Embedded Files
Odell Zeigler IV
Odell Zeigler IV
"Odell Zeigler, IV, is the Director of Choirs at the Visual & Performing Arts Academy at Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk, Virginia. He conducts the Concert Choir, Women’s Chorale, Men’s Chorus, and Mixed Chorus, inspiring students through dynamic and engaging musical instruction. In addition to teaching Music Appreciation and AP Music Theory, Odell also brings his leadership skills to the court as the Head JV Boys Basketball Coach.
An active adjudicator, clinician, and public speaker, Odell is increasingly recognized as a leading voice in choral music and education. He has presented research at prestigious All-State and All-Region conferences across 15 states and has been featured as a headlining clinician in two states. In 2020, Odell hosted a national virtual choir conference via Zoom, one of the first of its kind in the choral field, demonstrating an innovative approach to connecting and supporting directors during a time when the profession was forced to adapt.
Odell is an accomplished writer, with articles published in prestigious outlets such as Teaching Music Magazine (NAfME), the Iowa Music Educator Journal, the Massachusetts Music Educator Journal, the Rhode Island Music Educator Journal, the Virginia Harmony Newsletter, and the ChorTeach online journal. His expertise has also been highlighted in School Band & Orchestra Magazine (SBO). As a featured blogger for ACDA’s online platform, ChoralNet, Odell continues contributing valuable insights to the choral music community.
Odell is a committed member of the American Choral Directors Association, the National Association for Music Education, and the National Association of Negro Musicians, Inc. He also contributes his expertise as a member of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Education Committee. Odell holds a B.A. in Music & Psychology from North Central College in Naperville, Illinois, an M.M.Ed. from the University of Rhode Island, and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with a Principal Certification Endorsement from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.
Session Abstract
Session Abstract
Intended for: Senior High School, College & University, TTBB Choirs, Treble Choir
Intended for: Senior High School, College & University, TTBB Choirs, Treble Choir
This session addresses a question I continue to hear in professional spaces. How do we build music literacy in beginning choral students while still preparing them for performance? I approach this from real classroom experience, where students often enter with ability but without a strong foundation in solfège, score reading, or sight reading. The session focuses on practical ways to close that gap without lowering expectations or sacrificing performance quality.
Participants will explore clear strategies for integrating literacy into daily rehearsal, including structured lesson planning, consistent sight reading, and aural skill development. I also address how to balance multiple entry points, meeting students who learn by ear while guiding them toward reading and understanding music. The goal is to make literacy part of the process, not something separate from it.
This work is rooted in access and equity. Music literacy should not be a barrier to participation. The session provides tools to support diverse learners and create a classroom where all students can engage, grow, and contribute at a high level. Attendees will leave with a clear framework for building musicianship, strengthening ensemble performance, and moving students forward with intention.
Page updated
Report abuse