Teaching & Education

Leading a department and designing an award-winning orchestra program taught me how to balance strategy, people, and logistics—skills I now bring to workforce development and corporate learning initiatives. As department chair, I facilitated PLC meetings, managed scheduling, set instructional objectives, and oversaw both department and program finances. I also fully owned the planning and execution of over 100 performances, from programming music to coordinating facilities, instructing students, and managing event logistics. This experience honed my ability to manage complex programs, lead teams, and ensure every detail aligns with larger goals. 

I designed programs that motivated students to grow, take leadership, and achieve excellence. I founded the Tri-M Music Honor Society chapter to expand student leadership opportunities, strengthen collaboration across ensembles, and foster a culture of service through music-focused community projects. I also created and directed the Silken Strings Ensemble, leading students in performances at regional events—from Trunk or Treat and the Salvation Army Holiday Brunch to the Rotary Club Banquet and the District Teacher of the Year Ceremony—building confidence, visibility, and civic impact.

Through a Youth Symphony Partnership, I coordinated with the school district to establish a credit-bearing recognition pathway for advanced participants, ensuring they received formal acknowledgment for their work. I organized field trips and performance travel to cities including Louisville, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Chicago, and Nashville, giving students authentic opportunities to connect musical performance with broader cultural experiences.

To celebrate student achievement, I implemented a lettering program, full banquet, senior medallions and bios in the program, and special recognition at the final performance each year. These initiatives fostered engagement, motivation, and a sense of pride in student accomplishments.

Building connections beyond the classroom has always been central to my work. I partnered with organizations like the Community Music Alliance, creating meaningful service and performance experiences for students, including an annual collaborative concert with their community chorus and volunteer opportunities supporting CMA’s mission of accessible music education. I also collaborated with local media, including 90.5 FM and the News & Tribune, to highlight student achievements and program initiatives.

To expand students’ exposure to music and careers, I brought in guest performers, ensemble clinicians, and local college leaders, and hosted Louisville Orchestra “Abrams Kids” interns for two consecutive years to provide mentorship and real-world insight. These collaborations gave students authentic learning opportunities, strengthened community ties, and enhanced program impact, benefiting over 100 students annually.