Community Partnerships
Music Education for the Community
Inspire, energize, and generate lifelong learners with a Wisconsin Conservatory of Music faculty artist at your school, early childhood center, senior center, or organization. WCM Community Partnership programs provide curriculum-based music instruction throughout southeast Wisconsin- tailored to each partner’s specific needs and goals.
In all my years as a principal, I’ve never seen students more enthusiastic about music class than with our Conservatory teachers. It’s all hands-on from the very first class.
Exceptional Music Education
for Your School or Organization
Grades: K4- 8th grade
General Music – Music Counts Curriculum
Our general music program, Music Counts, provides creative, engaging, curriculum-based classroom music education that meets state and national standards. Led by our faculty artists, Music Counts is a comprehensive music program designed to build fundamental musical skills and aims to give every child a lifelong love of music.
Music Counts is available to public, private, charter, and choice schools as a fully integrated school music program or as a supplement to existing programs.
Grades: 3rd-12th grade
Rhythm Residencies
Rhythm residencies focus on general music concepts and incorporate body percussion and instrumental exploration through bucket drumming. Led by our faculty artists, World Music residencies focus on the folkloric music of the African diaspora in the Caribbean. Students will discover African, Cuban, Haitian, and various cultural traditions through these programs.
Ages: 0-4 years
Early Childhood Music
Our early childhood program, SmartStart, is an engaging and playful introduction to musical concepts for our youngest students. We present programs in early childhood centers, preschools, libraries, and other organizations.
Guided by our team of faculty artists, students will explore and learn musical concepts through singing, call and response, movement, and hands on music making in an encouraging and joyful environment.
Grades: K4- 12th grade
Instrumental & Vocal Instruction
World-class faculty artists are available for private and group instruction in your school or community. Lesson schedules are planned in collaboration with your organization and instructors are chosen based on the needs and abilities of your students.
Programs include:
Piano | Voice | Percussion | Guitar | Strings | Brass Woodwinds | Jazz | Rock | Suzuki | Songwriting | Theory
Grades: K4- 4th grade
Suzuki Strings
Students learn violin, viola, and cello from our faculty artists who are trained and certified in the Suzuki Method. The method treats music education in the same way that people learn to speak their native language; through listening, imitation, and repetition in a positive, nurturing learning environment with active parental participation.
All students will develop a solid technical foundation, tone, and musicianship skills with our highly trained Suzuki teachers.
Grades: 5th-12th grade
Ensemble Programs
Help your students build team and social skills by collaborating with classmates and making new friends through music. Faculty artists from the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music direct ensemble students in choir, band, orchestra, jazz combos, rock bands, and chamber music. Programs include classroom instruction, rehearsal, and public performance opportunities.
Over 40 Community Partners in the 2022-2023 academic year:
Meet our Community Partnership Faculty Artists:
View Bio
Benjamin Haimann
Chair – Woodwinds, Brass & Percussion
Percussion, Community Partnerships, BandEliana Alcocer
Education
- B.M. – University of Wisconsin-Parkside
- M.M. – University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Background
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I like that I can work in an individualized setting such as private lessons or I can work in the community and share music with larger groups. I also like that I get to work alongside such amazing artists who support me and that I can continuously learn from.
What year did you start working at WCM?
2020
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
My percussion professor at UW-Parkside was someone who constantly supported me and pushed me to be my best. He also encouraged me to create my own path as an artist. He inspires me as an educator and performer and my goal is to be that kind of mentor to my students.
Jena Bliss
Education
- B.M. – Lawrence University
Background
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I chose to work at WCM because it offered me the opportunity to work collaboratively with amazing students while still actively pursuing my passion for my own music making experiences.
What year did you start working at WCM?
2023
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
Performing in Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro in college really challenged my abilities as a performer.
Laura Blumer
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Music – Maranatha Baptist University
- Level 1 Certification – Early Childhood Music and Movement Association
- Nationally Certified Teacher of Music – Music Teachers National Association
Background
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I loved the opportunity to teach private lessons, early childhood, and in local schools.
What year did you start working at WCM?
2023
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
I didn’t want to be a teacher until I met Dr. Rick Townsend who taught me during my freshman and sophomore years of college. He inspired me to start teaching after he demonstrated the impact we can have on our students’ lives and the lives of their families.
