The Crescendo Music Education Podcast

Welcome to the Crescendo Music Education Podcast with Mark O'Leary, where we delve into the vibrant world of choral music with one of Australia's most esteemed conductors. Join us as we explore the artistry, passion, and transformative power of choral singing.  From the founding of Young Voices of Melbourne to his work with Gondwana Voices and beyond, get ready for insightful discussions...

Mark O'Leary is not just a choir conductor; he is a catalyst for positive change in the lives of children through music. With his passion, dedication, and innovative approach,  Mark has transformed countless young minds, nurturing their talents and instilling in them a lifelong love for music. Mark O'Leary Biography: Mark O'Leary OAM B.Mus. Ed M.Mus is a renowned Australian choral c...

Join us as we unravel Sandra’s composition process, discussing whether she starts with words or chords, and how this decision shapes the final musical arrangement. We’ll delve into the creative minds behind the music, uncovering their techniques and inspirations along the way. In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to spotlight the Queensland Kodaly Choir project, a remarkable initiative that celebrat...

As a conductor, you’re not just waving your baton; you’re unleashing a symphony of giggles, learning, and pure joy. So, grab your baton, put on your musical cap, and get ready to dive into a world where every high note is met with a chorus of cheers and every low note transforms into a learning opportunity. Music teachers, get your students ready to make music a fun-filled, harmonious delight with...

Discover valuable tips and tricks for enhancing your music room experience from our guest Clare Finlayson, an esteemed choral conductor, music educator, and vocalist. One of Clare’s tips and tricks is using sticky notes. Listen to this episode to see how Clare uses sticky notes in her classroom. About Clare Finlayson: Clare Finlayson is a distinguished choral conductor, music educator, and vocalis...

Making choir accessible to everyone and fostering a sense of community within the music community are essential aspects of creating an inclusive and enriching musical experience. By breaking down barriers such as logistical challenges and misconceptions about musical ability, choirs can welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds and create a space where everyone feels valued and empowered. This...

As our Wellbeing Series draws to a close, we delve into a topic that resonates deeply with many music teachers: the comparison trap. In an era dominated by social media, where success is often measured by likes and followers, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing oneself to others. This can be particularly challenging for music teachers, who may feel pressure to showcase their skills and ac...

As music teachers, we spend countless hours honing our craft, guiding students, and nurturing their musical talents. In the midst of our busy schedules, it's easy to forget the importance of staying active and taking care of ourselves. Incorporating movement into our daily routines not only benefits our physical health but also rejuvenates our minds and enhances our teaching. One of the simpl...

Let's talk about the powerhouse behind our music magic – our voices. We often get lost in the rhythm of teaching, but it's high time we give our vocal cords the attention they deserve.1. The Vocal Treasure2. Speak with Your Body3. Hydration Station4. Silent Leader5. And More! In this symphony of education, your voice is the lead. Take care of it, and it'll carry the tune for years t...

Hey, musical maestros! Ever feel like you’re conducting a symphony on an empty stomach? It’s time to hit the right notes when it comes to nourishing our bodies. As music teachers, our schedules can be as hectic, but fear not! Here are some tips to keep your energy soaring and your taste buds singing: Classroom Pantry Batch Cooking Brilliance Recipe Exchange Extravaganza Tune in to Healthy Snacks A...

Welcome back to our Wellbeing Series, where we delve into various aspects of our daily lives that contribute to our overall health and happiness. In this episode, we’re turning our attention to a routine that many of us are familiar with – the daily commute. Whether you’re heading to school, work, or any other destination, how you spend this time can significantly impact your well-being. Think abo...

As we embark on the journey of nurturing young minds through the language of music, it becomes imperative to recognize the transformative power of resting and recharging. In the harmonious symphony of our lives as music teachers, the crucial notes of rest and recharge often play a melody overlooked. In the words of Dr. Vernon Williams, a renowned neurologist, “Your brain uses sleep as fuel, like f...

