New January Store Update - Explore Modern Voices in Music!
Happy New Year from Practice Space!
To start 2026 with a fresh perspective, this month’s Practice Space store features avatars of five contemporary composers who are redefining what classical music can sound like today. From film scores to vocal innovation, these composers represent the creative spirit and bold experimentation of modern music - perfect for inspiring students as they set new goals for the year ahead.
Each avatar in the Practice Space store can be unlocked using Practice Gems, which students earn by meeting their daily practice targets. These avatars do more than just reward consistency, they connect students with real composers who are shaping the future of music.
As always, we’ve included a PDF packet packed with quick facts, short bios, and engaging activities for each composer. You’ll also find YouTube links to some of their most influential pieces, helping students explore the sound and style of each musical voice. This is a great way to deepen musical appreciation while keeping practice fun and meaningful!
Check out the January avatars and start the year with creativity, discovery, and a fresh musical spark—only at Practice Space.
John Williams - I’m the composer behind Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Jurassic Park. Big movies, big music!
Facts in app:
I composed the music for Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Indiana Jones.
Hedwig’s Theme is one of my most recognizable melodies.
I’ve won multiple Academy Awards and Grammy Awards.
I helped bring symphonic music into mainstream popular culture.
Watch the Vienna Philharmonic and Anne-Sophie Mutter perform Hedwig’s Theme.
John Williams & Vienna Philharmonic feat. Anne-Sophie Mutter – “Hedwig’s Theme” From “Harry Potter” - YouTube
Eric Whitacre - I write dreamy choral music with rich harmonies—and I started the first Virtual Choir!
Facts in app:
Lux Aurumque is one of my most performed choral works.
I created the Virtual Choir to unite singers from around the world.
My music often uses slow tempos and shimmering harmonies.
I love working directly with students and educators.
Check out the The Concordia Choir perform Lux Aurumque.
Lux Aurumque by Eric Whitacre ** REMASTERED HD Version
Jennifer Higdon - I found music later in life—and now my pieces are played all over the world!
Facts in app:
I won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2010.
Blue Cathedral is one of my most widely performed orchestral pieces.
I didn’t start formal music training until I was a teenager.
I write music that’s accessible and meaningful for musicians and audiences alike.
Watch the Portland Youth Philharmonic perform Blue Cathedral.
Jennifer Higdon: blue cathedral
Osvaldo Golijov - My music blends classical with Latin, Jewish, and folk traditions - always full of rhythm and soul.
Facts in app:
My piece La Pasión según San Marcos blends choir, orchestra, and Latin percussion.
I often include dance and movement in my music.
I draw inspiration from many cultures and musical traditions.
My works are performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world.
Watch this Deutsche Grammophon performance of La Pasión según San Marcos.
Osvaldo Golijov – La Pasión según San Marcos
Caroline Shaw - I mix classical, pop, and experimental sounds- and I love using voices in creative ways!
Facts in app:
I’m the youngest composer ever to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music.
My Partita for 8 Voices explores rhythm, speech, and movement with only voices.
I perform with vocal groups like Roomful of Teeth.
I love blending classical music with pop and experimental sounds.
Watch Roomful of Teeth perform Partita for 8 Voices.
Roomful of Teeth perform Caroline Shaw's 'Partita for 8 Voices' | Music on Main
Background Update
Some other fun additions
These all cheer the student on but also talk about tempo and other musical terms!
