Professional Development
I provide international school music educators with tools for creating dynamic music departments. As an award-winning former Head of Whole School Music, I understand the complexities, challenges and incredibly rewarding outcomes of running a thriving international school music department. My research-backed techniques and frameworks for music department leadership, through-school music programming and performance (including musical theatre productions, whole-school orchestra concerts and pop music events) have helped music teachers and leaders all over the world.
Through-school Music Programming
Learn strategies to help build a context-rich through-school (K-13) music curriculum in your international school.
Explore ways to effectively lead your music department, especially if you are working with a tricky mix of creative individuals!
Event Production
Work with Chris to develop frameworks for building impactful and inspiring Instrumental Programs, Concerts, Festivals & Musicals.
Apply for professional development with Chris
Fill in an application to see how we can work together
Feedback about Chris' work
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Chris has been able to gauge his audience's awareness about different things well and deliver his content accordingly.
The session was well paced, well structured and the articulation helped immensely.
A lot of resources were shared as part of this workshop that will help us to plan our music classes and make them even more interactive.
Niharika K
Music & Dance Teacher
India
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The discussion with Chris has led us from having no orchestral program in the school (except extra curricular) to running curricular orchestra programs in class.
The students really enjoyed his arrangements with parts for all levels. This has led to better personalisation, enjoyment and choice for students in KS3 music classes.
We have also improved uptake and interest in peripatetic lessons.
The students really enjoyed his arrangements with parts for all levels. This has led to better personalisation, enjoyment and choice for students in KS3 music classes.
We have also improved uptake and interest in peripatetic lessons.
Michael W
Head of Music
Thailand
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What began as a workshop proposal for our conference from Mr. Koelma quickly evolved to a full-out keynote address when I realized his background and presentation capabilities.
I cannot overstate how pleased we were with Mr. Koelma’s ability to develop a message that so beautifully matched our specific needs for the occasion.
As a service to international music educators, Chris Koelma is highly recommended.
Keith M
Executive Director - Association for Music in International Schools (AMIS)
Other places you can find Chris' work
Podcast host
Music Teachers in International Schools Podcast. Join the fortnightly newsletter read by 200+ international school music educators.
Listen to conversations with music educators working in international schools across the globe. Learn from experts working in this space and get to know this incredible community of passionate music teachers.
You can also join the MTIIS Facebook community (1400+ members), bringing together music teachers from all over the world. Ask questions, share ideas and grow!
Founder
Beginner Orchestra
Beginner Orchestra aims to solve one main problem for international schools with an orchestra program - write and arrange orchestra pieces written specifically for beginners. No more endless searching through massive databases. No more constant re-arranging. My team of music educators all around the world test and review every single piece making sure the scores and play-alongs are perfect for a beginner orchestra.
Articles & Videos
Read my latest articles and contributions to international school music education, music education research and music curriculum resources.
© 2023 Chris Koelma, all rights reserved.