Music Education is Stuck in the Past—Lets Fix It | Kevin Droe | TEDxUniversity of Northern Iowa

What if the reason students are walking away from music isn’t because they’ve changed—but because school music hasn’t?

Dr. Kevin Droe, music educator and founder of Amp Camp, challenges the traditions that have defined school music for over a century. In a world where young people create beats, write songs, and collaborate online, most schools still teach music as if it’s 1950. Droe envisions a future where every student—whether they love rock, hip hop, pop, or country—has a place in music class.

Through stories of transformation and belonging, he reveals how modern band programs are reigniting students’ passion for music, fostering creativity, and making music education relevant again. This talk isn’t about replacing the classics—it’s about expanding the invitation so that every child can find their voice in the soundtrack of today. Kevin Droe, Ph.D., is Associate Professor of Music Education at the University of Northern Iowa. He founded the UNI Spectrum Project, AmpCamp, and Spectrum JamFest, programs promoting accessible and popular music education. His research focuses on special populations and innovative teaching. Kevin also leads workshops in modern band and music education across Iowa. In his spare time, he’s the drummer for Corn Riot, UNI’s faculty punk metal band. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx