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Name: Marie Gott

Position & school(s): Vocal and general music teacher in Cornelius Duggan Elementary School. Director of beginning bands at Duggan, Chase, and Rutherford.

How long have you been teaching? I graduated in May of 2007 and this is my first teaching position.

Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold? I attended Westminster College in New Wilmington, PA where I got my BA in Music Education.

Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame? I have sung in several choirs and have played saxophone in many bands. I wrote music that inspired an article in USA Today in 2001. A claim to fame... I met Bill Clinton for an anti-drug media campaign in Georgia.

What's your favorite part of your job? I love to see enthusiasm in my students and know that they enjoy learning music as much as I enjoy teaching it.

Why did you become a music teacher? My life was changed because of the efforts of music teachers. My music education played a vital role in who I was to become. If I could provide even one person with joy through music, then I've made a mark in this world. What more could I ask for?

Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher? I took private voice and saxophone lessons for 14 years and had been teaching private lessons for seven years. I've had a taste of being a waitress, grocery clerk, and librarian.

In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
I think that music is important to the academic skills of a student and that it builds character. Music taps into a persons creativity, which is a skill that many won't find elsewhere.

How has music influenced your life? I remember listening to my dad play his guitar when I was a little girl and being in awe of such a talent. Music has always been that in my life... awe inspiring. Music has brought me closer to people and has opened my eyes as to how to communicate in a meaningful way.

Who is your favorite musician? I have a lot of favorite musicians, as most of us probably do! On a personal level, I look up to my private voice teacher that I had growing up. She's an incredible musician and human being. My favorite composer is probably Giacomo Puccini.

What CD is in your CD player right now? I don't even want to know because the answer is probably embarrassing! Honestly, if you were to take a glance into my CD player, you might find bad (but fun) 80's music, because who doesn't love "Sunglasses at Night?" You may find opera too... it just depends on the day!

What are your hobbies? I sing, write, cook, and read. Chocolate chip pancakes are my specialty! I'm an avid movie-goer as well!

What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Never forget why you are a musician! It's not about impressing everyone or being the next American Idol; it's about creating art, and showing a part of yourself to others.

Anything else you'd like to add? I'm thrilled to be a part of the Monticello Central Schools and look forward to creating music in the elementary schools.