104 - Getting Out of the Way: How Teachers Can Spark Musical Curiosity, with Amelia Armstrong

In episode 104, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with high school music educator Amelia Armstrong to explore what student-centered teaching can look like in real classrooms. Amelia shares her 22-year journey at Platteville High School in Wisconsin, where she has expanded a traditional choir program into a vibrant, inclusive music department that includes guitar, digital audio production, and flexible general music offerings. Throughout the conversation, Amelia reflects on learning alongside her students, embracing discomfort, and letting go of the idea that teachers must always be the expert. Her stories highlight how curiosity, modeling lifelong learning, and responding to student interests have helped her reach students who might not otherwise enroll in music classes.

The conversation dives deeply into practical strategies for student-centered learning, including choice-based assessments, differentiation through voice and choice, and creating classroom cultures where students feel empowered to contribute ideas, identify challenges, and advocate for their needs. Amelia describes how small shifts—like letting students choose repertoire order, tempos, assessment formats, or warm-ups—can lead to greater ownership and engagement without sacrificing rigor. She also emphasizes the importance of curiosity, reflection, and representation in music education, showing how these approaches prepare students not just as musicians, but as thoughtful, confident humans. This episode is full of concrete ideas and inspiration for educators looking to make their classrooms more responsive, inclusive, and joyful.

Connect with Amelia and learn more:

• Instagram - @AmeliaArmstrong639
• School website - Platteville School District
• Wisconsin Music Educators Association
• Wisconsin Choral Directors Association

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