Jennifer Rodriguez Burke
Education
- Bachelor of Science, Music Education | Ball State University
- Master of Arts (in progress), Flute Performance | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Background
- Spent the past 5+ years teaching woodwind sectionals, flute sectionals, and private flute lessons at a variety of schools in the greater Indianapolis area.
- Worked as the Community Programs Assistant for Classical Music Indy 2018-2019 and as Assistant Education Coordinator for the Muncie Symphony Orchestra in Spring 2018.
- Worked as an Education Intern for the Chicago based not-for-profit, Fifth House Ensemble, in 2017.
- Acted as inaugural secretary for the Flute Guild at Ball State University in 2017.
- Performed Density 21.5 in Summer 2017 at the Milwaukee Art Museum through the Fresh Inc. Festival.
- Sings with her band EKRUTEAK.
- Spends her summers working as Program Coordinator for Music for the Sake of Music, a music not-for-profit providing free lessons and music ensembles in Green Bay, WI.
Alec Burke
Education
- B.S. PreK – 12 Instrumental / General Music Education | Ball State University
- M.M. Trumpet Performance, Secondary Concentration in Chamber Music | UW-Milwaukee
Background
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I chose to work at WCM to connect with the amazing and talented faculty, help enrich the experiences of music students through diverse program offerings, and get involved in the greater Milwaukee community.
What year did you start working at WCM?
2019
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
When I was in 6th grade, the Dallas Brass came to do a week long residency and side-by-side concert with our band program. Seeing these spectacular performers live and getting to interact with them on a personal level influenced my desire to pursue music as a career. I wanted to do what they did – bring accessible, high level musical performances to people of all backgrounds. Through my work with other non-profit organizations, performing and commissioning music by under-represented and living composers, and collaborating with artists of diverse backgrounds, I hope to continue giving back to my community through music.
Website
Jason Busniewski
Education
- University of California, Santa Barbara (PhD candidate, MA)
- University of Oklahoma (BMA)
Background
What year did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I love teaching music!
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
My undergraduate viola and ethnomusicology professors helped me chart my own academic and musical path, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.
Elise Cismesia
Education
Bachelor of Music, Vocal Performance | Eastman School of Music in Rochester New York
Background
- An Illinois native, dynamic soprano and music educator Elise Cismesia has extensive knowledge and dexterity in opera, art song, and musical theater.
- She is a versatile classically trained soprano with comprehensive performing experience throughout a vast milieu of works and genres from early to new music.
- During her time at Eastman, she sang in the Eastman Treble Choir, Eastman Repertory Singers, and the Eastman Chorale under the baton’s of Dr. William Wiehart and Dr. Phillip Silvey, and she has studied in the studio of renowned Mezzo- soprano and pedagogue Kathryn Cowdrick.
- In the Rochester community, Elise was the Choral Section Leader and Cantor at Church of the Ascension for three years.
- Some highlights from Elise’s time performing with the Eastman Opera Theater include the roles of “Ms. Higgins/Chorus” in Mozart’s Der Schauspieldirektor and “Featured Ensemble/Chorus” in Sondheim’s Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
- Notably, Elise performed in a filmed green-screened virtual production of Dominick Argento’s surrealist contemporary opera Postcard from Morocco singing the role of “Person with Old Luggage/Puppet #1/ Operetta Singer”.
- In addition to her passion for singing, Elise is a committed educator having instructed voice and piano lessons at the Allegro Dance and Music Academy in Lemont Illinois.
- She has a deep and strong enthusiasm to provide equitable, inclusive and accessible music education to all.
- In addition to being on faculty at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, Elise is a chorister in the Milwaukee Symphony Chorus.
Marcya Daneille
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Voice Performance | Roosevelt University (Chicago Musical College)
- Graduate Level Vocal Training | University of Iowa
Background
- Joined the Vocal Arts faculty at the Conservatory in 2017.
- Is a cross-genre singer that is classically trained, jazz influenced, and soul inspired.
- Has taught private voice to students of all levels for thirty years, which includes more than a decade in New York.
- Began her career singing career as a soprano and has sung with Lincoln Opera Chicago, the Lyric Theater of Illinois and the Bel Canto Chorus of Milwaukee.
