Who’s Who in the Monticello Performing Arts Department?
The success of the music and performing arts department is largely due to its fine instructors.
John Bernstein – MHS
Timothy Buckley – RJK
Kayla Cedeno – RJK
Dawn Clayton – Cooke
Benjamin Corbett – Chase
Aimee Haylett – MHS Orchestra
Kevin Hyppolite – KLR
Marissa Jurow – MHS/RJK
Erin Kowalski – RJK Orchestra
Michael Mingo – RJK, Elementary Band
Nicholas Piperato – MHS
Andrew Verdino – MHS, RJK, Elementary
June Wheeler – Dance
John Bernstein
When did you start teaching?
2013
Where did you go to college?
I completed my B.M in Music Education with a Piano Concentration, as well as my M.M in Music Education at the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
As a performer, I’ve had the honor of performing in many exciting performance venues, including Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, Webster Hall, and the Shandelee Music Festival, as both a piano soloist and accompanist. I perform regularly as a solo pianist, accompanist, and organist around the tri-state area. I recently launched my business, John Bernstein Music, which encompasses my work as both a performer as well as a music educator. As an educator, I’ve written several articles published in various music education publications, including School Music News. I’ve had the honor of working closely with the Crane School of Music as a part of the Joy Douglass Visiting Master Teacher Sessions. I’ve also had the pleasure of presenting at several Music Education Conferences, including NYSSMA, APME and NAfME.
My Master’s Thesis, Portfolio Construction, Time Sampling and Assessment: Student Achievement in a Secondary General Music Classroom, has received critical acclaim among experts in the field and across several music education institutions.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
The best part of my day is watching students find excitement and joy in music.
Why did you become a music teacher?
I’ve had some influential mentors in my life show me the excitement of music education and how it can be approached through so many diverse avenues. Being a music educator allows me to think creatively and help my students do the same.
Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher?
I worked for the Jamaica Field Service Project where I helped create and facilitate music education & therapy programs throughout rural Jamaica.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
Music Education provides a bridge between student’s individual musical experiences and their endless musical potential.
Who is your favorite musician?
Dave Matthews, Jimmy Buffett, Streetlight Manifesto, among many others!
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
Some standout albums that come to mind are Bon Iver’s “For Emma, Forever Ago” and Van Morrison’s “Moondance”
What are your hobbies?
Skiing, Golfing, Paddleboarding, Biking, Traveling, and spending time together with my wife & son!
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Decide what to be and go be it.
Timothy Buckley
When did you start teaching?
2007
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
I went to SUNY Potsdam Crane School Music for a Bachelors in music education. Then to New York Institute of Technology for a Masters in Instructional Technology. I last attended SUNY New Paltz for an advanced certificate in administration.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
I have played leads in community theater and been awarded three TANYS for my roles and work. I’ve also been in some Opera productions and even some personal recording projects.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Proving to students that something hard is still possible and that with work and practice they will be better than me one day.
Why did you become a music teacher?
To help students appreciate music and see if I can spark some interest and joy or fan the ember into a flame!
Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher?
I worked as a P.E. teacher for a daycare, was a farm hand for a summer and did some landscaping in Colorado.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
I know music education is important. If it is not, then why are there musicians, composers, sound engineers being used in every television program, movie, commercial and big events? Why does every society use music to celebrate life and death? Why is the pentatonic scale the root of multiple cultures and countries’ music? How can something that permeates so many aspects of so many people and cultures not be important?
Who is your favorite musician?
I like them all, but currently I’m enjoying Ripe and Daoi Freyer.
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
Boys II Men, Sons of Pitches, and Bare-Naked Ladies Stunt Album.
What are your hobbies?
I love to run, bike, hike, refinish furniture or anything with wood working. I also love audio production and dabble in banjo.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Talent cannot take you as far as determination and hard work. Talent can be wasted, but hard work and commitment to one’s passion is always fruitful.
Kayla Cedeno
When did you start teaching?
I started teaching in 2024 this year at the school district.
Where did you go to college?
I went to the College of Saint Rose.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is teaching ukuleles to 7th grade.
Why did you become a music teacher?
I became a music teacher because I’ve always loved music and never wanted to let go of it. My high school music teacher inspired me to teach music.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
Music education is important because students can connect with each other and are free to express themselves.
Who is your favorite musician?
My favorite musician is Santana.
