Teacher Feature: Audrey Purdie

• Audrey Purdie
• Posted 8/13/21
• 0 comments

Get to know our authors. In our  ”Teacher Feature,” you will not only learn about our contributors’ professional endeavors but also get to know them as  humans  too.  Just like our readers – our authors are actively teaching in schools across the United States. 

Audrey Purdie has 8 years teaching Pre-K-6th grade general music and is currently the general music specialist at Robert Lee Frost Elementary School in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mrs. Purdie received her B.S. in Vocal and General Music Education from Ball State University in Muncie, IN, and completed Orff Level 1 at Anderson University in Anderson, IN. She has also taught elementary general Music at Grassy Creek Elementary School and Louis B. Russell Elementary School. Mrs. Purdie has a passion for teaching in urban settings and incorporating movement into her instruction. She lives in Indianapolis, Indiana with her husband and three children.   

Some interesting facts we learned about Audrey…

How did you end up becoming a music teacher? 

I loved performing but had pretty bad stage fright. I’ve always loved young kids and it was a great fit! 

Did a teacher influence your decision to enter education? 

My elementary music teacher got me involved in Indianapolis Children’s Choir which built my love of singing. My high school choir directors were also a huge inspiration. 

We’ve read your blog, and really enjoyed it! What inspired you to share your experiences with other teachers? 

I get a lot of joy from teaching and sharing ideas but never felt the confidence to share before. My students really enjoyed this activity and I know a lot of other music teachers love folk dancing so I wasn’t alone in looking for a creative solution to COVID restrictions. 

What has been the biggest surprise/revelation about being a music teacher? 

It really is what you make it. My intentions and attitudes are reflected in the kids. 

How do you deal with stress? 

I crochet, pray, and exercise! 

Fun Facts About You? 

What is your favorite food? 

I LOVE anything sweet but especially a good brownie.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about them. 

I don’t have pets but my husband and I adopted our children in April 2021. It’s been amazing and humbling. 

What is your favorite style of Music to listen to and why? 

I like hip hop. It keeps me pumped during workouts and makes me a little nostalgic for high school. 

What is your favorite school appropriate beverage? 

Water! Gotta keep those vocal folds healthy — but also coffee. 

What is your favorite book? 

Too many amazing books to choose from. I’m partial to historical fiction. 

If you could be a superhero, who would you be and why?

Can I be a mermaid instead?

We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know Audrey! Check out her Music ConstructED articles below.