- Has gradually transitioned from singing classical music exclusively to performing an eclectic repertoire of music.
- Has performed alongside a diverse group of critically acclaimed artists such as Simon Estes, Wycliffe Gordon, BeBe Winans, Vanessa Williams, Laurel Masse and Gerald Levert.
Megan Devine
Education
- B.M Music Performance – Millikin University
- M.A. Percussion Performance – Truman State University
Background
Why did you choose WCM?
I’ve always wanted to teach music, and I love giving back to the community. The Conservatory seemed like the perfect place to do both!
When did you start at WCM?
2023
Describe a musical experience that has had a positive impact on you?
My private lesson teacher through middle and high school is one of the best people I’ve ever met. He’s an amazing teacher, and makes sure to keep in touch with us even years after we left.
Deonte Ellis
Background
Born in Milwaukee, Wi, Deonte is a young up-and-coming percussionist setting an example for his peers and the next generation, by trailblazing the Milwaukee music scene.
Deonte currently teaches and is a part of a few ensembles and bands, all while maintaining his own business ventures.
Deonte has been most recently involved with the Milwaukee Bucks Drumline, coaches his high school drumline at Riverside, and is the drummer for bands “Nwa Na Agbe,” and “The Urbanites,” to name a few.
Adam Fisher
Education
- Bachelor of Science, Music Education | University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
- Master of Music, Trumpet Performance | University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
Background
- Joined the Conservatory faculty in 2017.
- Plays with groups such as the Wisconsin and Milwaukee Philharmonics and the Lake County Symphony Orchestra.
- Premiered new music with Present Music and DIY Chamber Ensemble.
- Plays in the pit orchestras of dozens of musicals around Wisconsin.
- Taught master classes throughout the Midwest.
Danielle Gedemer
Education
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music, Vocal Performance | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Background
- Joined the Conservatory faculty in December 2021.
- Has taught singing in various forms since 2013.
- Composes and co-directs an annual musical for the West Bend Parks and Recreation Department.
- Has attended two National Association of Teacher of Singing conferences and completed the Estill Singing workshops.
- Enjoys singing at St. Paul’s Episcopal and throughout the Milwaukee community.
- Wrote a libretto for the Florentine Opera for Kids program.
Luke Hahn
Education
- B.A. in Music- Concordia
- University Wisconsin
Background
What year did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
It’s great reputation and teacher support system.
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
Performing in “Singin’ in the Rain” reignited my love for musical theatre. “What a glorious feelin’” it is to sing and dance with your friends!
Benjamin Haimann
Chair – Woodwinds, Brass & Percussion
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree, Music Education, Music Performance | Ohio State University
- Master’s Degree, Music Performance | University of South Carolina
Background
- Began his musical studies at age nine, playing drum set and taking private percussion lessons.
- Coached the percussion ensemble and spent time conducting the wind ensemble as a Teaching Assistant and Counselor for the Instrumental Music Program at The North Carolina Governor’s School East(summers of 2014-2015).
- Was the Front Ensemble Instructor with the Grove City High School Marching Band, including a trip to the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California (2016-2017).
- Received the prestigious Presser Foundation Scholarship while studying at Ohio State.
- Worked as a Graduate Assistant for the University of South Carolina percussion studio and was the percussionist for the Spark Collective, a graduate quintet focusing on community engagement through music.
- Won the concerto competition at the University of South Carolina in 2018 and performed Kevin Puts’ Marimba Concerto No. 1 with the University of South Carolina Symphony Orchestra in 2019.
- Enjoys practicing marimba, making coffee, and hanging out with his dog, Lila.
Alec Henry
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance – Butler University
- Master’s degree in Performance – University of Oklahoma (where he expanded upon his ever-growing musical repertoire with Doctor Anthony Stoops)
- Alec’s first private teacher was Laura Snyder, a prominent bassist in the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, with whom he studied in high school in Brookfield, Wisconsin
- Studied under Professor David Murray, internationally renowned solo bassist and educator
Background
- Joined WCM in 2023
- Alec Henry is a multifaceted bassist and teacher
- Born and raised in West Allis, Wisconsin, he is currently an instructor for the Connections program at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- He also maintains a private studio for various string students throughout Southeastern Wisconsin
- Before settling down again in Milwaukee, Alec was the String Bass Graduate Assistant at the University of Oklahoma
- He played in various local orchestras throughout the Midwest, serving as principal bass in both the Hendricks Symphony Orchestra and Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis
- During his youth, Alec spent eight years with the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra
- His Indiana summers were spent teaching for the various youth music camps led by the Butler Community Arts School on campus
- Specifically, Alec specializes in the teaching and performance of 21st Century solo bass literature, euro-classical music, and modern jazz compositions on both the upright and electric bass.
