Teacher Tuesdays is a new monthly professional development series designed to engage and inspire educators through the lens of American music and its cultural impact. Held once per month, each session will explore a different theme—ranging from history and social movements to songwriting, identity, and interdisciplinary teaching strategies—while providing participants with practical tools they can bring back to their classrooms. Programs will feature guest speakers, behind-the-scenes access to exhibitions and collections, and opportunities for collaboration with fellow educators. Participants will receive a certificate for 2 hours of professional development, making Teacher Tuesdays both a meaningful and rewarding way to connect classroom learning with the power of music. Held 6-8PM in the Center’s Powell Soundstage.
Attendees for this session of “Teacher Tuesdays” will come away with teachable lessons about the incredible life and work of Buddy Holly, whose extraordinary story still resonates and inspires near 70 years after “The Day the Music Died.”
Our guest presenter for this program is Kenneth Womack, Professor of English and Popular Music at Monmouth University. Dr. Womack has authored nearly 50 books. He is one of the world’s leading authorities on the Beatles and their cultural influence. His latest Beatles-related works include the bestselling books Solid State: The Story of Abbey Road and the End of the Beatles (2019), John Lennon 1980: The Last Days in the Life (2020), and Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans (2023). Over the years, he has served as an expert commentator for the BBC, NPR, ABC’s 20/20, Fox Business’s American Built, MSNBC’s Morning Joe, and NBC’s Access Hollywood.
Recommended Grade Levels — All Grades
Relevant Subject Areas — Social Studies, Music, ELA, Art, Media Studies
Program Format — multimedia, interactive presentation
What to Bring / Preparation — none required
