Undergraduate music education majors consistently state that the most valuable aspect of a curriculum is actual teaching experience, but creating these experiences can provide challenges. This presentation discusses our approach to experiential learning in an undergraduate music program where students complete peer teaching experiences through a collaborative environment in a university band setting. We will discuss prepping students, picking repertoire, giving feedback, and overcoming obstacles
Abigayle Gerdes
- Biographical Information
Abigayle Gerdes is an instrumental conductor at San Diego State University as well as in the K-12 public schools. Originally from Northwestern Pennsylvania, Abbie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and a Master of Music degree in Conducting from San Diego State University (SDSU).
Professor Gerdes has been the director of the SDSU Concert Band since Spring of 2016. Under her direction the ensemble has performed works by living, BIPOC, and underrepresented composers as well as giving premiere performances of commissioned works for the group.
Abbie teaches full time instrumental music in the Ramona Unified School District where she directs the concert and marching bands. Her students have participated in research studies focused on the effects of mindfulness routines in band rehearsals, the results of which have been published in Applications of Research in Music Education. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she is a member of National Association for Music Education, College Band Directors Association, and the California Music Educators Association.
Karen Koner, Associate Professor and coordinator of music education, has been a faculty member at San Diego State University since Fall 2018. As a specialist in instrumental music education, she teaches undergraduate courses focusing on K-12 teaching strategies, rehearsal techniques, lesson planning, and curriculum. Dr. Koner holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction in Music Education from the University of Maryland, as well as additional degree from the University of Arizona.
Dr. Koner’s research interests encompass topics related to music teacher education, with a particular interest in current practices, trends, and needs of K-12 music educators. She has presented her research and work internationally and nationally through music education professional conferences in Glasgow, Scotland, Tel Aviv, and throughout the United States. Dr. Koner’s research can be found in journals such as the Update: Applications of Research in Music Education and International Journal of Music Education.
Additionally, Dr. Koner can be found in her spare time instructing yoga, with a specialty in Restorative, Yin, & Chair Yoga practices. She enjoys combining her love of yoga and music teacher training by working with musicians and educators on techniques to increase health awareness in the music classroom.