- In addition to his teaching at the Wisconsin Conservatory, Alec likes to stay involved with the string bass community by attending the biannual International Society of Bassists Conventions as well as volunteering with the Richard Davis Foundation for Young Bassists in Madison, Wisconsin
Kaisa Herrmann
Freya Irani
Education
- Bachelor of Music, Viola Performance- University of the Arts Berlin
- Violin Books 1-5: Suzuki Association of the Americas
- (Books 4 and 5 are in progress)
Background
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I enjoy working collaboratively with students and families. I believe music is a tool that brings joy to young people’s lives, allowing them to express themselves, make close friends, and form lasting connections. Learning music at a young age provides children with experiences they will never forget. It also teaches vital life skills such as self-discipline, collaboration, and dedication.
What year did you start working at WCM?
2022
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
Studying viola with Prof. Hartmut Rohde at the University of the Arts Berlin, which instilled a passion for teaching in me.
Mikhail Johnson
Education
- D.M.A.- Texas Tech University (Piano)
- M.M.- Bowling Green State University (Piano)
- M.M.- Bowling Green State University (Composition)
- Piano Grade 8 Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM)
Background
Why did you choose WCM?
I chose to work at WCM because of the mandate and commitment to serving disenfranchised schools with excellent music teaching and resources. Thus, fostering a more holistic and well-rounded arts appreciative community by making music accessible to all.
What year did you start working at WCM?
2023.
Describe a musical experience that had a positive impact on you:
I have had many music experiences in my lifetime. However, one I will forever cherish was when I was 18 and I thought it was too late to make music a career and I basically gave up music. A teacher by the name of Kimberly Cann showed me through her teaching that my dream of having music a career could be a reality. I haven’t looked back since and it also pushed me to share that knowledge and inspiration with others.
Kari Johnson
Education
- B.M. Piano Performance – St. Olaf College
- M.M. Piano Performance/Pedagogy – UW Madison
- Smart Start Teacher Certification – Royal Conservatory of Music
Background
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I chose to work at WCM because of the feeling of community–being surrounded by such high-caliber faculty is inspiring! I also love how WCM is able to provide music instruction to children in schools who would otherwise go without, and I have experienced first hand what a difference that can make.
What year did you start working at WCM?
2010-2014 and 2019-Present time.
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
The summer after graduate school, I had the opportunity to attend a summer program on the music of Debussy in Castres, France. Studying Debussy in a beautiful chateau in the French countryside was definitely a highlight of my musical studies, and I think back to it every time I perform or teach French music.
Kyle Khembunjong
Education
- Associate of Arts – College of Southern Nevada
- Bachelor’s of Music in Guitar Performance – University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Certificate of Music Technology – University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Master’s of Music in Guitar Performance – University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
Background
What year did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I chose to work at WCM because I value being part of a community of inspiring individuals, resources, and opportunities through exceptional music education.
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
I would not be where I am today without my middle school guitar teacher Mr. Flores, who devoted countless hours into my musical development, provided many performance opportunities, and was a vital mentor in my youth.
Laura Mintz
Education
- Bachelor of Music | Indiana University
- Master of Music | University of Michigan
Background
- Joined the Conservatory in 2018.
- Received Suzuki Teacher Training with Mimi Zweig and Judy Offman.
- Has taught students of all ages and levels for 25 years.
- Created and directed Suzuki and traditional instrumental programs in schools in New York, Texas, Wisconsin, and London.
- Has enjoyed a varied career as an orchestral violinist and freelance chamber musician, performing in the US and Europe with the New World Symphony, New Haven Symphony, Bayou City Chamber Orchestra, National Repertory Orchestra, and the Spoleto Festival Orchestra.