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
The album that shaped me is Queen’s News of the World.
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies include biking and baking.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
The advice I would give to an aspiring musician is find your circle that makes you feel positive and always remember why you love music.
Dawn A. Clayton
When did you start teaching?
I started teaching here in Monticello in October 2006.
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
I graduated from Ulster County Community College with an Associates in Individualized Studies, then SUNY New Paltz with Bachelors in Education and Music Performance, and a Master’s Degree as a Literacy Specialist.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
I was a member of the Ellenville Jazz Ensemble that was named the “Best HS Jazz Ensemble in the Country”, in 1982-1983. I had the opportunity to travel with the band to play in the Montreux Jazz Festival in Montreux, Switzerland.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Watching the students glow with pride after a well performed concert. I know I’ve done my job when they ask when they get to perform again.
Why did you become a music teacher?
I have always had a love for the arts. It has played an important part of my life. Music has given me many opportunities to travel and to meet people. I love to share with students the joy of music and the opportunities that it brings.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
When we teach music, we touch on everything else in life. Music is scientific. Music is mathematical. Music is a foreign language. Music is history. Music is physical education. Music is philosophy. Music is art. But most importantly, music is the human experience. Music inspires thought, reflection and emotion. We teach music so students can learn a way to express themselves. We learn to work together, and we learn that we can express our individuality.
Who is your favorite musician?
I don’t have a favorite, but I have country music on my radio in my car.
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
No, but there is a style. Jazz music incorporates both working together to make music as well as allowing individual expression.
What are your hobbies?
Crafting and farming.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Don’t ever give up. One day you will find what works best for you and what makes you truly happy.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Listen to your music teacher!
Benjamin Corbett
When did you start teaching?
I started teaching in 2011 for the NYC Department of Education at PS7 in Queens and PS32 in Brooklyn.
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
I have 3 degrees! Advanced Certificate in Music Education from CUNY Brooklyn College, Master’s in Music from NYU, Bachelor’s in Music from CSU Stanislaus.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
I raised over 5K for a grade level ukulele program at my previous school.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
The ability and freedom to teach creatively and inspire the next generation of musicians.
Why did you become a music teacher?
Since I was a child, music been integral in my life. Combined with my love of elementary school, it’s in my opinion the best teaching job and I cannot see myself happier in other job setting.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
All the best musicians had a teacher at some point to guide and help them in their journey. Teachers create and nurture future professional musicians.
Who is your favorite musician?
Aside from the great composers like Beethoven, Bach and Brahms, I’m really inspired by Taimane Gardner and Jake Shimabukuro (world famous ukulele players from Hawaii).
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
Taimane Gardner’s album “Ukulele Dance” gets me going in the car to work most mornings.
What are your hobbies?
When I’m not honking, belting, or tickling the ivory keys I’m doing P90X workouts, CrossFit, and trail hiking. I also enjoy road trips to Nova Scotia.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Practice, find a great private teacher and apply for music scholarships.
Anything else you’d like to add?
LEARN MORE THAN ONE INSTRUMENT!
Aimee Haylett
When did you start teaching?
I started teaching in December 2016 as a daily sub and eventually did a leave replacement for a high school and elementary orchestra. I started my first full time teaching position in July 2018 as a Pre-K teacher and Music Director at a preschool in Erie, PA.
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
I went to college at SUNY Fredonia for my Bachelor of Music in Music Education. I have a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education from Capella University.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
I created and directed the Music Learning Adventures program for the preschool at my first job, and successfully expanded it from Pre-K students only through to include Ones, Twos, Preschool, and Pre-K groups. I was also the guest conductor for the All County Orchestra in Sullivan County for their 2022 festival, which is by far my favorite professional honor and experience yet, aside from my current job.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is getting to know my students and their families, and to be able to connect with them about things outside of music. Of course I love to be able to see my students grow musically, from not being able to play the first line of a piece to performing the entire piece with confidence, but seeing them grow as people and hearing about who they are is very special as well- and teaching Orchestra at the high school, I am lucky enough to have a lot of them for four years to see this progress over their entire high school career.
Why did you become a music teacher?
