Music Educator Spotlight
Nelson Galarraga began studying the violin at the age of five at the “Colegio Emil Friedman” in Caracas, Venezuela. Mr. Galarraga moved to the United States in 1994 and began taking lessons from Atlanta Symphony Orchestra violinist, Juan Ramirez. He was an ASYO member throughout high school until graduating in 1999. He went on to study at the University of North Texas and graduated with a Bachelors in Music Performance and played with professional symphonies in Texas including the Abilene Philharmonic, Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra (Plano), and others. Mr. Galarraga has served as the Orchestra Director at Greater Atlanta Christian School since 2014.
What advice do you have for school orchestra teachers who are just starting out?
Make it fun and exciting but more importantly, be clear with your expectations regarding classroom management. Develop procedures and culture, and above all, be consistent!
As a professional violinist, do you think it's important to perform as an educator?
Absolutely! Even though directing a music program is already very demanding and time consuming, I think all directors should make the extra effort to perform from time to time. I feel like performing our instruments for an audience helps us remember why we because music educators, it sort of takes us back to where our love of music began.
What are some fun things that teachers can do in warm ups with their students?
Can’t go wrong with the classic “echo game”. With this warm up, students have the opportunity to exercise matching with the director on pitch, rhythms patterns, and articulations.
If someone is like you, and loves to play but also loves to teach, do you have any pointers on balancing both? Balancing teaching and performing can be difficult, and when you add family to the equation it can almost feel impossible to accomplish. Although difficult to manage, it is totally possible. For me it has been a “game” of prioritizing what is important and organizing your calendar. Also, look for local performing opportunities.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering teaching at a private school? Parents provide an amazing support system…use them! As the only director of orchestras at my school, teaching 5th-12th grade can be a lot at times. However, in my experience, the culture in a private school welcomes parents who are more than willing to step up and provide support whenever help is needed.
What is something that would surprise people about teaching at a private school?
The high level of musicianship and passion of your music students. These kids never cease to amazing me. Year after year I continue to be impressed with the number of students and the high level of musicianship that can be found in such a small community.
What is your favorite middle school orchestra piece to program?
Spartacus by Brian Balmages.
Who inspired you to become an orchestra teacher?
I'd have to say my high school director, Wells Woodward. His love and passion for music was so contagious and he taught us to be a team and a music family. Also, my good friend Justin Owen-Head. He’s been teaching middle school orchestra in Cobb county for many years. His knowledge and experience have inspired me to continue to grow and to become a stronger and more well-rounded director for my students by thinking outside the box and trying new things.
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