The Crescendo Music Education Podcast

Debbie O'Shea
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Supporting, connecting and inspiring music educators.

  1. 3d ago

    200 Conversations, 65 Years and the Next Chapter with Debbie O'Shea | 200

    Welcome to a very special milestone episode of the Crescendo Music Education Podcast. Today, we're celebrating 200 episodes of conversations with passionate music educators from around the world. Over the past several years, this podcast has become a place to share ideas, celebrate successes, explore challenges, and highlight the incredible work happening in music classrooms every day. For this special episode, we're doing something a little different. The microphone is being handed over once again to Deb Brydon, who also interviewed our host, Debbie O'Shea, for Episode 100. It feels like the perfect way to mark another significant milestone as Debbie reflects on the journey from 100 episodes to 200. The timing makes this celebration even more meaningful. Episode 200 is being released on Debbie's 65th birthday and during her final year in the classroom before embarking on an exciting new chapter as a full-time edupreneur. It's a fitting moment to look back on a remarkable career in music education while also looking ahead to what comes next. Throughout this conversation, Deb and Debbie reflect on the lessons learned from 200 inspiring interviews, the generosity and creativity of the music education community, memorable moments from Debbie's teaching career, and her hopes for the future of music education. You'll also hear "small but mighty" ideas shared by members of the Crescendo community—simple practices that make a meaningful difference in music classrooms around the world. These voices are a reminder that while no two classrooms are the same, we're united by a shared passion for helping young people discover the joy and power of music. Whether you've been listening since Episode 1 or have only recently discovered the podcast, thank you for being part of this incredible community. Your support, encouragement, and willingness to share your stories have made these 200 conversations possible. So, join us as we celebrate this milestone, reflect on an extraordinary journey, and look ahead to the next chapter. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Together SingWhere 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

    200 Conversations, 65 Years and the Next Chapter with Debbie O'Shea | 200

  2. Aug 16

    Music Education, Democracy & the Skills We Build Through Music with Joe Elefante (Part 2) | 199

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is Part 2 of my conversation with Joe Elefante. In Part 1, Joe shared his journey as a professional musician, educator, and author. We explored why music education deserves to be valued for what it truly is — not simply as an activity, but as a powerful way to develop thoughtful, creative, and engaged human beings. In this episode, we take a deeper look at the connection between music education and the skills needed in a thriving community. Joe shares how the principles of jazz — including improvisation, listening, call-and-response, and collaboration — can transform the way we think about teaching and learning. We discuss how music classrooms provide students with opportunities to take risks, make mistakes, respond to others, and work together toward something greater than themselves. Joe also challenges us to think differently about how we advocate for music education. Instead of focusing only on what music can lead to, what if we celebrate music because it already has incredible value? This conversation is a powerful reminder that every time students make music together, they are practicing skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom. So, let’s jump back into my conversation with Joe Elefante. Connect with Joe: Website: https://www.joeelefantemusic.com/Book - An Endless KnotWhere 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

    Music Education, Democracy & the Skills We Build Through Music with Joe Elefante (Part 2) | 199

  3. Aug 9

    Music Education, Democracy & the Skills We Build Through Music with Joe Elefante (Part 1) | 198

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat — the podcast for primary music teachers who believe music has the power to shape not only musicians, but confident, creative, and connected human beings. Today, I’m joined by Joe Elefante — a pianist, saxophonist, composer, arranger, band leader, and music educator from New Jersey. Joe’s journey through music is a fascinating one. He has performed professionally as a musician, led ensembles, composed and arranged music, and now brings that wealth of experience into the classroom as a high school choir teacher. He is also the author of An Endless Knot: How Democracies Form the Citizens They Need, a book that explores the powerful connection between education, democracy, and the development of citizens who can listen, collaborate, think critically, and contribute to their communities. In this first part of our conversation, Joe shares his journey from professional musician to educator and explains why he believes music education is far more than an “extra” or an enrichment activity. We explore how music classrooms teach skills that extend far beyond music — including communication, teamwork, creativity, resilience, and the ability to navigate mistakes in a supportive environment. Joe also shares the people who shaped his journey, including his late wife, who was also a music educator, his parents, and his mentor John Leister, who helped guide him as a musician and teacher. Whether you teach primary classroom music, lead an ensemble, or simply believe in the power of music to transform lives, this conversation will remind you why what we do matters. So, let’s dive into Part 1 of my conversation with Joe Elefante. Connect with Joe: Website: https://www.joeelefantemusic.com/Book - An Endless KnotWhere 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