I became a music teacher because I felt the most support from the music teachers I had growing up, from elementary to high school. I had fantastic classroom teachers and teachers in other subjects too that I loved, but the music department was my home and where I felt most “myself”, my most confident. I had a place where I felt I belonged, and the music teachers really encouraged me and helped present opportunities to me that would otherwise not have been available to me. I want to give that back to my students- the feeling of belonging somewhere, the encouragement, the opportunity to do things that maybe you wouldn’t be able to do outside of school for whatever reasons.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
I think music education is important because it connects a lot of different concepts for students, while allowing an outlet for creativity whether it be with a group (orchestra) or independently (solo work). We learn about the history of a piece of music and the composer, what was going on in the world, and how we connect it to ourselves and how we interpret it. We break down rhythms and apply mathematical concepts when it comes to subdivisions, or when we talk about music theory. Students collaborate daily in Orchestra, and learn how to work with others to meet our end goals. Sometimes we have discussions about how we will play something, or reflect on what we can do better. Other times, we may have students write program notes about a concert which involves a certain level of academic writing and research. They learn that they are important, their individual part, is important to the group and they matter. If they don’t know their part, then we fall apart as a team. Music can help build their confidence and students can take pride in creating something new- even if a piece has been played before, no two musicians will ever play something the same.
Who is your favorite musician?
My favorite musician is a bit of a tie. I would honestly say my former teacher and mentor, Nancy Wegrzyn. She is a violist, theorist, teacher, composer, advocate, so many different things in the music world and I have always admired her. She had the most influence on my development as a musician, and if it weren’t for her support for me in high school as my teacher, I may not have turned out to be the music teacher I am today. In terms of “popular” musicians, I’d say Bruno Mars. I love all of his music, he can sing so well even live, and his dance moves are fantastic.
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
This is tough. My music “obsessions” rotate so often, and I have so many favorite pieces and albums that it’s difficult to give a clear answer. Honestly, there are albums or songs or playlists that stick around for a while on my “most played” because it’s the most defining at that moment in time. There are important memories with so many pieces, I can’t pick one.
What are your hobbies?
When I’m not practicing and making music, I love to get together with friends and play video games and board games. I also enjoy traveling, writing stories, and working out.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Practice. Don’t just play through the same easy parts over and over again, break it down into small pieces, even two notes, then slowly expand out. Ask for help when you need it- your teachers will not judge you, and they WANT you to ask them how to do something. Chances are, your teachers have gone through the same or similar problems when they were learning and understand what you’re struggling with.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Monticello is a great place to be for the arts. I grew up here, graduated from Monticello High School, and now I’m back in what I call my “dream job” and I have been loving every single moment I spend with these students in and out of the Orchestra room.
Kevin Hyppolite
When did you start teaching?
I started teaching this school year!!! I’m excited to start my career with the Monticello School District
Where did you go to college?
SUNY Potsdam
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Being able to center music in my life. I can spend more time now expanding my skills and enjoyment being a musician.
Why did you become a music teacher?
I never initially saw myself as being a music teacher, however in my junior and senior year of college I really got hooked into the creative ways I can approach music lessons with students, and now every time I make a lesson students enjoy, I’m at my happiest.
Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher?
I perform, and I still do now.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
Music represents a key aspect of humanity. With music we tell stories and histories of all cultures, we play games, share our personal feelings and opinions of how we view the world. The more our students understand the importance that music brings to our lives, the more capable they are of creating art that fits their vision and be able to see the vision of others.
Who is your favorite musician?
Kendrick Lamar
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
Pride by Kendrick Lamar
What are your hobbies?
Playing my saxophone, Reading, working out, shopping for clothes, researching topics that I find interesting.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Keep playing and listening to music. The more you can copy from professionals, the more your own creative voice will shine.
Marissa Jurow
When did you start teaching?
I started my teaching career in 2009. I’ve been teaching in Monticello since 2014.
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
I earned my BM in Vocal Performance from Rutgers University, my MM in Vocal Performance and Vocal Pedagogy from Westminster Choir College, and my MAT in Music Education with a concentration in Voice from Montclair State University.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
I have had the privilege to perform in several concerts with the NY Philharmonic Orchestra as part of the Westminster Symphonic Choir. I’ve also sung at the Mostly Mozart festival in Avery Fisher Hall as part of the Rutgers University Kirkpatrick Choir and at Carnegie Hall with the Boston Symphony Orchestra as part of the Westminster Symphonic Choir.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is helping students find their voice.
Why did you become a music teacher?
I became a music teacher because music has been such an important aspect in my life. I have had many wonderful teachers that inspired me and I wanted to give back to other people.
Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher?
Before I became a chorus teacher, I was a private voice teacher, a waitress, and a performer.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
Music education is important because music enriches our lives and gives us an opportunity to delve deeper into who we are.
Who is your favorite musician?
I don’t have one favorite musician. I enjoy listening to a wide variety of artists.
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
When I was in 8th grade my music teacher played the soundtrack to Phantom of the Opera for our chorus class. I instantly fell in love with the music, and it became the catalyst for me to start taking voice lessons.
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies are singing in operas and community choruses, reading, and crocheting.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Practice!! If you want something you need to work hard to accomplish it. Don’t wait for it to come to you. When things get difficult, remember why you wanted to become a musician. Always keep the joy in what you do.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Believe in yourself! Every voice is unique.
Erin Kowalski
When did you start teaching?
I started teaching in 2014 as a substitute and leave replacements. I began my full-time teaching in 2018 at the Middletown Enlarged City School District. I have been teaching at Monticello since March of 2022.
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
I attended C.W. Post (now LIU Post) from 2009-2013 majoring on piano and received my bachelor’s degree in music education. I attended St. Joseph’s College from 2014-2016 receiving a Master of Arts in childhood special education with an annotation in severe disabilities.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
In 2012 I performed with the C.W. Post wind symphony at Carnegie Hall as part of a relief fund concert.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of being a music teacher is working with my students. Everyday is an adventure and an opportunity to provide my students with new learning experiences. I love being able to teach and show my love for music to my students.
Why did you become a music teacher?
I became a music teacher because of my passion for music. All my life music has been an outlet for me and a way to express myself in a unique way, and was always there when I needed it. I became a music teacher because I want to share my love for music and experiences with my students. I believe that music plays a special role in a person’s life whether it be through performing, creating, or just listening to music. I want to share my experiences and show students that music can open them to so many opportunities, not just in musically but in other areas.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
Music education is important because it provides so many benefits for students. One of these benefits is it helps students become more disciplined not only in music but in their lives. Music is a discipline that helps our students learn to multitask, especially when they are performing on an instrument. Music education allows students to express themselves in ways that they may not be able to outside of music, and truly allows them to be themselves through playing an instrument, creating music, or through their taste in musical genre. One of the most important things that I believe that music education is important is that it links many other subject areas together such as math, science, history, and ELA. Studies have also shown that music activates more parts of the brain at once than any other activity and or subject area.
Who is your favorite musician?
My favorite musician is Brendan Urie who is the lead singer and composer for the band Panic! At The Disco. Brendan is my favorite because of his talent, dedication, and passion towards his music. No matter what song he writes he always puts himself into the music and displays his passion for what he does. Brendan is not only the lead singer and has an amazing vocal range, but he also writes and performs on all the instruments used in his music. Brendan performs on guitar, electric bass, piano, and percussion. Brendan is a musician that truly loves what he does and wants others to enjoy in his passion.
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies include playing piano and violin, photography, exercising, reading, tennis and bowling.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Never think that you know everything there is about your instrument because you may find that there is something you do not know or need to improve on. Never let yourself think that you are only restricted to your primary instrument. Let yourself explore other instruments outside of your ensemble, just because you play a band instrument does not mean you can’t explore the string instruments. Take lessons to help not only yourself but to help your students.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Be yourself and let your personality come through in your love for music, and lastly have fun!
“Without music life would be a mistake” -Friedrich Nietzsche
Michael Mingo
Position & school(s): Department Instructional Lead, HS, RJK, Elementary band; lessons 5-12.
When did you start teaching?
23 years. How long at Monticello? 21 years.
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
Nassau Community College – AAS, Music performance; SUNY Fredonia – Bachelors, Music education; NYIT – Masters with Distinction, Instructional Technology
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
Studied with Jim Chapin and Ronnie Gould. Also, met and worked with many great drummers/ percussionists. Played in many different rock bands, in one of the bands the guitar player’s father was Johnny Maestro who the first mullite cultural groups to receive a gold record. SUNY Fredonia Music Award recipient for three years. Performed with the world’s largest marimba ensemble at West Point in 1998 for the percussionist C.O. Musser.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Working with students and teaching music.
Why did you become a music teacher?
Because of great music teachers.
Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher?
I worked for a contractor building houses.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
It’s not just about music, it’s about life. How to be prepared, be focused.
