Open-Eared and Open-Hearted: Using Music as a Bridge for Student Well-Being

📘 Episode Synopsis

In this powerful and resonant episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Dr. Guiliana Conti—music educator, researcher, and Director of Professional Development at Music Workshop—to explore how music transcends curriculum and becomes a lifeline for student connection, regulation, and identity. Through personal stories and practical insight, Dr. Conti reveals the neurological and emotional impact of music on trauma-affected learners and how even non-music educators can use sound to anchor safety and spark belonging in their classrooms. This episode is a must for anyone looking to deepen the emotional tone of their teaching practice—whether or not they can carry a tune.

🎓 Resources for Listeners

• Music Workshop: Free Curriculum A culturally responsive, standards-aligned library of free music curriculum for grades K–8 👉 Explore Now
• Free Professional Development Courses Including the highly recommended Music for Social Well-Being PD for both music and general educators 👉 Get Certified
• The PERMA Model of Well-Being Learn how this five-part framework underpins Music Workshop’s trauma-informed strategies 👉 What is PERMA?
• Music Workshop Main Website Discover the mission, partners, and additional resources supporting music-centered education. 👉 Visit MusicWorkshopEDU.org