Episode 22: The Value of Creativity in Young Ensemble

This week’s interview features Matt Clauhs, an associate professor of Music Education at Ithaca College. Matt’s background includes degrees at Penn State University (B.S.), the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (M.M.) and Temple University (Ph.D.), as well as experience teaching band students at both the elementary and high school levels. As a jazz saxophone player, Matt has always been interested in incorporating creativity and improvisation in all areas of music education, not just jazz studies. Not only is it a positive and rewarding experience for students, creativity and artistic literacy are part of our national music standards. In this interview, Matt talked to us about a variety of topics, including How he starts beginning band students without method books or even music stands, Some quick, yet effective, creative strategies directors can incorporate in any rehearsal or lesson, How creativity benefits music students, and why we should work to cultivate amateur musicians, His advice to teachers looking to include more creativity in their rehearsals. Be sure to check out the full interview to learn more about how Matt infuses creativity and improvisation in his ensembles, along with some great anecdotes and inspiration! Creativity in Young Ensembles Connect with Matt and learn more: Matthew Clauhs | Ithaca College Creative Activities for Young Bands Get a free book preview here: Pass the Baton: Empowering All Music Students     For more info: Pass the Baton Free Download: 6 Questions to Pass the Baton and Empower Your Music Students  Free Download: Amplify Student Voice With Exit Tickets for Self Reflection