Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Name In Citations
Lattes Url
Personal Information
Awards
Publications
background-images
Isabela Cristina Oliveira Paulo Araujo

Isabela Cristina Oliveira Paulo Araujo

Norman,OK

Summary

Versatile pianist and emerging cultural anthropologist with advanced training in piano performance and a strong focus on indigenous music and language preservation. Currently pursuing dual master’s degrees in Cultural Anthropology at the University of Oklahoma and Piano Performance at the University of Wyoming, studying under renowned mentors including Dr. Rivkin, Tchaikovsky Competition winner, and Prof. Theresa Bogard. Combines rigorous musical expertise with ethnographic research, archival analysis, and language revitalization projects, including work on Northern Arapaho, Paiter Suruí and Ikolen Gavião traditions. Recognized for excellence through multiple scholarships and awards, including the Music Talent Award, Cunningham Piano Scholarship, and Graduate Assistantship at UW, as well as an early academic Honorable Mention in the Brazilian Physics Olympiad. Experienced in solo and collaborative performance, pedagogy, and interdisciplinary scholarship that bridges music, culture, descolonialism and linguistic heritage.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Choir Accompanist

University of Wyoming
08.2023 - 09.2025

Provide accompaniment for vocalists, instrumentalists, and ensembles in rehearsals and performances. Assist faculty and students with musical preparation, including coaching and adapting repertoire. Demonstrate sight-reading, communication, and organizational skills in a variety of collaborative settings.

Piano Accompanist

University of Wyoming
08.2023 - 09.2025
  • Handled requests for specific musical selections.
  • Provided reliable support for vocalists in auditions by quickly adapting to a wide range of styles and repertoire requirements.
  • Partnered with choir directors to create dynamic choral performances through precise and expressive piano playing.
  • Fostered a supportive environment for performers by offering constructive feedback and encouragement, promoting confidence in their abilities.
  • Elevated worship services through sensitive, well-executed piano accompaniment for hymns and other liturgical music.
  • Improved rehearsal efficiency by skillfully sight-reading new material, allowing for more focused attention on interpretation and expression.
  • Collaborated with soloists to deliver exceptional recitals, showcasing their talents and technical abilities.
  • Assisted composers in presenting new works by mastering complex scores and delivering accurate, emotionally resonant interpretations.

Assistant Cook

University of Wyoming
05.2025 - 08.2025
  • Upheld strict cleanliness standards by regularly sanitizing all surfaces and equipment within the kitchen area.
  • Collaborated with team members to execute successful daily meal services for up to 1.000 guests.
  • Maintained proper food safety practices, ensuring a healthy and safe dining environment for guests.
  • Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining food preparation processes and maintaining a clean workspace.
  • Supported head chef in developing innovative recipes, resulting in higher customer satisfaction.
  • Developed strong knife skills through consistent practice, increasing precision in ingredient preparation.


Catering Staff Member

University of Wyoming
06.2024 - 08.2025
  • Provided excellent service under high-pressure situations, ensuring smooth event operations.
  • Provided friendly, courteous service to create memorable moments for guests.
  • Served appetizers, delivered entrees, and refilled beverages for banquet guests.
  • Demonstrated flexibility in handling diverse catering needs, from small gatherings to large corporate events.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing exceptional catering services at various events.
  • Supported successful events by setting up venue spaces according to client specifications.
  • Achieved safe food handling practices by following all necessary guidelines and procedures.
  • Collaborated with team members to create memorable experiences for clients and guests.

Graduate Assistant for Historical Perspective III

University of Wyoming
01.2025 - 05.2025

Assisted with lectures, graded assignments, and supported student learning on Western music history from the Romantic era to the present. Facilitated discussions, provided feedback, and ensured academic engagement.

Graduate Assistant for Intro to Global Music

University of Wyoming
01.2025 - 05.2025

Facilitated online, asynchronous coursework focusing on global music traditions and their cultural contexts. Assisted with grading, supported student engagement in discussions and projects, and provided feedback on assignments exploring global awareness and diversity in music.

Graduate Teaching Assistant

University of Wyoming
08.2023 - 05.2025
  • Checked assignments, proctored tests and provided grades according to university standards.
  • Developed strong rapport with students through open communication channels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
  • Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating visual aids and real-world examples into lectures.
  • Supported instructors in grading exams and papers, maintaining accurate records of student performance throughout the semester.
  • Served as a liaison between faculty members and students, addressing concerns and facilitating resolution of issues promptly.
  • Documented attendance and completed assignments to maintain full class and student records.
  • Mentored students through office hours and one-on-one communication.
  • Managed a classroom of diverse learners, implementing differentiated instruction strategies to meet individual student needs.
  • Worked with teachers in evaluating student progress, needs and gains.
  • Assisted in the development of course materials, ensuring content was relevant and engaging for students.
  • Participated in curriculum development meetings with faculty members, offering insights from a teaching assistant perspective to improve course design.
  • Organized review sessions before exams, aiding students in identifying key areas of focus for optimal test preparation.
  • Conducted office hours for supplemental tutoring sessions, helping students understand complex concepts more clearly.

