Session Proposals

Dr. Michael Francis Smith is a music educator, author, composer, and nationally recognized speaker whose work centers on reclaiming participation in music through singing, playing, and creating. He is the creator of It’s Time to Play and presents nationally on sound-first, student-centered approaches to music learning. Learn more at mfsmithmusic.com.

This lively, hands-on session invites participants to sing, play, improvise, create, and make music together through a sound-first, participatory approach. Participants are encouraged to bring a ukulele and/or recorder (a limited number of recorders will be available) and come ready to actively make music from the very beginning.
Recorder and ukulele are widely used in general music, yet they are often limited to note reading and basic chord playing. We can continue to deepen student engagement, expand access, and create more meaningful music-making experiences for all learners.Participants will leave with immediately applicable ideas to expand participation, support diverse learners, and foster creativity in general music settings.

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