- Chosen by Isaac Stern and Sir Georg Solti to perform and record as a member of the Solti Orchestra Project at Carnegie Hall.
- Received first prize in the Fischoff International Chamber Music Competition.
Chanse Mortenson
Education
- B.S. – University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
- General and Vocal Music Education
Background
What year did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
WCM provided a space for me to continue teaching while I work on my Masters in Vocal Performance. I admire their commitment to making music education more accessible to all in the community.
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
My college choir director, Dr. Christopher Hathaway has been the most positive musical influence I’ve had. I always appreciated his high expectations and made my time at the University of Wisconsin- La Crosse beneficial.
Riley Newendorp
Education
- B.A.- Graceland University (Psychology, minors in sociology and musical theatre)
- Drumline- Graceland University (Snare and Tenor)
- Jazz vocalist- Graceland University
- Jazz vocalist- Knoxville High School
- Percussionist- Knoxville High School
Background
What year did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
Music has been my passion for as long as I can remember so I want to be able to create a meaningful experience with music for others. I got my bachelors in psychology and truly believe that music holds so many valuable resources in how our brains work. I hope to teach empathy and emotional stability through music.
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
In high school, my band teacher asked me to sing for their jazz band and I agreed. I was very nervous for this new experience but he supported me and pushed me to become a confident musician. He taught me to always say yes to new experiences and to continue learning. I believe his impact on me has helped me become the confident, teachable and passionate musician I am today.
Elizabeth Notestine
Education
- B.M St. Francis Xavier University
- Phil Mattson’s School for Music Vocation
Background
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I love our mission to make high quality music instruction accessible to everyone!
What year did you start working at WCM?
2023
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
My mentor, the late Jerry Granelli, challenged me to create music from a place of true authenticity. I’m forever grateful for his guidance while he believed in me (even when I didn’t believe in myself!). He helped me find a fascination with improvised music, as well as discovering humor in creativity. Turns out that having curiosity spark hard work and dedication is WAY better than fear!
Emmy Rozanski
Education
- Doctor of Musical Arts, Trombone Performance | Arizona State University
Background
- Emmy Rozanski is an enthusiastic music educator and active freelance trombonist in the Milwaukee and Chicago areas.
- Adjunct music faculty at Alverno College, teaching artist for Sistema Ravinia, and low brass instructor at Highland Park High School.
- Traveled to El Salvador in the summers of 2019 and 2018 as a teaching artist with MusAid, leading classes in technique and ensemble skills, as well as teaching private lessons.
- Currently the principal trombonist for the Skokie Valley Symphony Orchestra (Skokie, IL) and has recently performed with the International Women’s Music Festival Orchestra (Madison) Summit Brass (Denver), the Powder River Symphony (Wyoming), and the Billings Symphony (Montana).
- Toured Switzerland performing with the Arizona Contemporary Music Ensemble.
- She is researching motivation and growth mindset as they pertain to musicians and educators and presented on these topics at the 2019 International Trombone Festival and International Women’s Brass Conference.
- As part of her doctoral project she wrote and illustrated a children’s book about the trombone, Mr. Fitch Joins the Band.
Jeff Schneider
Education
- Studied with Bob Koska, Myron Strong and Don Terkel.
- Performed with The Menomonee Falls Symphony, Surf Rock band The Revomatics, and many others.
- Taught privately for over 30 years, and have taught at School of Rock, White House of Music, and Brass Bell..
Background
What year did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
It is a fantastic opportunity to be able to do what I love- Teach!
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
I joined The Milwaukee Catholic Symphony when I was 20. At the time I knew nothing about Classical Music. We performed Romeo and Juliet by Tchaikovsky. I was hooked!
Joshua Sevigny
Education
- Bachelor’s in Music Performance | Crane School of Music
- Master’s in Music Performance | University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
Background
- Holds principal positions with the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra and the Lake County Symphony Orchestra.
- Has performed with the Southwestern Suburban Symphony Orchestra, Present Music Milwaukee, Northern Symphonic Winds, Racine Symphony, Wisconsin Philharmonic, Antioch Brass Quintet, and The Big Top Circus Band, and is on numerous sub lists in both Wisconsin and Illinois.
- Performs with a number of local jazz and rock groups in the Milwaukee area.
- Runs a large, successful low brass studio.
