Meet Suzanne Spencer, a 9-12th grade music teacher at the Arts Academy of Benjamin Rush in Philadelphia. With 14 years of experience, Suzanne has cultivated a thriving music program that fosters creativity, self-expression, and mental well-being. Passionate about empowering her students, she has created a space where they can discover their unique voices.
Suzanne’s path to music education wasn’t entirely straightforward. Despite coming from a family of educators, she initially resisted following in their footsteps. However, music’s undeniable pull eventually led her to pursue vocal performance at UArts in Philadelphia, and it was her professor, Maureen Budway who opened up her world to non-classical programs. There she discovered her love for teaching through private lessons and group rock band camps.
“I never fit the norm of anything which made me think I couldn’t be a music teacher because I didn’t fit that norm. However, that’s when I realized that is exactly WHY I needed to be a teacher. Music saved me growing up and I knew it was a calling to use music to help others.”
Suzanne first heard about Music Will’s modern band curriculum through her school district over a decade ago. The promise of a free class set of guitars for completing a weekend training was a compelling incentive, especially for a brand-new school in Philadelphia with no instruments. While she initially took the training, it wasn’t until she attended her first Modern Band Summit in Colorado about five years ago that she realized she had already been doing a form of modern band all along and fully grasped the curriculum’s depth and potential. Since implementation, she has witnessed an incredible shift in her students’ confidence. Witnessing their transformation as they learn, rehearse, and perform together is a constant source of joy for Suzanne.
Additionally, Suzanne has seen firsthand the transformative power of music. She’s seen students grapple with self-esteem and identity issues blossom into confident performers. One particular student stands out – a senior with exceptional musical talent who has overcome mental health struggles. Suzanne attributes music to providing this student with a vital outlet for self-expression.
“They discover who they are and not who their friends, family or society want them to be.”
Her vocal program focuses finding your individual voice as a solo artist and less on choral music. She finds “that when the students focus on finding out who they are as a musician/singer individually, they start to figure out who they are as people.” One of her most cherished experiences involves her seniors performing their final solo acts at concerts. They pick the songs, assemble their own band, and arrange the songs themselves, showcasing their individuality and musical growth.
Suzanne’s dedication is evident in her impressive achievements. She’s a three-time Grammy Music Educator quarter-finalist, a Lindback Distinguished Educator Award recipient (2019), was featured in an article for the Philadelphia Notebook titled, “Teaching to the Tempo of Mental Health” and a 2020 Music Educator Innovator Award winner. Her program’s positive impact on the community is undeniable.
Suzanne Spencer’s story exemplifies the transformative power of music education. By fostering a space for self-discovery, collaboration, and emotional expression, her program empowers students to not only find their voice in music but also discover who they are as individuals.
Help support teachers like Suzanne make a difference in their students’ lives by donating here. If you are a teacher and would like to learn more about our modern band approach and professional development opportunities, check out our Educators Page and get in touch!
