Episode 147: From College Leader to First-Year Teacher with Olivia Durrence

In Episode 147 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux sits down with recent University of Georgia graduate Olivia Durrence to discuss leadership, service, string teaching, and the transition from college student to first-year orchestra director.

Olivia recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from UGA with a degree in Music Education, a minor in Educational Psychology, and an ESOL certificate. During her undergraduate career, she served as President of the UGA ASTA Chapter, helped revive the organization on campus, taught with the UGA String Project, conducted educational research, and gained valuable classroom experience through substitute teaching and student teaching in Gwinnett County.

In this conversation, Olivia shares:

• Her journey from piano and violin student to passionate cellist
• Lessons learned from exceptional music teachers and mentors
• Reviving the UGA ASTA chapter and developing leadership skills
• Teaching with the UGA String Project
• Organizing and preparing students for a performance at the GMEA In-Service Conference
• Research on music education and language acquisition
• Navigating the job search as a first-year teacher
• Trusting your instincts when evaluating teaching opportunities
• Preparing to begin her career at Lilburn Middle School

Olivia’s story is a reminder that leadership, service, and professional involvement can begin long before graduation. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment to students offer inspiration for both future and veteran music educators.

Whether you’re a preservice teacher, mentor, or experienced educator, you’ll find valuable insights in this conversation about growth, opportunity, and finding your place in the profession.

#OrchestraTeacherPodcast #StringEducation #MusicEducation #ASTA #OrchestraTeacher #FutureMusicEducator #MusicTeacherLife #UGA #StringProject #Orchestra #MusicLeadership #TeacherGrowth #OliviaDurrence #MusicEducator

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