us are using AI-powered tools every day without even realizing it. Whether you're excited about AI, cautious about its impact, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you approach the future with greater confidence, curiosity, and clarity. So, let's jump back in for the final part of my conversation with Katie Argyle. Links Mentioned in the Episode:  AI ToolsConnect with Katie: Website: midnightmusic.comMusic Tech PodcastSocial media: @katiemidnightmusicMidnight Music Community membershipWhere to find me:  Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb Support the show

    37 min
  2. AI in Music Education: Why Teachers Don’t Need to Be Afraid (Part 2) | 191

    Jun 21

    AI in Music Education: Why Teachers Don’t Need to Be Afraid (Part 2) | 191

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is Part 2 of my conversation with Katie Argyle. In Part 1, we explored the big picture of artificial intelligence in music education. Katie shared why music teachers don't need to fear AI and explained how these tools can support teaching while preserving the human connection at the heart of music-making. In this episode, we get practical. Katie takes us inside some of the AI tools and music technology platforms that are already helping teachers save time, create resources, and streamline everyday tasks. We explore tools for rhythm practice, sight-reading, audio editing, notation, and songwriting, as well as some of the limitations teachers need to keep in mind. We also tackle some of the bigger questions surrounding AI. What happens when students use AI to complete assignments? How can teachers redesign assessments to focus on process rather than just product? And what role might AI-generated music play in the future of music education? Most importantly, Katie offers a balanced perspective. She acknowledges both the opportunities and the challenges while keeping the focus on what matters most: helping students learn, create, and engage with music in meaningful ways. If you've been wondering where AI fits into your teaching practice—or how to navigate the changes ahead with confidence—this conversation is packed with practical ideas and thoughtful insights. So, let's jump back in with Katie Argyle. Links Mentioned in the Episode:  AI ToolsConnect with Katie: Website: midnightmusic.comMusic Tech PodcastSocial media: @katiemidnightmusicMidnight Music Community membershipWhere to find me:  Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb Support the show

    41 min
  3. AI in Music Education: Why Teachers Don’t Need to Be Afraid (Part 1) | 190

    Jun 14

    AI in Music Education: Why Teachers Don’t Need to Be Afraid (Part 1) | 190

    Today on Crescendo Chat, I’m joined by Katie Argyle for the first episode in a special series on artificial intelligence and music education. If the words AI and education make you feel excited, curious, overwhelmed, or even a little nervous, you’re not alone. AI is everywhere right now, and many music teachers are wondering what it means for their classrooms, their workload, and even the future of teaching itself. Katie brings a refreshing and practical perspective to the conversation. She often describes herself as an "accidental music tech expert," but over the years she has become a trusted voice in helping music educators understand how technology can support teaching without replacing the things that matter most. In this episode, we explore why music teachers don't need to fear AI. We talk about what AI can do, what it can't do, and why human connection, creativity, and social music-making remain at the heart of great music education. Katie also shares how her own teaching philosophy shapes the way she approaches technology. Rather than seeing AI as a threat, she sees it as a tool that can reduce workload, save time, and free teachers to focus on the work that only humans can do. Most importantly, this conversation isn't about the future. It's about the present. Many of us are already using AI-powered tools every day without even realising it. Whether you're AI-curious, AI-cautious, or already experimenting with new technology in your classroom, this episode will give you practical insights, a fresh perspective, and plenty of food for thought. So, let's dive in with Katie Argyle. Links Mentioned in the Episode:  AI ToolsConnect with Katie: Website: midnightmusic.comMusic Tech PodcastSocial media: @katiemidnightmusicMidnight Music Community membershipWhere to find me:  Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb Support the show

    34 min
  4. Finding Purpose in Music Education with Chris Munce (Part 2) | 189

    Jun 7

    Finding Purpose in Music Education with Chris Munce (Part 2) | 189

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is Part 2 of my conversation with Chris Munce from Choralosophy. In Part 1, Chris shared his journey through choral education and unpacked the deeper philosophy behind why music — and especially singing together — matters so much in the lives of young people. In this episode, we move into the practical side of teaching while still keeping that big-picture lens front and centre. Chris shares insights on assessment, rehearsal priorities, student engagement, and how teachers can maintain joy and meaning in the classroom, even when time and resources feel limited. We also explore inclusion, human diversity, and how music educators can build classroom cultures where every child feels valued and connected. One of the things I love most about this conversation is how honest and thoughtful it feels. Chris challenges us to think more deeply about what we teach, why we teach it, and what students truly carry with them long after they leave our classrooms. If you’ve ever needed encouragement to step back, reconnect with your purpose, and remember why music education matters, this episode will really speak to you. So, let’s jump back in with Chris. Connect with Chris:  WebsitePodcastWhere to find me:  Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb Support the show

