105 - Curriculum, Choice, and the Path to Lifelong Musicianship, featuring Merlin Thompson

About this episode

Merlin Thompson discusses evolving curriculum models in music education to enhance student agency and lifelong musicianship.

In episode 105, Theresa and Kathryn welcome back longtime music educator Merlin Thompson, who reflects on nearly five decades of teaching and his evolving philosophy around lifelong music making. Merlin challenges the traditional, teacher-led “master–apprentice” model by introducing four curriculum models—teacher-led, student-led, shared, and neurodiverse—and explains how intentionally shifting between them can better honor student agency, diverse needs, and real-world musical engagement. Through vivid studio and classroom examples, he illustrates how student choice, leadership opportunities, and flexible pathways help learners build ownership, confidence, and sustainable musical habits that extend far beyond lessons, concerts, or exams. The conversation also explores how curriculum decisions connect to student wellbeing, motivation, and reflection. Merlin emphasizes the value of “structured excellence and productive messiness,” encouraging teachers to embrace experimentation, reflective practice, and small, low-risk shifts—such as inviting students to lead warm-ups, select repertoire, or revisit familiar music during high-stress days. Grounded in both experience and learning…

People in this episode

Hosts: Theresa Hoover, Kathryn Finch

Guest: Merlin Thompson

Topics covered

• curriculum models
• student agency
• music education
• lifelong musicianship
• teacher-led vs student-led
• wellbeing in education

Keywords

• music education
• curriculum
• student choice
• teacher-led
• neurodiverse
• musical engagement
• reflective practice
• lifelong musicianship

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Teach Music 21C

Books & works: More Than Music Lessons

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