On Friday, November 19th UConn Early College Experience, and the UConn ECE Faculty Coordinator for Music Megan Lyons met with certified Music Instructors for their annual professional development conference. The Instructors checked in and introduced themselves to Megan and spoke about the courses they teach in their high schools. The group also spoke about modernizing music curricula and provided examples citing diversity initiatives and current events.

The Keynote presentation “Building Towards Culturally Responsive and Just Futures in the Music Classroom” was given by Karen Cueva who discussed culturally responsive and engaging teaching techniques in music.

Karen Cueva is a Peruvian-American violinist, educator, and arts administrator, who believes in the power of creative youth development as a vital part of social infrastructure and cultural production. Karen is currently the Assistant Director for Learning and Engagement Programs at Carnegie Hall's Weill Music Institute. There, she oversees professional development for music educators working with youth across the country, both in schools and community music programs. She is also a Knowledge and Strategy Associate for The Lewis Prize for Music, a foundation that partners with leaders who create positive change by investing in young people through music. Karen has earned degrees from The Juilliard School and Harvard University.

UConn Music courses offered through ECE.