We have a lot of incredible people teaching for our programs, and while our students get to work with them every week, we know that our wider community might not know them!
We are kicking off the new year with a feature on Erin Little, our Elemental Strings Chamber Orchestra cello coach and Bergmann teacher! Erin’s vast experience in music education brings so much to our programs. Read more about her here!
EM: How long have you been teaching for Elemental Music?
EL: Two years.
EM: How did you get started in music?
EL: Starting in 7th grade, my public school offered band and orchestra. I began my musical journey on cello and was instantly hooked!
EM: Can you talk a little bit about your background in music education and what inspired you to become a music teacher?
EL: I've always had a passion for learning and education, in part because of incredible teachers in my life. In high school, I knew that I wanted to pursue music teaching as a professional career because of the opportunity to make a difference in my community. I have a Bachelor's degree in music education from Michigan State University and a Master's degree in music education from the University of Michigan. I have additional certification in Suzuki, Music Learning Theory, and Responsive Classroom teaching practices. I have a decade of classroom teaching experience in K-12 orchestra and general music.
EM: What is one of your favorite musical memories?
EL: Music has given me a lifetime of incredible experiences. My favorite musical memory is the thrill and excitement of live music performances. It creates a sense of community and connection that is so special. I can't wait to make music with people again, when it is safe to do so!
EM: I know that tango is one of your hobbies. Do you find that your musical practice informs your dance practice, and/or vice versa?
EL: Absolutely! To me, movement (dance) and music are inextricably linked. Argentine tango is a completely improvised dance; dancers improvise a sequence of footwork that is meant to reflect the music they are hearing. Having a clear understanding of tempo, style, ornamentation, phrasing, and different musical lines (harmony vs. melody) shapes the "musicality" of a dancer. As a musician, my dance background has helped me better appreciate musical qualities that make a piece enjoyable to dance to. In Argentine tango, sharp staccato bow strokes really highlight a rhythm, helping a dancer better articulate movement. Playing with a sense of steady beat helps dancers organize their movement and not crash into each other. Ultimately, movement becomes an extension of one's musicality, whether it's on an instrument or at the milonga (tango dance party).
EM: If you could give our students one piece of advice, musical or otherwise, what would it be?
EL: I love to keep my instrument out of the case at home. I'm more likely to pick it up and practice.
EM: Is there anything else you'd like to add, that you think might be interesting for our community?
EL: Elemental Music is an incredible organization that is committed to equitable and accessible music education for our community. I am so grateful to be part of an extraordinary team of music educators! Cheers to a happy and healthy New Year!