103 - Expanding What Counts as Music: Embracing Popular Music in the Classroom, with Emily Langerholc

In this Episode 103, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Emily Langerholc—elementary music teacher, PhD student, and author—to explore what it really means to embrace popular music in the classroom. Emily shares how her early love for MTV and radio shaped her musical identity, and how discovering that popular music counts as legitimate scholarly work opened the door to her lifelong passion for bridging classical and contemporary worlds. She discusses the growing acceptance of popular music in music education, why it matters for student engagement, and how connecting classroom concepts to the music students already know can transform their understanding of theory, creativity, and musicianship.

Emily offers practical examples of how she integrates popular music into both elementary and secondary settings—from using familiar songs to teach meter and mode, to remixing classical themes, to empowering students to arrange, create, and explore music on their own terms. She also speaks candidly about the challenges: the limits of ensemble schedules, the reality that not every student will be hooked by pop music, and the ongoing work of reaching the “other 80%.” Throughout the conversation, Emily emphasizes the bigger goal: helping students see themselves as musicians beyond the classroom and cultivating lifelong music-making in whatever form it takes. Tune in for inspiration, concrete ideas, and a fresh perspective on expanding what counts as music in our programs.

Connect with Emily and learn more:

• Blog - Rebel Music Teacher
• eBook - Guide to Teachable Features in Popular Music
• Physical Book - Guide to Teachable Features in Popular Music

Learn more about Pass the Baton:

• Pass the Baton website
• Join the Coffee Club
• Support Pass the Baton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection