[vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Micaela Barber has been with Providence School of Arts since we opened. She was one of the integral members of the Summer Arts planning team. She has devoutly walked with us as we continue to strive towards our vision. Micaela holds a Bachelor of Music from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota and a Masters in Music for French horn performance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory. She has also taught general music at Christ the King Elementary in Kansas City, Kansas and proudly teaches private lessons at home and at Northland Cathedral School of Music.
[blockquote indent=”yes” ]God created music for a purpose, and I want my students to glimpse the glory of God as we learn about the complexities and beauty in music[/blockquote]
Tell us a little about your career and how you got into Music.
I showed interest in music at an early age. My mom noticed this in me and set up piano lessons for me in 3rd grade. I undoubtedly know that my passion grew from there. I eventually started band in 5th playing the French horn and had the opportunity to lead the congregation vocally at church when I was in 8th grade.
My mother was definitely influential in my journey in music because I never would have pursued these music endeavors without her seeking them out and encouraging me to do it. By the time it came for me to decide on my major in college, I feel I was a well-rounded musician. Though I chose to major in horn performance, I still pursed my singing, piano, and music education; all things I love.
What do you enjoy about teaching?
I enjoy making music understandable and exciting for my students. Looking back on my own music education, I found that certain things were confusing to me and perhaps not explained very well at the time. I always strive to make sure my students understand the concepts I teach. I love music and I want others to experience the joy that music can give them.
Why do you think that music education is important?
I think music education is important because it helps children grow up to be a well-rounded person. Music gives us context for other art forms, history, math, science, among many other subjects. The discipline needed to study an instrument or perform is directly related to all endeavors students will pursue after they leave my classroom. Thinking logically through musical passages, practicing challenging sections in a piece of music, or performing in front of an audience builds character and a hardworking attitude.
Being a semester into the program, how is it going?
I am amazed at how much we have been able to cover in just a short amount of time. I have seen each student overcome challenges and grow as musicians. It has been so rewarding and exciting to witness!
What is the most important thing you want your students to learn?
The most important thing I want my students to learn is how to appreciate music and themselves. God created music for a purpose, and I want my students to glimpse the glory of God as we learn about the complexities and beauty in music. I also want my students to see that God created them as an individual and to embrace their musical talents as well as the challenges they face.
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