This hands-on session explores pop, rock, funk, and R&B charts that reflect students’ musical lives and cultural identities. Learn pacing strategies, explore culturally responsive rep, and build or expand a group with tools that support musical relevance, student voice, and authentic listening. Bring your instrument or device if you can—charts and learning materials provided.
This is a live reading session where attendees will sight-read pop, rock, funk, and R&B charts and explore how to select repertoire that reflects students’ musical identities. The clinician will discuss how to evaluate charts for stylistic authenticity, instrumentation, and appropriate challenge level for diverse learners. Attendees will leave with strategies for rehearsal pacing, integrating ear-based learning with notation, and building repertoire that supports musical growth and student voice. We’ll also discuss resources needed to support the learning of popular music, including charts, recordings, digital tools, and listening strategies. This session is designed for educators looking to build or evolve culturally responsive ensembles that are relevant, rigorous, and rooted in real-world musicianship. Charts and learning materials provided.
Target Audience
All music teachers currently teaching or interesting in teaching popular music
Additional Notes
Clinician Info
Danielle Collins
Danielle Collins brings 15+ years of experience in pop music education across public schools, higher ed, and CTE. She has taught at several universities, serves on multiple California arts education boards, and facilitates training in culturally responsive, student-driven programs. In 2023, she became the first educator to lead a high school pop group in performance and presentation at the Midwest Clinic. She will direct the NJMEA All-State Pop Music Honor Band in 2026.