This episode explores all things pedagogy – we're joined by Jennie Henley, Andy Shoniker and Adam Whittaker to explore some of the big questions in Music education - How do we teach Music? Is there a ‘best’ approach? What techniques help educators and those learning music access the most intellectual growth, musical progression and happiness?

Find full transcripts, guest bios, as well as show notes, links and resources mentioned in episodes at https://www.musicmark.org.uk/podcast.

Following the launch of Music Mark’s ‘A Common Approach: Early Years’ programme, we discuss why early years music education is crucial for child development. Nicola Burke, Polly Ives, and Amy Campbell share their experiences and beliefs about the importance of music for young children, exploring how vital music education and exploration are, not just an enrichment activity, but as a fundamental aspect of child development.

Find full transcripts, guest bios, as well as show notes, links and resources mentioned in episodes at https://www.musicmark.org.uk/podcast.

This episode discusses the significance of a creative curriculum in music education, exploring student engagement, innovative teaching strategies, the impact of Artsmark, and the need to build confidence in both teachers and students. The conversation also touches on the challenges of advocating for music within the curriculum and the importance of supporting teachers in their practice. This conversation explores the vital role of music education in schools, emphasising the importance of a well-structured curriculum that fosters progression and inclusivity. The speakers discuss enriching the curriculum with music, building a culture of music within schools, and the significance of collaboration with music hubs and community resources. They share inspiring outcomes from creative music education, highlighting how music can transform students' lives and foster a sense of belonging and joy.

Find full transcripts, guest bios, as well as show notes, links and resources mentioned in episodes at https://www.musicmark.org.uk/podcast.

To launch Series Two, join us on stage at the Music Mark Conference (recorded live in November 2025).

In this live recording, the Music Mark podcast team are joined by Rachel Hawker, Director of Education at Rocksteady Music School, David Rees, Chief Executive of Merton Music Foundation, Bridget Rennie, Executive Director at Mahogony Opera and Caro C from Delia Derbyshire Day to discuss educational excellence at primary school, the transformative impact of music at this level and how they get the best out of the young people they work with.

Find full transcripts, guest bios, as well as show notes, links and resources mentioned in episodes at https://www.musicmark.org.uk/podcast.

To round off series one, join the Music Mark team as they review 2025 with their personal and professional highlights from the last 12 months.

In this month’s episode, we explore how low-income backgrounds might create or perpetuate barriers for young people to get involved with and pursue music, with a particular focus on instrumental tuition. We’re joined by Jo Yee Cheung from Olympias Music Foundation, Katie Walker from Young Sounds UK, and Chris Guénault from Future Talent to hear how each of their organisations is working to break down these barriers and create more opportunities for young people to access music education.

Find full transcripts, guest bios, as well as show notes, links and resources mentioned in episodes at https://www.musicmark.org.uk/podcast.

Recorded on World Mental Health Day, Rachael Perrin and Alex Theophilus discuss the challenges faced by young people today and how music can serve as an effective tool to support mental health. Together, we explore how educators can ensure they look after their own mental health and why it remains such an important topic to keep discussing.

Find full transcripts, guest bios, as well as show notes, links and resources mentioned in episodes at https://www.musicmark.org.uk/podcast.

What skills can you gain from a Music degree? How can young people best prepare themselves for the application process? And what challenges are higher education institutions facing in the UK music education sector? Join us as we explore all this and more with three guests from university music departments and conservatoires – Hannah Thuraisingam Robbins from the University of Nottingham, Diana Salazar from the Royal College of Music, and James Prosser from BIMM University.

Find full transcripts, guest bios, as well as show notes, links and resources mentioned in episodes at https://www.musicmark.org.uk/podcast.