In this 40th episode of ArtScene | The Podcast, Michael Bell sits down with Bayrex Hernandez, music teacher at Matapeake Elementary. Growing up in Puerto Rico in a family where education and music were the heartbeat of daily life, Bayrex now brings that same energy and vision to Queen Anne’s County. From launching Matapeake’s first outdoor concert to building a choir program with over 40 students, a band program where fifth graders can’t wait to perform, his story is about resilience, creativity, and helping students shine. Along the way, Bayrex shares how a simple mantra — “Don’t let the instrument control you, you control the instrument” — motivates his kids not just in music, but in life. Plus, hear how his students surprised him with an unforgettable Happy Birthday, and what legacy he hopes to leave in music education.

Erika Beyer teaches music to PreK through 2nd graders at Kent Island Elementary—and if you step into her classroom, you’ll likely hear a chorus of “🎵Hello, Musicians!” ringing out with joy. But her story is far deeper than call-and-response. In this inspiring episode of ArtScene | The Podcast, Erika opens up about her path from conservatory-trained trombonist and collegiate swimmer to master of musical play, classroom resets, and equity through creativity.

We explore how teaching during the pandemic shaped her use of tech and SEL, how motherhood has deepened her empathy, and why free play, tonal exploration, and silly microphones help her students feel empowered, seen, and heard. From student breakthroughs to inclusive performance strategies, and her first presentation for the Maryland Music Education Associaton State Convention, Erika shares how she builds a classroom culture rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and connection.

Join host Michael Bell (2024 NAEA National Supervisor of the Year) representing Queen Anne's County for a powerful live panel recorded at the MAEA Summer Retreat featuring Dr. Lisa Stuart Whitehead (2024 NAEA National Art Educator of the Year) representing Prince George's County and Gino Molfino (2021 NAEA National Supervisor of the Year) and 2024 Supervision and Administration Division Director-Elect for NAEA. In this candid, one-hour conversation hosted by MAEA President Rachel Valsing, three of Maryland’s most influential arts leaders discuss leadership, legacy, advocacy, and the future of arts education. Insightful, inspiring, and filled with real talk—this is one you don’t want to miss.