Raising Standards, Raising Musicians: Building the Next Generation of Musicians

In this episode of Classical Gassing, we launch a new miniseries on one of the most vital topics for Claflin Hill and for the arts: education.Host Bernadette sits down with Paul Surapine, Executive and Artistic Director of the Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra, to reflect on the role of education in music, culture, and community.Topics we explore:Paul’s first clarinet lesson in 1968 and how family support shaped his musical life.Why music education is foundational, not a luxury — it builds discipline, teamwork, and creative thinking.How arts education once flourished in U.S. schools, and the cost of today’s cuts.Lessons from Steiner schools, where music is a daily, essential part of learning.The dangers of lowering standards — and the power of teachers to elevate students.Why cultural education matters as much as science and technology for the future of society.This conversation sets the stage for upcoming episodes featuring Claflin Hill musicians who are also educators.👉 Share your thoughts, comment, and learn more at claflinhill.org.