David Dockan

David Dockan is an Assistant Professor of Music Education at Louisiana State University (LSU), where he brings a dynamic approach to teaching and research in music education. Specializing in popular music education, general music education, Orff Schulwerk, and Modern Band, Dockan is committed to revolutionizing how music is taught in schools. His innovative methods aim to create classrooms where students engage with music that resonates with their personal experiences, fostering a deep, lifelong connection to music.

Dockan earned his Bachelor of Music (BM) from West Virginia University, his Master of Music (MM) from Kent State University, and his Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) from The University of Kentucky. He further enhanced his expertise by becoming a fully certified Orff Schulwerk teacher at the Eastman School of Music, an accomplishment that underscores his dedication to the Orff approach, which emphasizes active music-making and creativity.

Before joining LSU, Dockan had a robust career in music education as he taught elementary and middle school music in Prince George’s County Public Schools in Virginia. His hands-on experience in the classroom informs his approach to teacher training, where he strives to empower future music educators to design and implement curricula that reflect the diverse musical interests and backgrounds of their students.

At LSU, Dockan teaches courses in elementary music methods, preparing future educators with the skills and knowledge to excel in various music education settings. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of relevance in music education, encouraging educators to craft curricula that engage students by connecting with their musical worlds.

Dockan’s research interests are broad and impactful. He has published articles in leading journals such as the Music Educators Journal, The Journal of Music, Technology, and Education, and The Orff Echo. His work delves into music teacher professional agency, exploring how educators can cultivate a sense of belonging and effectiveness in their classrooms. He is particularly noted for his research on popular music pedagogies, which seeks to integrate contemporary music into educational settings meaningfully.

In addition to his teaching and research, Dockan is an active clinician and collaborator. He worked with Dr. Martina Vasil to develop an Orff Schulwerk and Popular Music Education Masterclass in 2022, a program that has been featured in various Orff Schulwerk teacher education programs. This initiative reflects his commitment to blending traditional Orff methods with contemporary music practices, providing a comprehensive approach to music education that is both innovative and practical.

David Dockan’s contributions to music education extend beyond the university setting, as he engages with professional organizations such as the Association for Popular Music Education and the American Orff Schulwerk Association. His advocacy for music teacher professional development and his efforts to enhance music education practices are central to his mission of transforming music classrooms into vibrant spaces where creativity and relevance are at the forefront.

Through his teaching, research, and professional activities, David Dockan is shaping the future of music education, ensuring that students and teachers alike experience the transformative power of music.