Sarah McKoin

2026-02-28

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Send a textIn this episode of Beyond Artless, we welcome Dr. Sarah McKoin, educator, conductor, and scholar at Texas Tech University, for a conversation that blends musicianship, mentorship, and corndogs.Dr. McKoin shares her path into higher education and conducting, reflecting on the moments and mentors that shaped her voice as a teacher and musician. From leading ensembles to preparing future musicians, she speaks candidly about the responsibility—and joy—of guiding students toward artistry, confidence, and curiosity. What you’...

Send a text

In this episode of Beyond Artless, we welcome Dr. Sarah McKoin, educator, conductor, and scholar at Texas Tech University, for a conversation that blends musicianship, mentorship, and corndogs.

Dr. McKoin shares her path into higher education and conducting, reflecting on the moments and mentors that shaped her voice as a teacher and musician. From leading ensembles to preparing future musicians, she speaks candidly about the responsibility—and joy—of guiding students toward artistry, confidence, and curiosity.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

Dr. McKoin’s journey to Texas Tech and the collegiate podium
The role of mentorship in shaping meaningful musical careers
Building ensemble culture rooted in trust and excellence
Balancing artistry, scholarship, and leadership
How to meet famous musicians while eating corndogs
How to make a great free-throw under pressure!

This conversation is thoughtful, grounded, and deeply encouraging—reminding us that great teaching is as much about listening and learning as it is about leading.

CREDITS:

DAHL Sinfonietta: Introduction and Rondo - "The President's Own" U.S. Marine Band https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xo2nBmPQXPo

Hindemith's Symphony in B-flat | The U.S. Army Band https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpgXXcAcNQ4

Inland Ocean - Viet Cuong (for Grade 2.5 Concert Band) Reading by the West Chester University Wind Ensemble, Dr. Andrew Yozviak, conductor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaB6dSEtS8A

Patiala Pulse by Shruthi Rajasekar. Concert band Grade 4 Murphy Music Presshttps://murphymusicpress.com/products/cb3-1,045

OPENING SOON:

2027 BEYOND THE NOTES MUSIC FESTIVAL REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 9 AT 8:00 PM. Learn more at: https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/

REGISTER NOW:

BUILDING BETTER BANDS DAY (MAY 23):

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education

RISING MUSIC EDUCATOR PROGRAM (MAY 22):

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education

FREE MUSIC:

Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”)

https://dp

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