E161

Beyond the Concert (Part 2): Grading, Evaluation, and Repertoire Choices with Scott Jones

From Music Ed Insights · Hosted by Steve Shanley

2026-09-14·3448

Episode summary

In this episode of Music Ed Insights: In part two of this two-part conversation, Dr. Scott Jones returns with Steve Shanley and Alan Feirer to apply the idea of teaching for independence to the most practical – and often most emotional – parts of the job: grading, evaluation, and repertoire selection. Building on Part 1’s skill buckets and culture work, this episode explores: What grades should represent in a performance-based class Rethinking points for attendance, bringing an instrument, and “showing up”…

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Original publisher description

In part two of this two-part conversation, Dr. Scott Jones returns with Steve Shanley and Alan Feirer to apply the idea of teaching for independence to the most practical – and often most emotional – parts of the job: grading, evaluation, and repertoire selection. Building on Part 1’s skill buckets and culture work, this episode explores: What grades should represent in a performance-based class Rethinking points for attendance, bringing an instrument, and “showing up” Aligning evaluation with the individual skills that lead to independence How a focus on independence can shape repertoire choice and long-term planning Scott also shares how he has wrestled with these questions over his career and how his current grading approach reflects what he most wants students to learn and become as musicians. Become an Insider for ad-free episodes, early releases, bonus content, and more! https://musicedinsights.supercast.com/