Our eclectic approach ensures that you are capable of incorporating different methodologies into your teaching, to meet the needs of all learners — such as Orff Schulwerk, Kodály Method, Dalcroze Eurhythmics, Comprehensive Musicianship, Music Learning Theory and more. You will learn from level-certified instructors in many of these approaches.
This breadth allows you to head to the classroom with a helpful array of approaches, understandings, and pedagogical tools to best support all students.
Our curriculum provides opportunities outside of class in area ensembles, leadership in our nationally recognized local student chapter of C-NAfME & C-NYSSMA, participation in area workshops and in-services, leading events on campus and in the community, as well as getting involved in other organizations on campus. Some of our music education students study abroad and pursue work abroad as well. Some music education students are active collegiate athletes as well.
It’s important to me to remain connected to our students, even after they leave the classroom and the school. I remain “on call” for them for Zoom meet-ups or texting in order to provide additional support, assistance, and to celebrate their accomplishments. Music education alumni know that they can reach out to me. Often, we’ll meet at an area coffee shop to talk and for me to learn more about their work and aspirations after they graduate.
Our collegiate chapter of the National Association for Music Education (C-NAfME) has received multiple Chapter of Excellence Awards from the national association (NAfME). This endorsement of the success of our student leaders and members speaks clearly about the caliber of our degree program and the opportunities that we provide to our future music educators.
All music teachers should consider advanced “levels-study” in the Orff Schulwerk process. We are a proud partner with the Greater Rochester American Orff Schulwerk Association (GRAOSA) and welcome music educators to complete levels training during our annual Orff Schulwerk Summer Music Institute.
Having completed levels courses in this approach was a real game-changer for me. It also helped me to be a better teacher to students of all ages and subject areas.
“Teaching begins when the student has a problem. All else is simply instruction.” — Émile Jaques-Dalcroze, a Swiss composer, musician, and music educator
“Dr. Koster is the professor who will always be in your corner, making sure you receive all the support you need to be successful in all you pursue. From class, to student teaching, to post-graduation, and into your journey as a music educator, Dr. Koster has a wealth of knowledge and will be there for you to help you to be your best.
Nazareth’s music education program provided a wonderful community to learn and grow. The support of my professors and peers as we explored each other's ideas and the ever-changing world of education helped me to become the educator I am today.”
— Hannah Komar ’23 (music education degree, specializing in voice, with a minor in music history), music teacher, Fayetteville-Manlius (NY) School District.
Bassoon Studio Class: Prof. Koster works with music major Dominic Vesely during their weekly class, where they were making and adjusting their bassoon reeds.