David Davis

David Davis is an instrumental and general music educator in Minnesota, nationally recognized for his non-traditional, student-centered approach to music education. His work has earned recognition including GRAMMY Music Educator Award semifinalist (top 25 nationwide), Yamaha “40 Under 40” Music Educator of Excellence, and Minnesota Teacher of the Year semifinalist.

With K–12 experience across Virginia, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, David designs culturally responsive, research-based learning environments that challenge outdated norms. His self-designed curriculum emphasizes student voice, project-based learning, and holistic music literacy—including improvisation, composition, and inclusive ensemble practices where all instruments and genres are welcome, from clarinets to Grooveboxes. As a LETRS-trained educator, he integrates science of reading principles to align music literacy instruction with how the brain actually learns.

David’s definition of innovation goes beyond simply launching new programs. He believes true innovation means dismantling systemic barriers and designing for the students in front of us—not the traditions behind us. His classroom work is rooted in this belief—and so is his advocacy.

He serves as one of 17 national teacher leaders through the Connected Arts Network, leads the Minnesota Changemakers in Music Education project through the Minnesota Department of Education, and is a lead music curriculum consultant in his district. As a Minnesota Advocacy Captain for NAfME’s Hill Day, he has taken this mission to Washington, D.C., and has also spoken at the Minnesota State Senate in support of arts funding.

David shares his work widely—presenting at MEA conventions, the International Music Education Summit (IMES), and through publications in Teaching Music, ASCD, Yamaha Educator Suite, MMEA’s Interval journal, and appearances on NBC4 News and various music education podcasts.

Outside the classroom, he is a performing saxophonist, published arranger, and board member for both MMEA and the Rock ‘n’ Read Project. As a member of the NAfME Council for Innovations, David brings a relentless commitment to rethinking music education at every level—ensuring it is inclusive, relevant, and built for the future. (2025)