Kathy McMinn
Teaching Artist Statement
Singing in a chorus is a very unique musical experience. It nurtures a singer’s musicianship in a situation that inspires responsibility, team work, confidence and joy. As a choral director, I am committed to fostering a sense of community in my choruses, while maintaining high expectations. With this combination, my students experience a sense of pure accomplishment with each concert. I am most content when I am in front of a children’s chorus.
Teaching Bio
Plymouth native Kathy McMinn is an elementary music educator with over 29 years of experience. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Education from the Hartt School of Music of the University of Hartford, and her Master of Arts in Education from the University of New England. She currently teaches general music at Federal Furnace Elementary School in Plymouth. As Music Education Coordinator for the Plymouth Philharmonic, she is responsible for developing the Music Immersion Program, the Federal Furnace Treble Choir and the Plymouth Children’s Chorus, three collaborative programs between the Plymouth Public Schools and the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra. This is her second year with the South Shore Conservatory where she is thrilled have the opportunity to help develop the children’s choral program. During the summer, Ms. McMinn travels to South Africa to work for the Music For Life Institute, the parent organization for the Africa Children’s Choir. While there, she teaches in village schools, runs training workshops for music teachers and works with the African Children’s Choir.
Ms. McMinn recently received the 2011 Yale Distinguished Music Educator Award. Past awards include PCEA Honor Award and the 2006 ARTY Award