STEVENSVILLE — ArtScene | The Podcast continues its mission of bringing listeners behind the scenes with educators who inspire through the arts. In the newest episode, host Michael Bell sits down with Bayrex Hernandez, elementary music teacher at Matapeake Elementary School, whose story blends resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to student success.
Hernandez, who grew up in Puerto Rico in a family where education and music were the heartbeat of daily life, now brings that same energy and vision to Queen Anne’s County. His journey from a background in chorus to leading a thriving choir and band program demonstrates his willingness to take bold leaps while keeping students at the center of the stage. From launching Matapeake’s first outdoor concert to building a program where second graders dream of joining choir and fifth graders can’t wait for band, Hernandez has redefined what music education looks like for his students.
“I’ve always told my students, ‘Don’t let the instrument control you—you control the instrument,’” Hernandez said. “That mindset helps them push through frustration, not just in music, but in life. At Matapeake, I’ve found a school full of musical diamonds, and my role is simply to help them shine.”
Bell, who created ArtScene to amplify the stories of educators making a difference, said Hernandez embodies the spirit of the podcast, and the thriving music programs in Queen Anne’s County, which notably earned the NAMM Foundation’s prestigious national recognition of 2025 Best Communities in Music Education for a second time.
“Bayrex brings both discipline and joy to his classroom, but what’s most powerful is how he empowers his students to believe in themselves,” Bell said. “He proves every day that music education isn’t just about notes and rhythms—it’s about creating space for kids to find their voice and build confidence that will last a lifetime.”
🎧 Tune in to hear the full episode of ArtScene | The Podcast featuring Bayrex Hernandez on Spotify or at https://anchor.fm/artscene or wherever you stream your favorite podcasts.