Franklin Willis, music educator, author, clinician and former instructional coach with Metro Nashville Public Schools equips teachers with instructional support and necessary resources to strengthen their professional acumen and enhance their classrooms.
Through his work, he has developed a passion in the cultivation of musicianship for young minds as every child has musical potential and deserves a music teacher who will see the best in them. Willis believes that music education is a vital tool to teach students about other cultures, create community, and inspire a love for learning. Willis has created and facilitated professional development sessions for music teachers of all grade levels sharing his unique and relevant teaching practices. Through his work Willis has received national recognition for his commitment to student learning, his passion for the profession and his innovative teaching practices. He is a three-time recipient of the CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence Award. (’16, ’18, ’19)
Sessions Offered at Midwinter Convention:
Makin’ Music with Maya! The poetry of Maya Angelou has inspired generations with wisdom, artistry, and realism. In this session Franklin will lead teachers on an exploration of Maya’s poem “Equality” through movement, speech, singing, and playing instruments. The purpose of this workshop will encourage teachers to utilize poetry as a basis for music making.
Be The Light: Cultivating a Safe Space Through Music Selection: As music educators we have a rich opportunity to build safe, inclusive classrooms through the literature and music we share with students. Planning ahead with specific attention to the five social emotional learning competencies (self awareness, self management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making) will support cultivating a safe space in our classrooms. This session will highlight elementary vocal repertoire that promotes empathy, resilience and community. Come ready to celebrate the JOY of singing.
Teach Me About Hip Hop: The use of Hip Hop music in the elementary music classroom is becoming more prevalent as music teachers attempt to keep students actively engaged in learning. Hip Hop music is continuously evolving and is displayed in movies, books, commercials, and a host of other arenas that our students consume daily. In this session, Mr. Franklin Willis will provide solutions and ideas on how to utilize Hip Hop music to enhance student engagement and cultural relevance in the elementary music classroom. The participants will also learn about the historical context in which Hip Hop was created and how that relates to students today. At the conclusion of the session, teachers will be encouraged to practice the strategies and ideas presented to create more diverse, inclusive classrooms that value the importance of Hip Hop music.