Rebecca Graham

Rebecca Graham, Music Education Coordinator

rgraham@newrootsschool.org, 607-882-9220

I feel very fortunate to be stepping into the position Music Education Coordinator position, both as a first-year teacher and a lover and advocate for music in the schools. I have been a musician for almost 15 years. It has carried me throughout middle and high school, as well as Ithaca College, where I graduated with a degree in Music Education. Some of my favorite memories are from my participation in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA), The International Trumpet Guild, All-State Conference Band, and the Music in the Parks contests at Six Flags Amusement Park. These, and many more, were opportunities that I hope to see our students involved with this year and beyond.

My focus for the year will be expanding the music program offered here at New Roots. This will involve making sure all of our underclassmen get a music/fine arts experience before moving on as upperclassmen, and teaming up with local musicians and organizations for a more hands-on experience. Last year when I was an Americorps VISTA at the school, I got the chance to direct a small brass ensemble made up of myself and four students. The experience of performing and directing reminded me of how enthusiastic young people are for the arts and how important is it to tap into those interests.

Though I am excited to help expand on our already amazing and dynamic program, I mostly look forward to playing music with our bright and talented kids!