In episode 97, Theresa and Kathryn talk with Chris Ricketts, music educator, curriculum leader, and doctoral researcher from Portsmouth, UK. Chris shares insights from his work across nine schools in the Bohunt Education Trust, where he focuses on curriculum development, student voice, and building inclusive, co-constructed learning experiences that reflect students’ real musical lives. He discusses the challenges of engaging students in music beyond the compulsory years, the role of teacher autonomy, and how authentic student choice can transform classroom culture.

Chris also reflects on his research and international experiences, including presenting at the Association for Popular Music Education Conference in the U.S. We explore practical ways to embed student voice—through songwriting, peer feedback, ensemble work, and co-constructed projects—and the importance of balancing autonomy with structure. Whether you’re teaching in a traditional ensemble or experimenting with modern band, Chris offers thought-provoking ideas and actionable strategies for amplifying student voices and making music education more relevant, engaging, and empowering.

Connect with Chris and learn more:

• Website: https://www.music-curriculum.co.uk/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.ricketts.35

Learn more about Pass the Baton:

• Pass the Baton website
• Join the Coffee Club
• Support Pass the Baton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection

In episode 96, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Rebecca Sensor, middle school choir director and president-elect of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association. Rebecca shares how her choir program transformed its traditional spring concert into a fully student-driven “Pops Concert,” where students select, arrange, and even mash up popular songs that resonate with them. From brainstorming on day one of school to building ballots of potential repertoire, Rebecca describes how giving students a voice in the process leads to deeper engagement, ownership, and creativity.

Throughout the conversation, Rebecca highlights the powerful impact of student choice—not only on concert performances, but also on students’ confidence, collaboration, and lifelong music-making. She also discusses how this approach has shifted her own teaching philosophy, the challenges and joys of balancing student ideas with practical rehearsal needs, and the little strategies that make rehearsals more meaningful. This inspiring episode offers both big-picture insights and practical takeaways for music educators who want to empower their students and make concerts more personal and memorable.

Connect with Rebecca and learn more:

• Facebook: Rebecca Cogan Sensor
• TikTok: (the real) Rebecca Sensor

Learn more about Pass the Baton:

• Pass the Baton website
• Join the Coffee Club
• Support Pass the Baton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self-Reflection

In episode 95, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Yogi “Y?” Guyadin, a teaching artist, musician, and “artivist” whose work centers student voices, creativity, and connection. Y? shares his powerful personal journey—from growing up surrounded by vibrant soundscapes in Queens to learning music through deep listening and instinctive exploration. He explains how his unconventional path led him to education, where he champions an approach grounded in student agency, multiple intelligences, and culturally responsive practices.

We explore Y?’s concept of cipher pedagogy, a model that invites collaboration, improvisation, and co-creation in the classroom. He emphasizes the importance of building environments where students and teachers can thrive through authenticity, emotional connection, and nervous system regulation. Whether you're a traditional music educator or exploring new territory, Y? offers a compelling vision for making music education more inclusive, joyful, and transformational.

Connect with Y? and learn more:

• Creative Expressions website

Learn more about Pass the Baton:

• Pass the Baton website
• Join the Coffee Club
• Support Pass the Baton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection