Chris Drews has spent 15 years bringing energy, creativity, and joy into his music classroom. As the general music teacher for PreK–5 and the leader of mariachi and modern band for grades 3-5 at Stemmons Elementary in Dallas, Chris is on a mission to help kids discover how fun and meaningful making music can be.
Inspired by the happiness music gave him growing up, Chris now helps his students discover that same spark, empowering them to express themselves, build confidence, and become lifelong music makers. Stories like Chris’s remind us why music education matters. Behind every instrument handed to a student is a teacher creating opportunities for joy, connection, and growth.
Early in his career, Chris struggled to connect with older elementary students. “I was using all the traditional elementary Orff instruments and percussion, but the 6th graders just weren’t that into it.” Everything changed after he completed Music Will’s Modern Band 101 training.
Introducing guitars to his classroom transformed his teaching and his students’ engagement. “Now those 6th graders had something that made music class as cool as they were,” Chris says.
Chris has seen firsthand how music can empower students, especially during challenging times. One moment that sticks with him happened during the pandemic, when teaching went virtual.
“I shared a link to The Beatles’ ‘Here Comes the Sun’ with my third graders,” Chris explains. “One of my beginning guitar students took it upon himself to find the chords and learn the song. He sent me a video of himself playing and singing it. I was so proud, he wasn’t just learning guitar, he was truly making music. I have no doubt he’ll be a lifelong music maker.”
Chris credits his wife, fellow Music Will educator Beth Poquette Drews, with helping him continue to evolve as a teacher. “Although I helped her get started with Modern Band, she’s far surpassed me. She’s given me ideas and tips that have helped my modern band prosper.”
Chris also draws inspiration from his own high school band director, who nurtured his early love of Western art music, and from the Music Will network, which he describes as an inspiring community of educators.
When he’s not in the classroom, Chris enjoys woodworking, gardening, reading, and making music at home—often singing and playing guitar alongside Beth. His favorite genres span country, folk, old rock, and “legit” instrumental and vocal music.
Reflecting on his teaching philosophy, Chris says, “Whatever it takes—I use a mix of methods to reach kids from wherever they’re coming from, however they need to learn.”
And the impact is clear. Whether he’s helping students become confident “rock stars” or sparking a love of guitar that will last a lifetime, Chris Drews is proof that Music Will change lives.
We are deeply grateful for educators like Chris Drews, who bring passion, creativity, and heart into their classrooms every day. Their dedication helps students discover their voices, build confidence, and experience the life-changing power of making music.
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