S5 · E1August 29 · 1 hr 11 min
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What do you get when you put Chris, Phil, Peter, and Dr. Jennifer Hawkinson in the same room? A conversation full of laughter, honest stories, teaching wisdom, and at least a few moments where you'll find yourself thinking, "Yep... that's exactly what it's like to be a music teacher."
In this episode of Beyond Artless, we're joined by Dr. Jennifer Hawkinson, Associate Professor of Music Education and Director of the Symphonic Band at Concordia College. Jennifer has spent her career shaping musicians and mentoring future educators, but what makes this conversation so special isn't just her résumé—it's her ability to blend excellence with humility, high expectations with genuine kindness, and just enough humor to remind us that no rehearsal is ever completely under control.
From her years teaching in South Dakota public schools to preparing tomorrow's band directors at Concordia, Jennifer shares stories that are equal parts inspiring and wonderfully relatable. She reminds us that the best teachers don't have all the answers—they simply keep showing up, keep learning, and occasionally laugh at the chaos along the way.
What you'll hear in this episode:
How Jennifer's journey led her from the school band room to the college classroom
The mentors who shaped her—and why every great teacher stands on someone else's shoulders
What future music educators really need to know before their first day on the podium
Building rehearsal environments where students feel challenged, valued, and empowered
Why relationships will always outlast repertoire
The little moments that remind us why we chose this profession in the first place
Of course, it wouldn't be Beyond Artless without a healthy dose of laughter. Chris, Phil, and Peter swap stories with Jennifer about the wonderfully unpredictable life of music educators—those rehearsals that somehow survive flattened trumpets, questionable rhythms, and the occasional "creative interpretation" of the conductor's instructions.
Whether you're a veteran teacher, a future music educator, or someone who simply appreciates the people who make school music programs come alive, this episode feels like sitting around the table with friends who just happen to care deeply about making music—and making people better through it.
Jennifer's passion is contagious, her perspective is refreshing, and her heart for students shines through every story she tells.
Join us for a conversation filled with wisdom, warmth, a few laughs, and a reminder that while music may not solve every problem, it certainly makes the journey a whole lot better. That's what happens Beyond Artless.
SHOW CREDITS:
WALTON Coronation March, “Crown Imperial” - "The President's Own" United States Marine Band
Performed on April 2, 2023, at Northern Virginia Community College's Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center in Alexandria, Va., as part of a concert titled "Sacred Hymns, Songs, and Sounds."
William Walton's Coronation March, “Crown Imperial”
transcribed by William Duthoit
Conducted by First Lieutenant Darren Lin
Program and notes: https://www.marineband.marines.mil/Po...
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