Piano Class Instructor

University of Wyoming
01.2023 - 05.2025

Supporting instruction by assisting undergrad students in developing piano skills, managing class activities, and ensuring a smooth learning environment. Responsibilities may include providing one-on-one guidance, demonstrating techniques, and aiding in curriculum implementation.

Graduate Assistant for Theory Class IV

University of Wyoming
01.2024 - 12.2024
  • Assisting with advanced music theory instruction, supporting students in analyzing complex musical forms, enhancing their theoretical understanding, and mastering compositional techniques. Responsibilities may involve tutoring, grading, and facilitating classroom activities.

Piano Teacher

Natália Mendoza Estúdio De Piano & Experiência Musical
01.2018 - 12.2019
  • Boosted student confidence in their abilities through consistent positive reinforcement and encouragement.
  • Introduced students to appropriate hand positioning, finger transitions and pedal use.
  • Communicated with parents regarding upcoming events and student progress.
  • Provided extra help and support to offer additional support to struggling students and encourage success in art subjects.
  • Collaborated with community arts organizations to bring real-world experiences into classrooms and provide students with opportunities for learning and growth.
  • Developed lesson plans, selected course materials and prepared assignments.
  • Developed personalized curriculum for each student to cater to their unique learning styles and needs.
  • Enhanced student performance by incorporating innovative teaching methods and individualized lesson plans.

Piano Teacher

MVSIKA! Centro De Estudos
01.2018 - 12.2019
  • Increased student retention rates by developing strong relationships with students and their families.
  • Evaluated and graded student performance, homework assignments, projects and tests.
  • Continuously researched current trends pedagogy ensuring instruction remained relevant engaging.
  • Coordinated recitals and musical events to showcase student achievements.
  • Ensured smooth communication with parents about their child''s progress through regular meetings discussing achievements areas needing improvement.
  • Maintained detailed records of student attendance, progress reports, repertoire lists, and performance evaluations.
  • Assisted in organizing fundraising efforts within the music department providing resources equipment upgrades necessary enrichment opportunities for all participants.
  • Developed personalized curriculum for each student to cater to their unique learning styles and needs.

Piano Teacher

Ivana Bontempo Escola De Música
01.2018 - 12.2019
  • Established a supportive learning environment that promoted open communication between students, parents, and faculty members.
  • Successfully prepared students for recitals, auditions, and competitions by implementing effective practice strategies.
  • Organized special events like recitals and concerts to showcase student talent within the community.
  • Enhanced student performance by incorporating innovative teaching methods and individualized lesson plans.
  • Improved student understanding of piano theory through creative games and activities.
  • Collaborated with other music teachers to design interdisciplinary projects that enhanced overall musical understanding.
  • Evaluated and graded students' class work, performances, projects, assignments and papers.

Piano Teacher

Estúdio Ana Paula Torres - Escola De Música E Artes
01.2018 - 12.2019
  • Created supportive and inclusive learning environments to foster positive classrooms that support student growth and learning.
  • Collaborated with community arts organizations to bring real-world experiences into classrooms and provide students with opportunities for learning and growth.
  • Provided extra help and support to offer additional support to struggling students and encourage success in art subjects.
  • Evaluated and graded students' class work, performances, projects, assignments and papers.
  • Assessed student learning to evaluate student learning and progress through tests, performances and portfolios.
  • Boosted student confidence in their abilities through consistent positive reinforcement and encouragement.
  • Introduced students to appropriate hand positioning, finger transitions and pedal use.
  • Communicated with parents regarding upcoming events and student progress.
  • Developed lesson plans, selected course materials and prepared assignments.
  • Developed personalized curriculum for each student to cater to their unique learning styles and needs.
  • Provided constructive feedback on technique, expression, posture, rhythm-reading skills during weekly private lessons.