How has music influenced your life?
It gave me a strong work ethic and taught me not to give up.
Who is your favorite musician?
Buddy Rich is a good start, there is not enough room on this page to list them all!
What CD is in your CD player right now?
Led Zeppelin, Celebration Day.
What are your hobbies?
Hanging out in my RV with my family, play my drums, ride my four-wheeler, hunting, competition shooting, railroads model/real.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
Practice, good quality practices!
Anything else you’d like to add?
Listen to all types of music.
Nicholas Piperato
When did you start teaching?
I began teaching full time in December 2019. Before that I was a substitute teacher and a student teacher in this district.
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
I went to SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music, where I received a Bachelor of Music in Music Education.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
My main professional accomplishment in life is learning to read music at the ripe old age of 22, pursuing a music education degree as a 25-year-old, non-traditional student, and gaining the opportunity to share my passion for music and teaching with the next generation of musicians.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of this job is how wonderfully surprising it can be. Whether it’s silly moments laughing with students, finding out a student has a hidden passion for music, or a class going very differently than what was planned but, in the end, leads to a deeper engagement. Being a teacher means you need to adapt and improvise as much, if not more than you plan, and you need to be ready to meet your students where they are. When you’re taking part in class as much as your students, the subject comes alive. It is magical, it is surprising, and it never gets old. The fact that I get to teach music, of all things… What’s more fun than that?
Why did you become a music teacher?
To be honest, I became a teacher, so that I could be a musician and still pay the bills… initially. Once I started studying Music Education at Crane, I discovered that being a music teacher was my calling. I was surrounded by amazing musicians in both my classmates and my professors. In the spotlight of a music school, I struggled to stand out as a performer of classical music, but my main strengths came in the form of leading a classroom. I spent hours a day in the practice room preparing for lessons, guitar ensemble performances, and student recitals, and I am proud of the player that I became, but when it came to teaching, there was something very natural about it. It clicked with me, and I found that I could be prepared to teach a class with no anxiety. Once I started working with students, that is when I knew that there was no better feeling than developing a connection and helping each student reach their potential.
Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher?
I studied business at the community college level while working as a Starbucks Barista. Every teacher should work in customer service at some point!
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
Music Education is important because it empowers students to become independently motivated while giving them an emotional outlet. In addition to the wide variety of developmental benefits, it’s also just fun.
Who is your favorite musician?
I don’t have a favorite musician, but my favorite band is The Beatles. The Beatles, in four people, encapsulate the qualities every musician should strive for. You have John, the fearless artist and free thinker. You have Paul, the brilliantly creative composer and workaholic. You have George, who is a meditative and thoughtful player and songwriter. And you have Ringo, who is steady and consistent.
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
The album that has had the most influence on me in my life is The Dark Side of the Moon, by Pink Floyd. The Dark Side of the Moon is a concept album that paints a portrait of modern life and the human experience. The album uses themes to describe life’s loneliness and brevity, as well as the pressures of conformity. However, the beautiful sentiment discoverable within the album is the idea that the loneliness and brevity of life can teach us gratitude and balance, and gift us with the space to learn to be ourselves.
What are your hobbies?
Other than playing and listening to music, my first and foremost priority is spending time with the people that I love: my family and friends. I end up spending a lot of my free time catching up on new movies and tv shows, but I also love playing video games, board games, dominoes, and I’m also an avid Bridge player (it’s a card game your grandma probably played). My other hobbies include reading, running, hiking, camping, and strength training
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
My advice to an aspiring musician is the same advice I would give to any young person: Find balance and self-discipline, but most importantly, enjoy yourself.
Andrew Verdino
When did you start teaching?
This is my 18th year teaching, 13th year in Monticello. I started teaching on long Island in 2007.
Where did you go to college?
I have a Bachelor of Music Education and Clarinet Performance from SUNY Fredonia. My Master of Music Degree is in Clarinet Performance from the Conservatory at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
I have been very fortunate to perform and audition throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. In Missouri, I was a member of the Liberty Symphony Orchestra and the Philharmonica of Greater Kansas City. I spent a summer in Utah performing in an Opera Orchestra at the Utah Shakespearean Festival. I spent two summers participating in the Siena Summer Music Festival in Siena, Italy, performing chamber music throughout the Tuscany Region. I regularly play with The New York Wind Symphony based in the Hudson Valley. As a member of this group, I performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City. My most memorable auditions were for the Mississippi Symphony and the United States Army “Pershing’s Own” Band that performs at the White House. I was one of only 17 applicants to be invited to audition for this prestigious group in 2007.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is when music takes over and the details go out the window.
