In this episode of ArtScene | The Podcast, host Michael Bell sits down with Church Hill Elementary’s Heather Efland — musicteacher, 2019 Teacher of the Year, and lifelong believer that “all children need a voice.” From her empowering “Good Morning” mantras to disco-lit rhythm lessons set to Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September,” Heather shares how joy, connection, and community have become the heartbeat of her teaching. Hearstories of student breakthroughs, school concerts that unite families, and the belief that music doesn’t just teach rhythm—it teaches resilience.

In this 40th episode of ArtScene | The Podcast, Michael Bell sits down with Bayrex Hernandez, music teacher at Matapeake Elementary. Growing up in Puerto Rico in a family where education and music were the heartbeat of daily life, Bayrex now brings that same energy and vision to Queen Anne’s County. From launching Matapeake’s first outdoor concert to building a choir program with over 40 students, a band program where fifth graders can’t wait to perform, his story is about resilience, creativity, and helping students shine. Along the way, Bayrex shares how a simple mantra — “Don’t let the instrument control you, you control the instrument” — motivates his kids not just in music, but in life. Plus, hear how his students surprised him with an unforgettable Happy Birthday, and what legacy he hopes to leave in music education.

Erika Beyer teaches music to PreK through 2nd graders at Kent Island Elementary—and if you step into her classroom, you’ll likely hear a chorus of “🎵Hello, Musicians!” ringing out with joy. But her story is far deeper than call-and-response. In this inspiring episode of ArtScene | The Podcast, Erika opens up about her path from conservatory-trained trombonist and collegiate swimmer to master of musical play, classroom resets, and equity through creativity.

We explore how teaching during the pandemic shaped her use of tech and SEL, how motherhood has deepened her empathy, and why free play, tonal exploration, and silly microphones help her students feel empowered, seen, and heard. From student breakthroughs to inclusive performance strategies, and her first presentation for the Maryland Music Education Associaton State Convention, Erika shares how she builds a classroom culture rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and connection.