Education

Master of Arts - Cultural Anthropology

University of Oklahoma
Norman, OK
05-2027

Master of Arts - Piano Performance

University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY
09-2025

Exchange Visitor - Piano Performance

University of Georgia
Athens, GA
05-2023

Certificate of Technical Studies - Culinary Arts And Haute Cuisine

Instituto Gastronômico Das Américas - IGA
Brazil
08-2023

Bachelor of Arts - Piano Performance

Universidade Federal De Goiás
Brazil
08-2023

High School Diploma -

Colégio Protágoras
12-2017

Accomplishments

2021 – 2022
Piano Forte Quarentena
Description: In response to remote work measures adopted to combat COVID-19, the traditional Piano Forte Project by EMAC, originally carried out in person, was adapted to remote format during the entire social restriction period. The project offers piano lessons taught by EMAC/UFG professors to the general community and the academic community, for participants over 16 years old with prior piano study. Activities include practical classes and progressive preparation on the instrument, aiming to strengthen pianistic tradition in the State of Goiás. Classes are conducted in masterclass format via Google Meet on Thursdays, from 5 to 7 pm. Students post recordings in advance, and professors provide detailed feedback, study strategies, and technical corrections, fostering interaction between teachers and students working from home with their instruments.


2021 –2022
Pianistic Technique and Interpretation – UNIRIO
Description: Designed as a laboratory for discussion and reflection on pianistic practice, this project welcomes participants from the broader community and promotes exchanges between intermediate-level piano students, undergraduate music students, and faculty at UNIRIO. The project fosters a rich environment of musical dialogue, experience-sharing, and artistic development. Coordinated at the Villa-Lobos Institute of UNIRIO.


2020 – 2020
Velho Novo Mundo
Description: A concert cycle project created in 2013, aiming to perform recitals in concert halls, theaters, and religious festivals across Goiás and Brazil. The initiative promotes Brazilian and international classical music—often little known—through performances preceded by didactic commentary to enhance understanding and appreciation. Activities included solo piano and chamber music concerts (voice, viola, flute, clarinet).


2020 – 2020
Medicine in Concert
Description: A cultural initiative originally launched in 2007 by the Faculty of Medicine at UFG to cultivate appreciation for high-quality music in the academic community. Concerts were held monthly until 2014, and after the reopening of Teatro Asklepiós, the project was resumed in 2020, offering performances that enriched university and local cultural life.


2020 – 2020
Musicology Laboratory Braz Wilson Pompeu de Pina Filho – LABMUS/EMAC/UFG
Description: The LABMUS project fosters systematic production and dissemination of musicological research at national and international levels. Focus areas include recovering and documenting musical memories—sounds, images, written records—that form part of Goiás and Brazilian musical heritage. Activities include creating written and audiovisual documentation.


2019 – 2020
Unimed Concerts
Description: A concert series (two performances) presenting diverse repertoires and featuring nationally and internationally renowned musicians. The initiative aimed at audience development, music appreciation, and strengthening cultural exchange between UFG and Unimed.


2019 – 2020
Concertos UFG
Description: A chamber music and solo recital series hosted at UFG’s Cultural Center. Free admission concerts made music accessible to the wider community and fostered university engagement with society.


2019 – 2020
Piano Forte
Description: Free individual piano lessons offered by EMAC/UFG professors to the general and academic community for participants over 16 years old with prior piano study. The project emphasized progressive instrumental training to reinforce the state’s pianistic tradition.


2019 – 2019
Educational Concerts for Youth
Description: A concert series (four performances) presenting varied repertoires with prominent national and international musicians. Aimed at audience development, music education, and outreach to schools and the general public. Activities took place at UFG’s Cultural Center and EMAC/UFG Theater, including participation of public-school students in Goiânia.

Velho Novo Mundo
Description: A concert cycle project created in 2013 with performances across Goiás and Brazil, including integration with religious and cultural festivities. Promoted Brazilian and international classical music, with contextual commentary to enhance musical appreciation. Activities included piano solo and chamber music concerts.


Certification

  • Pianistic Advancement with Theresa Bogard, University of Wyoming, USA – 2022
  • Pianistic Advancement with Lígia Moreno, Universidade de Brasília, Brazil – 2022
  • Pianistic Advancement with Ana Flávia Frazão, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Brazil – 2021
  • Masterclass with Ney Fialkow, University of Wyoming, USA – 2025
  • Masterclass with Dr. Mack, University of Wyoming, USA – 2025
  • Masterclass with Sylvia Thereza, Natália Mendoza Estúdio de Piano & Experiência Musical, Brazil – 2022
  • Masterclass with Melanie Chae, V Gramado in Concert, Brazil – 2019
  • Masterclass with Enrique Graf, 34º Festival Internacional de Inverno da UFSM, Brazil – 2019
  • Masterclass with Mauricy Martin, 43º Festival Internacional de Música Belkiss S. Carneiro de Mendonça, Brazil – 2020
  • The Musical World of Vienna, University of Wyoming, USA – 2025 (600h)
  • Continuing Education: Research Visit, Arnold Schönberg Center, University of Wyoming, USA – 2025 (100h)
  • Continuing Education: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, University of Wyoming, USA – 2025 (90h)