Why did you become a music teacher?
I became a music teacher because of my high school band teacher, Mr. Hogan.
Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher?
After graduate school, I was a musician full-time and waited tables to pay the bills. I lived in Kansas City, Missouri for a few years and traveled throughout the US and Europe playing various gigs and auditions.
In your opinion, why do you think music education is important?
Music is the only academic subject that requires athletic ability and coordination. Music is also a “social” art form where you learn just as much from your colleagues as you do your teacher.
How has music influenced your life?
Everywhere I have been and every life experience I have had has come through music. I have learned so many different things from so many different people. I can’t remember the last time I traveled somewhere without my clarinets on my back.
Who is your favorite musician?
As a classically trained musician, non-classical music most interests me these days. I want to hear live performances. Anything live and in person; no tracks that can be cut and pasted. Jason Mraz and John Mayer are outstanding live, as well as Trey Anastasio.
Is there an album, song, or artist that you think defines you or at least shaped you?
Playlists for various gigs coming up and anything that comes up on YouTube Music…
What are your hobbies?
Driving and playing with my car. News and following politics. Formula 1 racing and college football.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician?
If you want to make it, you need to go “all-in” and make it your life, otherwise you may not get where you want to go. Remember: there will always be someone better than you, and learn how to practice. Don’t waste time learning bad habits – there is already not enough time to practice.
June Wheeler
When did you start teaching?
I started as the Dance teacher at Monticello in January of 2022. Before that, I had taught ballet, modern and repertory dance classes to advanced students for many years, whenever the occasion arose. My first experience teaching a Beginner Ballet class was in 2003, when I was on maternity leave from performing and was hugely pregnant with my twin daughters. My first high school teaching was as an English teacher in 2013, and I’ve also taught college writing at SUNY-New Paltz and first grade reading, science and art at the Middle Way School in Saugerties, NY.
Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold?
I have a BA from Barnard College, where I double-majored in Dance and English because of my love for both subjects, never dreaming that both majors would actually come in handy someday. My master’s (MAT English 7-12) is from SUNY New Paltz, and I have a New York State certification in Dance.
Any awards/accomplishments? Any claims to fame?
In college, I won an award for the dance criticism I had written for the campus newspapers and radio station. As a dancer, I was a recipient of a New York Dance and Performance Award (a “Bessie”) for my long career with the Mark Morris Dance Group. I performed on a Kennedy Center Honors television broadcast as part of the tribute to Mikhail Baryshnikov the year he received his honor, and I was lucky enough to appear in a dance film, “Falling Down Stairs,” with the cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Teaching the fundamentals of ballet and modern dance techniques and watching students learn new steps and improve daily is extremely satisfying. I also enjoy researching and learning new steps and styles, and getting to dance alongside my students as I teach. Best is putting it all together into a show and seeing everyone give a great performance. My students make my job both fun and rewarding.
Why did you become a dance teacher?
I love teaching, and I love dance. The chance to combine those two passions was irresistible.
Did you do anything else before you became a dance teacher?
I toured across the country and around the world as a dancer. I worked as a legal proofreader. I taught high school English, college writing, and first grade reading, science and art. I’m a proud Mom to my three beautiful, almost-grown children who I adore.
In your opinion, why do you think dance education is important?
Each new dance form studied exposes students to the history, culture, language and vocabulary, music and phrasing, and of course the physicality of that form. Dance education broadens a student’s outlook in wonderful ways, besides learning about muscles, injury prevention, and nutrition. And, as Monticello’s RULER training reminds us, “Physical activity pumps chemicals into our brains that lower stress, causing us to feel content and relaxed. Our organs and muscles start working better, circulating blood and increasing energy. Engaging in physical activity also may reduce symptoms of chronic stress, depression, and anxiety.” All of that is pretty important.
What are your hobbies?
At my house, we have five chickens, two beehives, and our small dog Josephine that all keep me busy whenever I’m not reading for pleasure or volunteering at our local library.
What advice would you offer to an aspiring dancer?
Learn as much as you can about the dance forms you want to get good at, always warm up carefully, and try never to miss a class–you can’t ever get it back!