It is with great excitement that we introduce our upcoming Wellbeing Series, a transformative journey into the realms of self-care and fulfillment in the field of music education. Over the next seven episodes, we have the privilege of delving into the world of wellbeing for music teachers, guided by the expertise and wisdom of our guest, Ms. Beth Duhon. With over two decades of enriching experienc...

Hey fellow music enthusiasts! Strap in for a wild ride through the wonderland of 2023, where the beats are fresh, the melodies are contagious, and the music room is bursting with creativity! I’ve been on a musical rollercoaster this year, trying out some groovy tunes and activities that will have you tapping your toes and dancing like no one’s watching. From the infectious “Hop and Stop” song to t...

Meet Jessica, the powerhouse of passion and innovation in the world of music education! Starting her journey in the middle of a school year at a low-income elementary school in Tulsa, OK, Jessica faced a monumental challenge: reigniting a music program that had been dormant for a staggering seven years. Undeterred, she embraced the challenge with gusto and, in just her second year, emerged victori...

And now for the second part of our interviews with members of the Kodály Qld Committee! These committees aren’t your average meetings; they’re a vibrant hub of creativity, innovation, and camaraderie. Imagine a space where you can brainstorm new teaching techniques, swap melodic secrets, and share your passion for music with fellow educators who understand your musical quirks and whims. Interviewe...

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts and educators! Are you ready to embark on a musical journey filled with collaboration, friendships, and oodles of fun? Well, look no further, because we’re about to dive into the wonderful world of Kodály Committees, where every music teacher should definitely be a part of the harmonious action! So, grab your conductor’s baton and get ready to join the melody-ma...

Get ready for the encore because we’ve got the one and only Peter Boonshaft back for part two of the musical extravaganza! In case you missed it, Peter is the maestro of music education, the rock star of inspiration, and the embodiment of all things melodious. With a musical journey that’s taken him to every nook and cranny of the USA and beyond, Peter’s passion for music continues to be an absolu...

Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to be blown away by the musical whirlwind that is Peter Boonshaft! Peter Boonshaft is like a burst of pure musical joy, and he’s here to make your heart sing and your spirit dance. Not only has he graced every corner of the United States with his wisdom and expertise, but he’s also left his indelible mark on international stages. That’s right, folks, his passion for...

In a world where music and technology converge, join us on a captivating journey of self-discovery and creativity with our podcast, “Embrace Music Technology.” In this unique chat with Vaughan Fleischfresser, we explore the harmonious blend of music and personal development, drawing inspiration from Stephen R. Covey’s iconic work, “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.” Here’s a glimpse int...

🎶 Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to meet the man who's making music magic from down under to up north! 🎶 Introducing the one and only Vaughan Fleischfresser! But don't let that last name scare you away; he's all about bringing the joy of music into the world.  Hailing from the sunny town of Kingaroy, Australia, Vaughan now calls the picturesque Peebles, Scotland, his home. And bo...

As music educators, we have the wonderful privilege and responsibility of nurturing the musical talents of our young learners. Among the many aspects of musical development, teaching children to sing in tune stands out as a crucial foundation. It’s not uncommon for some children to initially struggle with singing in tune, and understanding the reasons behind these challenges is key to helping them...

Imagine stepping into a classroom filled with eager young musicians, all ready to dive into the world of music. How do you keep their spirits high and their learning engaging? That’s where “Bin It” comes in! Here’s the scoop: Teachers jot down various exciting musical tasks on pieces of paper – it could be anything from singing letter names to singing lyrics. The twist? Once a task is completed, i...

It’s time to harmonize, belt out those high notes, and let your spirit soar with Together Sing! Together Sing is not your average sing-along event; it’s a week-long celebration that hits all the right notes for your mental well-being. We’re here to prove that music education and singing together can be your secret weapons for a happier, healthier you. Schools and community groups from far and wide...

Step once again into the vibrant world where the rhythm flows and melodies dance with Grant J Ward. A melody maestro from his very beginnings, Grant’s enchantment with music sparked at an early age, guiding him to piano lessons that became the gateway to his harmonious destiny. Studying at Melbourne Uni and later returning for DipEd, Grant’s musical footprint expanded across continents, with over...