Languages

Inglês
Espanhol
Português
Alemão

Timeline

Assistant Cook

University of Wyoming
05.2025 - 08.2025

Graduate Assistant for Historical Perspective III

University of Wyoming
01.2025 - 05.2025

Graduate Assistant for Intro to Global Music

University of Wyoming
01.2025 - 05.2025

Catering Staff Member

University of Wyoming
06.2024 - 08.2025

Graduate Assistant for Theory Class IV

University of Wyoming
01.2024 - 12.2024

Choir Accompanist

University of Wyoming
08.2023 - 09.2025

Piano Accompanist

University of Wyoming
08.2023 - 09.2025

Graduate Teaching Assistant

University of Wyoming
08.2023 - 05.2025

Piano Class Instructor

University of Wyoming
01.2023 - 05.2025

Piano Teacher

Natália Mendoza Estúdio De Piano & Experiência Musical
01.2018 - 12.2019

Piano Teacher

MVSIKA! Centro De Estudos
01.2018 - 12.2019

Piano Teacher

Ivana Bontempo Escola De Música
01.2018 - 12.2019

Piano Teacher

Estúdio Ana Paula Torres - Escola De Música E Artes
01.2018 - 12.2019

Master of Arts - Cultural Anthropology

University of Oklahoma

Master of Arts - Piano Performance

University of Wyoming

Exchange Visitor - Piano Performance

University of Georgia

Certificate of Technical Studies - Culinary Arts And Haute Cuisine

Instituto Gastronômico Das Américas - IGA

Bachelor of Arts - Piano Performance

Universidade Federal De Goiás

High School Diploma -

Colégio Protágoras

Name In Citations

ARAUJO, I. C. O. P.

Lattes Url

http://lattes.cnpq.br/4042312841722381

Personal Information

  • ID Type: Lattes ID
  • ID Number: 4042312841722381
  • Nationality: Brasil

Awards

  • Music Talent Award, University of Wyoming – 2023–2025
  • Graduate Assistantship, University of Wyoming – 2023–2025
  • Cunningham Piano Scholarship – 2023–2024
  • Hylton Piano Scholarship – 2023–2024
  • Garcia Wright Music Fund – 2024–2025
  • Margaret E. McGaw Memorial Scholarship – 2024–2025
  • Applied Music Lesson Fees Support – 2023–2025
  • Allen, T.C. & Clydene Music Fund – 2023–2025
  • Honorable Mention, 2nd Phase, Brazilian Physics Olympiad – 2013

Publications

  • SOUZA, A. G. R.; ARAUJO, I. C. O. P. Músicas Indígenas Brasileiras: Entre os Meandros da Colonialidade e Decolonialidade. Musicologias em Interpelações Contemporâneas, Vol. 1, pp. 87–111, 2023.
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P. Interconnection of Music and Language in Indigenous Cultural Preservation: Archival Research on Northern Arapaho Traditions. 2025 (Master’s Thesis, University of Wyoming)
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P. “Eunice Katunda: do Dodecafonismo à construção de um imaginário nacional.” 2024 (Presentation/Seminar)
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P. “Different ways to think about virtuosity: an anthropological and sociological approach.” 2024 (Conference/Colloquium)
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P. “VILLA-LOBOS AND THE INDIGENOUS INFLUENCE IN HIS WORKS.” 2024 (Presentation/Other)
  • SOUZA, A. G. R.; ARAUJO, I. C. O. P. “Eunice Katunda: do Dodecafonismo à construção de um imaginário nacional.” 2023 (Conference/Colloquium)
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P.; CARNEIRO, G. C. “Recital Didático para a Juventude.” 2022 (Conference/Colloquium)
  • SOUZA, A. G. R.; ARAUJO, I. C. O. P. “Criação e performance da música de matriz indígena no Brasil: Dois estudos de caso: Marlui Miranda e Brisa De La Cordillera.” 2022 (Congress/Presentation)
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P.; MEIRELES, M. “O Pink Money e o Streaming.” 2021 (Seminar/Presentation)
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P.; SOUZA, A. G. R. “MÚSICA INDÍGENA BRASILEIRA: Características, significações e processos de hibridação.” 2021 (Seminar/Presentation)
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P.; SOUZA, A. G. R. “MÚSICA INDÍGENA A PARTIR DA APRECIAÇÃO DO VÍDEO ‘CANTOS DA FLORESTA’ DO GRUPO MAWACA: Características, cruzamentos culturais, significações e ressignificações.” 2021 (Communication/Presentation)
  • ARAUJO, I. C. O. P. “Eunice Katunda: trajetória e música.” 2020 (Presentation/Seminar)