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BFA in Music, Ithaca College, NY
Music Therapy Certification, SUNY New Paltz, NY
MS in Education (emphasis in curriculum/instruction), Western CT State University, Danbury, CT
6th year diploma in Educational Leadership, University of CT, Stamford, CT
092 certification in Educational Administration
2018 - present: Ludwig Music Institute, founder/director (Ludwig Music Curriculum- music note reading method developed for students with visual processing learning disabilities)
2014-2017: National Association for Music Education - Northeast Division Representative on Council for Orchestral Education
2014-2016: CT Arts Leadership Team
2010-2014: American Chamber Orchestra - Chairperson of the Education Committee
2008-2010: CT Music Educators Association - Chairperson of the Curriculum Committee
I am a motivated music instructor, who is passionate about addressing the unique learning styles and needs of each of my students. Aside from the educational credentials listed above, I have performed and toured with orchestras in Alaska, Hawaii, Japan, Hong Kong, Okinawa, The Philliipines, Italy, Austria and The Czech Republic. I am a new grandma and have already bought my 4 month old grandson his first violin and first piano! My goal is to bring the best quality music education to all learners!
When I first graduated from college, I began teaching private violin and piano lessons. At the same time, I was trained in the Kindermusik creative arts program, and soon thereafter founded Kindermusik of Western Connecticut. While teaching music, art and dance to pre-schoolers, I became more aware of the unique learning differences between children. This inspired me to explore the field of music therapy. While becoming a Registered Music Therapist, I was also teaching orchestra in the CT public school system. This is when I began to recognize that all learners in our public school system were not receiving an adequate and appropriate music education. As a result, I created a music note reading method specifically designed to support students diagnosed with visual processing deficits. These students are now confident members of their school instrumental music ensembles, meeting new friends and improving academically!
Each student's age, developmental level and previous experience is carefully assessed prior to determining the method that a student will begin their learning with. As each student progresses, the method may be altered depending upon his/her individual learning needs. I believe that it is important to include visual and/or aural theory in each lesson to support each student's understanding of what they are being asked to play. Each method selected will provide some challenge, while at the same time provide the learner with opportunities to experience success.
When students take one lesson each week, I believe it is important to develop continuity between those weekly lessons. Each student is asked to keep a basic "spiral" notebook with the weekly music being working on. During each lesson, I record the important things discussed, as well as the weekly assignment. This routine supports parent participation during at home practice sessions, as well as provides a reminder for students of key ideas learned during the previous lesson. Parents and students also know that they may contact me between lessons if a question arises during practicing. This practice encourages accountability and continuity, while supporting progress, hence, self-esteem.
Julie brings a warm, and enthusiastic attitude to every lesson encouraging you every time to do your best! Time passes by quickly as she makes the lessons fun, while sharing all the knowledge she has to give. I can’t wait to learn all she has to offer.
Excellent. Julie is professional, passionate about music, and takes her time to give you advice to help you with the skill of playing the piano. She is also a wealth of information. I enjoy my lessons with Julie,
Mrs. Julie has incredible patience with my daughter. She is gentle in her words and makes sure my child fully understands before they move on to something else. Mrs. Julie's communication is clear and is always on time. I highly recommend Mrs. Julie.
It’s been going well.