Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Nancy Richardson

Cranston,RI

Summary

Dynamic music educator with extensive experience (26 years) at Cranston Public Schools, adept at fostering student engagement through innovative lesson planning and adaptive teaching methods. Proven track record in enhancing musicianship and performance skills, while building strong relationships with students and parents. Expertise in orchestral strings and effective classroom management drives student success.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Music Teacher/Itinerant Teacher

Cranston Public Schools
08.2000 - 06.2025
  • Organized successful concerts and recitals, showcasing students'' talents and hard work.
  • Incorporated creative activities into lessons to engage students and spark interest in music.
  • Mentored students in various ensembles, boosting their confidence and performance skills.
  • Improved student musicianship by incorporating a variety of teaching methods and techniques.
  • Mentored students of different ages and backgrounds in music theory, composition and performance.
  • Established positive relationships with parents and guardians, promoting open communication and collaboration for student success.
  • Evaluated student progress regularly through formal assessments, adjusting instruction as needed for continual improvement.
  • Developed individualized lesson plans for diverse students, resulting in increased motivation and progress.
  • Implemented effective classroom management strategies, creating an inclusive environment conducive to learning.
  • Assisted in the selection and acquisition of instruments, sheet music, and equipment to support the music program''s growth.
  • Tailored instruction to meet individual student needs and cultivated inclusive learning environment.
  • Utilized current technology and interactive teaching methods to enhance student engagement.
  • Fostered positive and inclusive classroom environment, enabling students to confidently express their musical talents.
  • Adapted teaching methods to suit virtual learning environments, ensuring continuity of music education during remote learning periods.
  • Orchestrated annual school concerts to showcase student achievements, enhancing school's reputation in community.
  • Cultivated love for music in children of all ages with diverse, interactive lessons.
  • Organized workshops with professional musicians to provide students with real-world insights into music industry.
  • Created supportive and inclusive learning environments to foster positive classrooms that support student growth and learning.
  • Scheduled shows and performances in accordance with school calendar.
  • Managed classroom behavior to establish and maintain clear classroom behavior and discipline expectations.
  • Attended department meetings and collaborated with other fine arts teachers.
  • Worked with staff members and teachers to design comprehensive and individualized plans to optimize student education.
  • Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.

Suzuki Violin Teacher

The Music School of the Rhode Island Philharmonic
09.1997 - 06.2000
  • Encouraged creativity through improvisation exercises designed to help students explore personal expression within the context of classical violin performance.
  • Increased students'' technical proficiency through targeted practice exercises and focused instruction on proper violin technique.
  • Assisted beginner students in developing fundamental skills such as posture, bow hold, and finger placement to establish a strong foundation for future progress.
  • Collaborated with fellow music instructors to develop interdisciplinary programs, expanding students' exposure to different musical styles and techniques.
  • Collaborated with other teachers to coordinate ensemble opportunities for advanced students, enhancing their musical skills through teamwork and collaboration.
  • Evaluated student progress regularly through assessments and communication with parents, adjusting teaching strategies as needed to promote optimal growth.
  • Cultivated a culture of respect for one another's talents by facilitating group practice sessions where peers could learn from each other’s strengths while offering support for areas needing improvement.
  • Continuously sought professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices and emerging trends in the field of violin instruction.
  • Employed various teaching strategies, including Suzuki Method principles, to adapt to diverse learning needs among students of all age groups.
  • Certified in Suzuki violin instruction, Books 1-4

Violin/Viola Teacher/Orchestra Director

Medicine Hat College
09.1995 - 06.1997
  • Implemented innovative practice strategies that enabled efficient use of time during lessons and at home practice sessions.
  • Increased student engagement through the incorporation of interactive teaching methods and group activities.
  • Continuously improved teaching skills by attending professional development workshops and conferences related to music education.
  • Provided guidance on instrument maintenance, ensuring proper care for each student''s violin or viola.
  • Instilled essential time management habits within the classroom setting that translated into productive independent practice sessions.
  • Supported students'' growth by providing constructive feedback after individual and group performances.
  • Expanded students'' musical knowledge through exposure to diverse genres, techniques, and composers relevant to violin/viola and ensemble repertoire.
  • Developed strong relationships with parents, fostering a supportive environment for student success.
  • Adapted instruction to meet individual student needs to differentiate instruction to meet students' diverse learning needs and abilities.
  • Supervised students during rehearsals to provide direction to students during practice sessions.
  • Collaborated with community arts organizations to bring real-world experiences into classrooms and provide students with opportunities for learning and growth.
  • Selected repertoire that showcased the skillset of each musician while also challenging them to improve their individual abilities.
  • Collaborated with guest artists and soloists, ensuring seamless integration into the orchestra''s program and overall musical experience.
  • Expanded community outreach initiatives by organizing educational concerts and workshops for local schools and organizations.

Education

Master of Music - Music Performance/viola

Cleveland Institute of Music
Cleveland, OH

Bachelor of Education/ESL - Teaching English As A Second Language

McGill University, School of Education
Montreal, PQ
05-1995

Skills

  • Music theory and history
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Relationship building
  • Proficient in orchestral strings, guitar
  • Lesson planning
  • Ear training
  • Sight-reading proficiency
  • Multicultural music appreciation
  • Classroom management
  • Ensemble direction
  • Orchestral conducting
  • Adaptive teaching methods
  • Rehearsals
  • Expertise in instrumentation
  • School assembly preparations
  • Faculty collaboration
  • Program administration
  • Instructional materials selection
  • Performance direction
  • Performance preparation
  • Live orchestral performance
  • Curriculum development and lesson planning

Certification

Music, ESL K-12, RIDE - 2000-2028

Languages

French
Professional Working

Timeline

Music Teacher/Itinerant Teacher

Cranston Public Schools
08.2000 - 06.2025

Suzuki Violin Teacher

The Music School of the Rhode Island Philharmonic
09.1997 - 06.2000

Violin/Viola Teacher/Orchestra Director

Medicine Hat College
09.1995 - 06.1997

Master of Music - Music Performance/viola

Cleveland Institute of Music

Bachelor of Education/ESL - Teaching English As A Second Language

McGill University, School of Education

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