In Episode 111, Meagan Thorup shares her journey toward building a music classroom centered on creativity, reflection, and lifelong musicianship. Grounded in the belief that she is not training professional musicians but equipping students with skills they can carry beyond school, Meagan describes how her teaching has evolved through continuous experimentation and student feedback. She highlights the power of incorporating composition into ensemble settings, walking through her process of scaffolded, collaborative class compositions that move from simple melodies to student-led arrangements. Through trial and error - and a willingness to listen when things don’t work - Meagan has created experiences where students take ownership, discover their creative voice, and feel a genuine sense of pride in what they create.

The conversation also explores how to cultivate independence through intentional practice and accountability. Meagan explains her shift away from traditional practice logs toward a more reflective, skill-based approach that helps students learn how to practice effectively. By integrating accountability partners, peer collaboration, and ongoing reflection, students not only improve musically but also develop habits they can apply beyond the classroom. Throughout the episode, Meagan emphasizes the importance of viewing teaching as a partnership with students - one where their voices, ideas, and experiences shape the learning process. Listeners will walk away with practical strategies and a powerful reminder: when students are given ownership and the space to create, they can exceed our expectations in meaningful and surprising ways.

Connect with Meagan and Learn More:

• Website: My Happy Teaching Life
• Orchestra Music: Starlight Tango
• Orchestra Music - Through the Fog
• YouTube Channel - Music Theory Pro Tips

Other Resources to Check Out:

• Book: Atomic Habits, by James Clear
• Book: The Talent Code, by Daniel Coyle
• Pass the Baton Book Study, VanderCook College of Music
• Episode 109: Programming for Agency: Choosing Repertoire That Empowers Students

Connect with Pass the Baton:

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