Title
Professor of Music and Music Education
How many years have you worked at Saint Mary’s?
Since fall of 1990, 32 years
How do you hope you’re remembered for/what will you most be remembered for?
For the privilege of bringing not only active music making to our students through instrumental ensembles (and choir this past year), but also providing an outlet in their lives that nourishes the soul. Music helps us make connections to others in a way nothing else can, and helps us understand the world and express our innermost feelings. Music is not just beauty, not only a wonderful activity; it’s also therapeutic and life-affirming, something very much needed in our world.
What do you enjoy/have you enjoyed most about teaching?
Making deep connections with students — being a part of their lives in a meaningful way, even if it was only for a short time.
What are you most proud of from your career?
The Kaplan Commission Project — providing students the opportunity to meet contemporary composers and perform music that was written specifically for them.
What are your retirement plans?
So many possibilities! I look forward to having time to practice my flute and piccolo, especially to build my jazz skills, but I’ll remain active in the Winona Symphony Orchestra, Municipal Band and Flutistry. In the past I taught many younger students and plan to re-establish my private flute studio over time. I also hope to assist at Bluffview Montessori School and give back to the music education profession as an occasional clinician, substitute/guest teacher, or adjudicator during contest season. Of course I’ll spend more time with our grandson, Felix, and family, and will make time for other hobbies that have been neglected lately, such as gardening, cycling and exercising, reading, traveling, quilting and sewing, etc. as time and the seasons of the year evolve.