- Has placed in and won numerous national and international competitions.
- Does recitals and masterclasses at universities and solos with orchestras in the area, like the Lake County Symphony Orchestra this season.
Dana Sherman
Education
- B.A.- Majored in Music Performance and Mathematics at University of Wisconsin, Madison
- M.M.- Northwestern University
Background
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I love sharing my joy for music with students of all ages.
What year did you start working at WCM?
2018
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
When I was in middle school, I attended my first camp, Birch Creek, in Door County. At the camp they said, “Many students decide that they want to pursue a career in music when they come to this camp.” I had a great time at camp, but thought that a career in music probably wasn’t for me. I continued going back to that camp for 3 more summers and eventually decided I loved making music so much that I didn’t want to stop.
Felipe Rocha Luiz Vianna
Education
- Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance – Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE)
- Master of Music in Viola Performance – Louisiana State University (LSU)
Background
- Born in Vassouras/RJ – Brazil, Felipe Vianna started his music studies at PIM – Programa de Integração pela Música, a social project based on El-Sistema Music Education, having violin lessons with Daniel Andrade, and participating actively in Suzuki masterclasses with Suray Soren Doyle and Paulo Bosisio. Later, became violin, viola, and music theory teacher at the project from 2007 to 2009.
- After migrating to viola, pursued his studies at Federal University of Pernambuco, where played actively as principal and section viola at UFPE Symphony Orchestra and “Sonoro Ofício”, a historically informed chamber orchestra, from 2010 to 2016.
- Finalist at Paulo Bosisio National String Competition in Juiz de Fora/ MG – Brazil, adult division in 2013.
- Co-principal viola at Orquestra Sinfônica da Paraíba, in João Pessoa/PB – Brazil, during 2015 season.
- Received the Graduate School Tuition Award (GSTA) from Louisiana State University in 2017.
- Worked as violin and viola teacher at Kid’s Orchestra in Baton Rouge, academic year 2019-2020.
- Major viola professors (in chronological order): Dr. Savio Santoro (UFPE), Dr. Elias Goldstein (LSU) and Paul Cortese.
- Participated in festivals in Brazil, US, and Italy, under the tutelage of many great violists, such as Emmerson diBiaggi, Leonardo Piermartini, Carlos Aleixo, Marcelo Jaffé, Alexandre Razera, Gabriel Marin, Nobuko Imai, Bruno Giuranna, Carol Rodland, Michelle LaCourse, Phillip Ying, Paul Newbauer, Raimi Solomonov, Karen Dreyfous, Susan Dubois, Wenting Kang, Hella Frank, Daphne Gerling and Glêsse Collet.
Ying Wang
Education
- B.A. – University of Wisconsin – Madison
- M.M. – Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins University
- D.M.A. – University of Wisconsin – Madison
Background
What year did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
WCM is a great community to discover and share everyone’s love and talent for music.
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
I really enjoyed a chamber recital and opened my eyes in the collaborative performance world. As a pianist I have never played with anyone else before, and the chamber recital made me realize the opportunity is fabulous and I can get to work with so many great musicians.
Sami Weinkoetz
Education
- B.M in Music Education & Clarinet Performance | UW – Stevens Point
- M.M in Clarinet Performance | Youngstown State University
Background
When did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
The Conservatory’s mission perfectly aligned with my philosophy of breaking down barriers and making music education accessible for students of all ages and backgrounds. I was eager to work alongside amazing musicians to challenge my own growth as a performer and educator.
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
During my student teaching experience, I had the privilege of introducing a young student to the bass clarinet. When we opened the case for the first time, their eyes widened and they said “I’m so excited!” Watching my students find joy through music is the greatest gift I receive from teaching!
Cameron Wilkins
Education
- B.M.- Lawrence Conservatory
Background
What year did you start working at WCM?
2024
Why did you choose to work at WCM?
I love working with kids and am passionate about every kid having access to music. It should be a universal right
Describe a musical experience or teacher that had a positive impact on you.
My orchestra teacher really impacted how I looked at teaching music. I really struggled in orchestra and thought about not pursuing music education. He told me “whenever you overcome obstacles, you are more equipped to teach those who have similar obstacles. The best teachers are those who can show the kid who is just not getting a concept because they have been there personally”