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Name: Linda B. Van Norman

Position & school(s): General music at Kaiser Middle School; chamber music at Monticello High School.

How long have you been teaching? 21 years. How long at Monticello? 11 years.

Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold? B. Music, M. Music, Manhattan School of Music. CAS from SUNY New Paltz.

What’s your favorite part of your job? Teaching children how to perform music.

Why did you become a music teacher? I love music and I love teaching.

Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher? No.

In your opinion, why do you think music education is important? 
Music education teaches students about various aspects of music and helps with mastering other subjects and how to learn about and be successful at other topics.

How has music influenced your life? It has been a daily focus of my life and has added a great deal of enjoyment to my life.

Who is your favorite musician? Deborah Voigt. 

What CD is in your CD player right now? Mendelsohn sacred songs based upon the Psalms and other texts. 

What are your hobbies? Taking care of my home and traveling to see relatives and for pleasure. 

What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician? Practice, practice, practice - aim for perfection.