Jazzing Up Your Music Program: Reignite Teen Engagement With Unison-Based Content

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Secondary music classrooms are increasingly challenged by student disengagement—especially when traditional models fail to resonate with today’s learners. In this compelling episode, professional bassist and music educator Richard Frank (https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardfrank/) introduces his Unison-Based Content (UBC) approach, a student-centered framework designed to revitalize music programs and re-engage learners of all skill levels.


UBC shifts away from the conventional jazz band structure, offering a more inclusive model that welcomes diverse instrumentation—including non-traditional instruments—and varying skill levels from the start. By blending formal (notation and theory) and informal (playing by ear) learning traditions, Frank creates a “blended space” where all students feel validated and empowered.


Educators will gain practical strategies for:

• Engaging mixed-skill ensembles with adaptable arrangements
• Incorporating tab notation and alternative instruments
• Encouraging improvisation through simultaneous group playing
• Promoting student agency through choice and music analysis
• Supporting SEL through confidence-building collaboration
• Connecting classroom music to real-world performance opportunities

Ideal for secondary educators seeking to refresh their approach or supplement existing programs, this method bridges the gap between traditional music education and contemporary student needs.


Explore ready-to-use resources at PlayTheGroove.com (https://www.playthegroove.com) and discover how UBC can transform your classroom into a space where all students groove—and grow.


???? This episode is CPD accredited! Educators can now earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) minutes by listening. To claim your certificate:

1. Listen to the full episode
2. Visit https://thecpd.group/podcast
3. Enter code 800130 to check in and download your certificate

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Great News! The Brighter Side of Education is now CPD Accredited! 


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Trusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily.


Head to the show notes to find if this episode is CPD eligible and details on how to claim your CPD certification!


Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMD (https://hasslerdental.com/)
Trusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily.


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If you have a story about what's working in your schools that you'd like to share, email me at lisa@drlisahassler.com or visit www.drlisahassler.com (https://www.drlisarhassler.com/) . Subscribe, tell a friend, and consider becoming a supporter by clicking the link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2048018/support.

The music in this podcast was written and performed by Brandon Picciolini of the Lonesome Family Band. Visit and follow him on Instagram.