64. Conversation with Dr. Rachel Dirks of Kansas State University about wellness, building community, and more

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Dr. Rachel Dirks (Ep. 64) Dr. Rachel Dirks, Director of Orchestral Studies at Kansas State University, is an active conductor, clinician, researcher, and teacher. In addition to her work with the K-State Symphony Orchestra, she teaches graduate and undergraduate string education and conducting courses, and applied cello. She has collaborated with orchestras throughout the United States, most recently in New York, Georgia, Hawaii, and Minnesota. As a featured clinician and educator, she has presented her research for numerous music education conferences within the United States and Europe. A Kansas native, Dr. Dirks holds cello performance degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and Bethel College, and a Ph.D. in music education, with an emphasis in orchestral conducting, from the University of Kansas. Her current research surrounding the mental wellbeing of music students and teachers is published in numerous books, periodicals, and online resources. She also serves as the current chair of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) Health and Wellness Committee. Throughout her experiences as a conductor and educator, her fundamental goal is to encourage musicians to seek and create community through music. You can contact Dr. Dirks at [e-mail]. -- For orchestra teacher resources and more information visit https://www.orchestrateacher.net -- Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information. Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast! Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262 — Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers? Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at [e-mail] for more information. ——— Please donate to Charles’ charity!! Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: * Funding scientific research * Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention * Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention * Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission You can learn more about Charles’ fundraisers and donate here: https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899

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