Find Joey's new arrangement on GuitarCurriculum here:
In January, our Education team was invited to Brownsville ISD for a half-day of professional development. We spent time with their teachers, explored successes and challenges, and looked for ways to deepen connections with their students through meaningful music-making. Our host was Joey Juarez, a guitar teacher at Hanna High School. We had a chance to catch up with him recently to chat about his experiences.
For years, guitar teachers in Brownsville have sought awareness and a dedicated space, and this vision is now becoming a reality. Thanks to Sam Rodriguez, Brownsville ISD’s Instrumental Music Advisor, and ACG’s support, guitar education is receiving more resources and recognition. Mr. Rodriguez, despite not being a guitarist, has advocated for funding and resources, ensuring the value of guitar programs is increasingly acknowledged.
Brownsville is emerging as a hub for classical guitar education, with ACG providing crucial support for teachers all over Texas. Joey highlighted the new website as a game-changer, modernizing resources and offering a unified curriculum that makes lesson planning easier. This shift is particularly valuable in Brownsville, where guitar education has deep roots and now has the tools to support teachers, especially those with less experience.
Despite the growing interest in guitar education, awareness remains a challenge. Guitar programs often lack the recognition given to other school music programs like band or choir. To raise awareness, more opportunities for guitar performances and demonstrations are needed to showcase its value, ensuring that classical guitar gets the attention it deserves.
Looking ahead, Joey is excited to continue collaborating with ACG to improve resources for teachers. The new website has made lesson planning easier, especially for new teachers, by offering clear instructions and a supportive community. One important opportunity to further connect with and learn from other educators is ACG’s National Teacher Summit. This event provides an invaluable space for teachers to gather, share insights, and gain new tools for their classrooms. With the continued support of ACG, local leaders, and opportunities like the National Teacher Summit, the future of classical guitar education is bright, providing opportunities for teachers and students alike to thrive.