    37 min
  5. Finding Purpose in Music Education with Chris Munce (Part 1) | 188

    May 31

    Finding Purpose in Music Education with Chris Munce (Part 1) | 188

    Today on Crescendo Chat, I’m joined by Chris Munce — choral conductor, educator, and host of Choralosophy, one of the world’s top music education podcasts and a leading voice in global choral education. Chris has spent more than 20 years as a choral director at Lee's Summit High School. He also directs Kantorei KC, a professional choir based in Kansas City. Alongside that work, he’s built Choralosophy into a space where educators explore the philosophy, purpose, and humanity behind music education. In this first part of our conversation, we dive into Chris’s story. We talk about the experiences that shaped him as a conductor, teacher, and communicator. We also explore why he started Choralosophy and what he’s learned from speaking with some of the world’s leading thinkers in choral music and education. This episode goes beyond rehearsal strategies and warmups. It asks bigger questions. Why does choral music matter? What does singing together do for young people? And how do we hold onto purpose when teaching starts to feel overwhelming? Chris has a way of connecting philosophy with practical teaching in a deeply thoughtful and accessible way. So whether you teach choir, classroom music, or simply care about helping students grow through music, there is so much here to reflect on. Connect with Chris:  WebsitePodcastWhere to find me:  Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb Support the show

    35 min
  6. Why Story Matters in Music Education with Kate Albury (Part 2) | 187

    May 24

    Why Story Matters in Music Education with Kate Albury (Part 2) | 187

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is Part 2 of my conversation with Kate Albury. In Part 1, Kate shared her journey as a choral educator and unpacked the power of storytelling in helping students connect to music in authentic and lasting ways. In this episode, we turn toward the bigger picture of music education within school culture. Kate shares practical insights from her work at Brisbane Boys' College, where she bridges classroom learning with co-curricular music programs and broader creative opportunities across the school community. We talk about advocacy, collaboration, and why music should never sit on the edges of school life. Kate also shares thoughtful ideas around engaging reluctant singers, combining art forms, and helping students feel a genuine sense of belonging through music-making. There’s so much in this conversation for primary music teachers — especially if you’ve ever tried to build something meaningful with limited time, limited resources, and a big vision for what music can do in a child’s life. Let’s jump back in with Kate. Connect with Kate:  Email - Where to find me:  Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb Support the show

    32 min
  7. Why Story Matters in Music Education with Kate Albury (Part 1) | 186

    May 17

    Why Story Matters in Music Education with Kate Albury (Part 1) | 186

    Today on Crescendo Chat, I’m joined by Kate Albury — choral conductor, adjudicator, workshop presenter, and a passionate advocate for creating meaningful musical experiences for young people. Kate is currently the Head of Co-Curricular — Culture and Enrichment Programs at Brisbane Boys' College, where she works across music, culture, and student life to build communities where students feel connected, creative, and seen. Her work stretches far beyond one school setting. Kate has contributed to programs including the State Honours Ensemble Program and the National Gondwana Choral School, and in 2026 she’ll lead the Treble Strand at the Pemulwuy! National Male Voices Festival. In this first part of our conversation, we explore Kate’s journey into choral education, the moments that shaped her as a conductor, and the people who helped influence her philosophy around music, belonging, and student connection. We also dive into one of Kate’s great passions: storytelling in choral music. How do we help students connect emotionally to repertoire? How do we make singing feel alive, meaningful, and relevant for young people? Whether you lead a choir, teach classroom music, or simply want students to engage more deeply in your lessons, there is so much wisdom packed into this conversation. Connect with Kate:  Email - Where to find me:  Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb Support the show

    32 min
  8. Music That Heals: Sean Martin on Trauma, Resilience & Creative Courage (Part 2) | 185

    May 10

    Music That Heals: Sean Martin on Trauma, Resilience & Creative Courage (Part 2) | 185

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is Part 2 of my conversation with Sean Martin from The Quarantined. In Part 1, Sean shared his journey—how his experiences as a musician and veteran shaped his voice, his purpose, and his connection to music as something far deeper than performance. In this episode, we go further. We dive into what music can offer young people who are struggling. We talk about creative courage—what it looks like to build something from nothing, even when the path feels uncertain. And we explore how honesty, authenticity, and storytelling can transform a music classroom into a space where students feel seen. Sean also shares what he wishes more adults would say to young people about hard things—and what music teachers can do, even in small ways, to make a lasting impact. There’s a lot in this conversation. It’s real, it’s thoughtful, and it speaks directly to the heart of why music matters. Let’s jump back in. Connect with Sean:  Website - https://www.thequarantined.com/FacebookTikTokWhere to find me:  Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb Support the show

    40 min
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3 Ratings

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Supporting, connecting and inspiring music educators.

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