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Summer Reading List
As educators, we're constantly pouring our energy into our students. Summer is a chance to refill that cup. For me, one way I do that is through reading. I love discovering books that inspire fresh thinking, offer practical ideas, or simply remind me why I love teaching music. While I won't be spending my entire summer thinking about school, I always enjoy bringing back a few new insights for the year ahead.
Here are the books on my reading list this summer:
The Stalagmite Effect
Debbie O'Shea
The Stalagmite Effect is a refreshing reminder that meaningful growth doesn't happen all at once—it happens through small, consistent actions over time. Through personal stories and practical strategies, author Debbie O'Shea explores how tiny steps can lead to lasting change in our teaching, leadership, and personal lives. For music teachers, it's a reminder that the skills we build in our students, and in ourselves, are developed one lesson, one rehearsal, and one small success at a time. It's an encouraging read for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by big goals or wondered if their efforts are making a difference.
Purchase Directly: Balboa Press
Making Musicians
Allison Wikinson
Making Musicians by Allison Wilkinson explores the powerful connection between music, the brain, and psychology through the lens of Emotionally Intelligent Music Instruction (EIMI). Grounded in the belief that all humans are musicians, this book offers practical strategies for creating joyful, engaging music experiences that help every student succeed. For music teachers, it's an inspiring reminder that fostering a love of music is just as important as developing musical skills.
Music in the Inclusive Classroom
Melody McGrath Taylor
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If you're looking for ways to better support all learners in your music classroom, Music in the Inclusive Classroom is a valuable reference. Filled with practical strategies and easy-to-access information, it helps teachers create musical experiences where every student can participate and thrive. As a bonus, MusicplayOnline subscribers already have access to this resource—it’s available in the Lesson Planning section, ready whenever you need it.
Music in the Inclusive Classroom Link
What's on your summer reading list?
Hit reply and let me know what books have inspired you recently. I'd love to add a few more titles to my summer reading list!
Sing! Dance! Play!
Music Education is MONUMENTAL!
Washington, DC
July 10-12, 2026
Join us in-person or livestream for three days of inspiring professional development! Learn from Stacy Werner, John Jacobson, Katie Grace Miller, and special guests for 15 hours of engaging instruction. Get one-year access to all recorded sessions so you can watch anytime.
In Person - FREE REGISTRATION! (only 200 spots available!)
Live Stream with Recorded Access - $100
Musicplay Team Updates:
We wanted to take the opportunity to share some updates from the team:
Content Updates:
- Check again next week for future updates!
Development Updates:
- New Drum Machine interactive
- New Staff Lesson bass resources
- Support for 2 beat rhythms in Word Rhythm Composition tool
- Added the ability to disable student codes
- Navigation now remembers the last open state.
- Notifications can now be dismissed more easily