Session Proposals

John Jacobson is an internationally recognized composer, author, and master educator whose musicals and choral works have been performed by millions of children worldwide. For more than four decades, he has inspired music teachers and students through his creative artistry, dynamic presentations, and unwavering commitment to quality music education.
A celebrated leader in the field, John has written and produced hundreds of resources for educators—from musicals and choral collections to instructional videos, movement resources, and professional-development materials that have empowered teachers in thousands of classrooms. His work has been published and distributed globally through major educational publishers and platforms.
Beyond his writing, John has directed and staged large-scale festival performances across the country, including ensembles in partnership with Walt Disney Productions and other major arts organizations. His productions have featured thousands of young performers and have been showcased in prominent national events such as NBC’s broadcast of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
John is widely regarded as a “teacher’s teacher”. His workshops are known for their energy, inspiration, and practical classroom relevance—drawing enthusiastic educators year after year. With an exceptional ability to combine movement, music, and motivation, he helps teachers rediscover joy and purpose in their work.
John is also the founder of America Sings!, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting young performers with meaningful service opportunities through music.
Today, he serves as President and Creative Content Designer of JJ & Me, Inc., in partnership with Musicplay, where he continues to create innovative musicals, songs, choreography, and teaching materials for a new generation of educators and students.

Take your students on a musical journey around the globe—no passport required! In this dynamic, “feet-on” workshop, John Jacobson will introduce a vibrant collection of songs, dances, and games from cultures around the world, bringing global traditions directly into your classroom.

Experience the joy of folk dances, line dances, singing games, and interactive activities that engage students while deepening their understanding of music and culture. As you move and make music, you’ll explore how global repertoire can reinforce essential musical concepts while also fostering curiosity, respect, and appreciation for diverse traditions.

This session will provide practical, easy-to-implement ideas for incorporating world music into your teaching, regardless of grade level or experience. Discover how to create meaningful, culturally rich experiences that connect students to the wider world through the universal language of music.

Join us and explore how your classroom can become a gateway to the world—one song, one dance, and one joyful moment at a time!

• Lower Elementary (Grades PreK-2)
• Upper Elementary/General Music (Grades 3-5)