    Music Education, Democracy & the Skills We Build Through Music with Joe Elefante (Part 1) | 198

  4. Aug 2

    The Art of Session Etiquette with Tara Conahan (Part 2) | 197

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is Part 2 of my conversation with Tara Conahan. In Part 1, Tara introduced us to the rich tradition of Irish music sessions and explained how the unwritten customs of these gatherings help create communities where music can flourish. We also explored why stepping into an unfamiliar musical environment can feel both exciting and intimidating. In this episode, we take those ideas even further. Tara shares fascinating insights into the psychology of belonging and the ways anxiety can influence how people behave when they enter a new musical space. We discuss why clear expectations matter, how thoughtful guidance can help newcomers feel more confident, and what music educators can learn from the traditions of Irish music sessions. Although our conversation begins in the pubs and session circles of Ireland, the lessons reach every music classroom. We explore how teachers can create environments where students feel welcomed, prepared, and empowered to participate without fear of getting it wrong. This episode is filled with practical ideas for building inclusive music classrooms, fostering confidence, and helping every student find their place in music. So, let's jump back into my conversation with Tara Conahan. Links Mentioned in the Episode:  TED Talk with Louise KellyConnect with Tara: Website: https://www.sessionetiquette.com/PodcastWhere 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

    The Art of Session Etiquette with Tara Conahan (Part 2) | 197

  5. Jul 26

    The Art of Session Etiquette with Tara Conahan (Part 1) | 196

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat — the podcast for primary music teachers who want to inspire a lifelong love of music in every child. Today, I'm thrilled to welcome Tara Conahan, an internationally respected traditional fiddle player from Donegal, Ireland. For more than 35 years, Tara has been immersed in Irish traditional music. She is a founding member of the acclaimed She Fiddlers group and has dedicated her career to performing, teaching, and preserving Ireland's rich musical heritage. More recently, she's been leading a fascinating project called Perspectives on Session Etiquette in Irish Traditional Music, exploring the unwritten customs and traditions that help Irish music sessions remain welcoming, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone. In this first episode, we explore Tara's musical journey and discover what makes Irish traditional music so unique. We also unpack the idea of "session etiquette"—those unspoken rules that experienced musicians often take for granted but can feel overwhelming to newcomers. As our conversation unfolds, you'll notice that this isn't just about Irish music. It's about belonging. It's about creating spaces where people feel confident to participate, make mistakes, and grow. Whether you teach singing games, recorder, ukulele, or classroom percussion, I think you'll find surprising connections between Tara's world and our own. So, let's dive into Part 1 of my conversation with Tara Conahan. Links Mentioned in the Episode:  TED Talk with Louise KellyConnect with Tara: Website: https://www.sessionetiquette.com/PodcastWhere 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

    The Art of Session Etiquette with Tara Conahan (Part 1) | 196

  6. Jul 19

    The Upbeat Teacher: Mindset, Leadership & Wellbeing with Dr. Matthew Arau (Part 3) | 195

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is the final episode in my conversation with Dr. Matthew Arau. Over the last two episodes, we've explored mindset, purpose, leadership, and the choices we make each day as educators. In this final chapter, we focus on something that resonates deeply with so many music teachers: wellbeing and sustainability. Music educators are passionate people. We care deeply about our students, our programs, and our communities. Yet that same passion can sometimes leave us exhausted, overwhelmed, and running on empty. In this episode, Matthew shares practical strategies for protecting your wellbeing while continuing to do meaningful work. We discuss teacher burnout, mindset shifts, physical and emotional health, and the habits that help educators stay energised for the long haul. You'll also hear Matthew's "Nuggets of Fabulous" — simple but powerful actions teachers can implement straight away — along with his inspiring advocacy for music education and a memorable soapbox message that every music teacher needs to hear. This conversation is full of encouragement, wisdom, and hope. If you need a reminder of why your work matters and how to keep your own spark alive, this episode is for you. So, let's dive into the final part of my conversation with Dr. Matthew Arau. Links Mentioned in the Episode:  Songs:Feathers, Fur or Fins | Sugar Glider | Don SpencerSh-Sh-Sugar GliderTake the G.E.T. Leadership Quiz HEREJoin the FREE Upbeat Leaders Skool CommunityJoin the Upbeat! Leadership Academy Membership GroupConnect with Dr. Matthew Arau: Website: https://www.upbeatglobal.com/ Email: matthewarau@gmail.com FacebookLinkedInInstagramWhere 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

