Brandy Crawford

Crawford’s innovative teaching idea, “Exploring & Discovering String Artistry,” is designed to revolutionize orchestra education at Pleasant Ridge Elementary School by incorporating cutting-edge music technology such as pickups, amps and effect pedals into an afterschool club, MELODY (Modern Electric Learning Opportunities for Diverse Youth). Students will explore new musical dimensions through droning, circle stringing, looping, layering, jamming, improvisation, composition and contemporary production techniques. This initiative integrates underutilized state and national standards across music technology, composition, theory, general technology, science and social-emotional learning. This initiative facilitates students’ seamless progression from middle school to high school, equipping them for opportunities in broadcasting, performance or music production and technology, providing a comprehensive preparation for today’s music industry.