Teacher Feature: Emily Church

• Emily Church
• Posted 2/1/21
• 0 comments

Get to know our authors!  In our “Teacher Feature,” you will not only learn about our authors’ 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. 

Hello! My name is Emily Church, and I teach K-5 General Music in a small district in Central Ohio. I have been teaching for 12 years and love every minute. I attended Capital University for my Bachelor’s of Music and Masters of Music in Music Education with a Kodaly Emphasis. Also, I studied Kodaly in Hungary for a summer in 2013 and got my Orff Level 1 Certification from The Cincinnati Conservatory of Music in 2017. I am always singing and dancing and looking for new ways to bring the music classroom to life through music and literature. Making prop routines is my jam, and I love to share what I come up with.

Some other interesting facts we learned about Emily… 

How did you end up becoming a music teacher?   

I have always loved singing, and as soon as I joined the choir in Middle School, my path was set.  I originally wanted to become a choir teacher, but once I took elementary methods in college, I knew K-5 was the place for me.  I just love all the purposeful play that happens in an elementary music room- the movement routines, singing games, connections to children’s books, and everything else! 

Did a teacher influence your decision to enter education?  

My middle school choir teacher/ 1st voice teacher, Mrs. Brickman, and our school accompanist, Miss Carol. Both were the most kind, loving, professional teachers I have had.  They both encouraged me yet gave me constructive criticism and tough love when needed. Unfortunately, Mrs. Brickman passed away after a battle with Breast Cancer in my freshman year of high school, but she had already given me many of the tools needed to pursue music as a profession.  

What inspired you to share your experiences with other teachers?   

I used to be in a big district where we met and shared ideas all the time.  Now I am in a more rural district where I am the only elementary music teacher.  I have been much more active in local Kodaly and Orff Chapters and seek out online opportunities as often as I can to ensure I stay connected with other elementary music educators.  Any way I can help out another teacher is a win in my book, as I am getting new ideas from so many others all the time.  

What is your favorite music teaching moment?  

I have had so many wonderful moments, but one of the best was getting to sing in a few concerts with one of my first students from Cincinnati, where I started my teaching career.  He was my student in 5th and 6th grade and then changed districts for middle and high school. When I moved back to Columbus 3 years ago, I joined the Capital University Choral Union. He happened to be attending Capital and was a member of the Chapel Choir.  At the first concert that year, he came up and “introduced himself,” and we had a great time catching up.  We sang two concerts together, and it was so cool to see one of my first students pursuing music in college and beyond.  

How do you deal with stress?   

I need a temporary escape from whatever the stressful situation is, so I love reading and playing with my kids. I also quilt, exercise, and take bubble baths.  

Fun Facts About Emily      

What is your favorite food?   

Macaroni and Cheese.  

Do you have any pets?    

No pets, but my kids would love a cat or dog.  

What is your favorite style of music to listen to?    

I listen to Pop, Classic Rock, and Musicals mostly.  

What is your favorite school appropriate beverage – are you a cola or coffee drinker?   

Coffee all the way.  

What is your favorite book?   

My favorite novel is ever-changing. Usually, it is the last one I read.  One of my favorite picture books is Rock What Ya Got by Samantha Berger.  It has the best message!  

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

Elastigirl from Incredibles. She is a working mom at the top of her field but still super devoted to her family. She gets to save the world with her husband and kids (driving a motorbike and flying a plane). 

We hope you enjoyed getting know  Emily as much as we have.  Visit Emily’s Kodály Inspired Music blog for Musical Activities for a Well-Trained Heart.