    The Upbeat Teacher: Mindset, Leadership & Wellbeing with Dr. Matthew Arau (Part 3) | 195

  7. Jul 12

    The Upbeat Teacher: Mindset, Leadership & Wellbeing with Dr. Matthew Arau (Part 2) | 194

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat. This is Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Matthew Arau. In Part 1, Matthew shared his journey and introduced us to the Upbeat philosophy — a powerful framework for approaching life and teaching with intention, optimism, and purpose. In this episode, we dive deeper into leadership. But not the kind of leadership that's based on titles or authority. Instead, we explore servant leadership, relationship-building, and the role music educators play in shaping the lives of young people every day. Matthew shares practical insights from his work with student leaders, music programs, and the Servant Leadership Association for Music. We discuss how teachers can foster leadership skills in students, create positive rehearsal and classroom cultures, and lead with both excellence and empathy. Whether you teach a choir, band, orchestra, or a classroom full of energetic primary students, this conversation offers powerful reminders that leadership isn't about standing in front — it's about lifting others up. There is so much wisdom packed into this episode, and I know you'll come away with practical ideas you can apply immediately. Let's jump back in with Dr. Matthew Arau. Links Mentioned in the Episode:  Songs:Feathers, Fur or Fins | Sugar Glider | Don SpencerSh-Sh-Sugar GliderTake the G.E.T. Leadership Quiz HEREJoin the FREE Upbeat Leaders Skool CommunityJoin the Upbeat! Leadership Academy Membership GroupConnect with Dr. Matthew Arau: Website: https://www.upbeatglobal.com/ Email: matthewarau@gmail.com FacebookLinkedInInstagramWhere 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

    The Upbeat Teacher: Mindset, Leadership & Wellbeing with Dr. Matthew Arau (Part 2) | 194

  8. Jul 5

    The Upbeat Teacher: Mindset, Leadership & Wellbeing with Dr. Matthew Arau (Part 1) | 193

    Welcome back to Crescendo Chat — the podcast for primary classroom music teachers who want to do their best work, love what they do, and keep showing up for their students every day. Today's guest is someone who has inspired thousands of music educators around the world through his message of mindset, mindfulness, and leadership. Recently, I had the privilege of hearing him speak in person, and I can honestly say the energy in that room was unforgettable. I'm delighted to welcome Dr. Matthew Arau. Matthew is an internationally renowned speaker, conductor, author, and the founder of Upbeat Global. He is the author of the bestselling book Upbeat! Mindset, Mindfulness, and Leadership in Music Education and Beyond and has spent nearly three decades helping musicians, educators, and leaders discover how to thrive both professionally and personally. In this first episode, we explore Matthew's remarkable journey. From his years as a school band director to becoming a global advocate for educator wellbeing, leadership, and purpose, Matthew shares the experiences that shaped his philosophy and passion. We also unpack the powerful concept of "choosing your upbeat" — the idea that before every performance, every rehearsal, and every day, we have a choice about how we prepare ourselves to lead. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, stretched thin, or wondered how to keep showing up with energy and purpose, this conversation is for you. So let's begin Part 1 of my conversation with Dr. Matthew Arau. Links Mentioned in the Episode:  Songs:Feathers, Fur or Fins | Sugar Glider | Don SpencerSh-Sh-Sugar GliderTake the G.E.T. Leadership Quiz HEREJoin the FREE Upbeat Leaders Skool CommunityJoin the Upbeat! Leadership Academy Membership GroupConnect with Dr. Matthew Arau: Website: https://www.upbeatglobal.com/ Email: matthewarau@gmail.com FacebookLinkedInInstagramWhere 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

    The Upbeat Teacher: Mindset, Leadership & Wellbeing with Dr. Matthew Arau (Part 1) | 193
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