Bio

“Music is your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom. If you don’t live it, it won’t come out of your horn.” ~Charlie Parker

Music has been my light to the greater world around me. I have experienced and witnessed many of the joys participation in music can offer. Before I began to really study music, I felt lost and unaware. Through music, I gained confidence, discipline, better grades in school, great friends, and experiences I would have otherwise been excluded from (like traveling). Although my parents couldn’t carry a tune, they surrounded themselves with people who could; including parading me, their daughter, around for others to enjoy my gift of song. I sang throughout elementary school and soon developed an interest in flute, musical theatre, band, opera, and many others. Long have I enjoyed helping others, especially youths. As a Recreational Leader, I guided students through engaging & creative activities which only furthered my interest in becoming a teacher.

When you put my two loves together (teaching and music), you get a wonderful school filled with enthusiastic individuals and an uplifting music program to help them sing that song in their hearts. I have been privileged to teach and share music with over 350 students each week between CHIME Elementary and Middle School since 2006. I received my Teaching Credential as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from California State University, Northridge. Since then the music program has integrated itself into CHIME’s curriculum providing general music, violin, choir, guitar, and band, as well as collaborative concerts.

It is my vision to provide all children with a fun, safe, and rewarding environment in which to explore the many facets of music. The growing success of CHIME’s music program is evident by continued support and participation from staff, parents, and students. Together we are furthering the aims of CHIME to provide enriching experiences for all students in a safe and meaningful way.

~Kelly O’Brien
CHIME Music Teacher
kelly.obrien@chimeinstitute.org