The Simpson College Music Department provides unique experiences for Simpson College music students with the presentation of one Music Education Workshop every semester, each led by successful music educators from across the country.

Teachers and graduate students from the community are also invited to attend, and should register using the link listed below.

These Workshops are interactive opportunities to learn about different methods, philosophies, and ideas of teaching in the field of music, and helps equip our students with many different ideas and skills to become fantastic and versatile music educators.

The Simpson College Music Education Workshop Series has been substantially funded through the generous gift of Stephen Horvath ‘03, in honor of Michael Patterson and in memory of Maria DiPalma, Former chair of Music at Simpson.  The workshops are also sponsored by the Kodaly Educators of Iowa.

Join us for this year’s
Workshop in Music Education:

SEPT. 21, 2024

Jana Martin, Presenter

Music of My Hawaii: Songs, Ukulele, and Cultural Context

Being the third generation born and raised on the island of Kauai, my musical upbringing includes a mix of my Japanese heritage and Hawaiian culture. This workshop will explore the varied styles of Hawaiian musical traditions including cultural context, and will explore ways to respectfully include activities from cultures that are not your own. Material for all ages will be presented, along with pedagogical connections, ukulele arrangements, dances, and literature. Repertoire will include Hawaiian music, as well as music representative of other prominent cultures in Hawaii and Hawaiian-style covers of popular music. Participants are welcome to bring an ukulele or guitar to play along!