Educator Spotlight: Kathy Morrison

Kathy first caught the “Kindermusik bug” when she brought her oldest daughter to Kindermusik at Piano Central Studios a little over 20 years ago now. That was the beginning of a beautiful friendship with Theresa Case, Owner of Piano Central Studios, but it was also where Kathy fell in love with all that Kindermusik is and can do for a child. Kathy became a Kindermusik educator in the summer of 2000, teaching for Theresa at Piano Central Studios. When her family moved to Pittsburgh in 2004, Kathy established her own Kindermusik studio and has been making an incredible impact in her local community and within the Kindermusik educator community ever since.


TC: What do your Kindermusik kids call you?

KM: Miss Kathy

TC: What are some of your favorite Kindermusik activities?

My favorite Kindermusik chant is also a favorite Kindermusik memory. I love Here’s the Bee Hive because my oldest daughter LOVED LOVED this chant and walked around saying it all the time at 2 years old. We still talk about it!

My favorite Kindermusik song is When I was one (I ate a bun…). My girls used to sing that together at age 1 and 6, and it had my husband and I rolling on the floor! There’s even this adorable video of them singing it…I will have to find that video one day soon.

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead in class?

KM: That’s tough! But I would have to say that these are my 3 favorites: Tants Tants Yidelekh, Kerry’s Ten-Penny Wash from Do-Si-Do, and Mama Paquita – because it is the all-time favorite Kindermusik line dance.

TC: What’s your favorite part of teaching Kindermusik?

KM: My favorite part of teaching Kindermusik is the time on the floor with children and parents where we are creating bonds through music. I am passionate about encouraging parents and helping them learn new things about their child while developing self-confidence in children while developing a passion for music

Kathy Morrison from Mark A. Boyle on Vimeo.

TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?

I spend a lot of time analyzing the lesson to understand how to create a seamless experience that highlights the music. I look at the melody lines and rhythms to see how we might incorporate those into transitions. I’m committed to bringing out the music education component (as well as the child development focus) and speak to it in value statements multiple times. That’s what makes Kindermusik unique and differentiates our program from the competition. I’m also looking for ways to connect parents and children together, keeping in mind that I’m the facilitator not the main attraction.

TC: What’s the most touching thing that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?

KM: There’s really no one thing that stands out. Instead, multiple special moments have turned into a slide reel of precious moments over the years. There’s no “MOST touching” thing – it’s just a story that’s woven together of moments that affirm that this is my life’s best work. I am a Kindermusik teacher because I believe that I can make a difference doing that very thing and mentoring/coaching others to do the same.

TC: Describe a teaching experience or favorite Kindermusik family that has impacted you as a teacher.

KM: I have a hard time coming up with just one experience, but I do know this. When I finally figured out how to let go of trying to control what was happening in class and started focusing on engaging the children in a way that helped them begin to take responsibility for their own learning, then amazing things started happening. Children started engaging in new ways and I started really listening and facilitating differently. The whole experience went to a new level because I let go…It’s not about my plan, it’s about understanding where children are IN THAT MOMENT and creating the experience they need. That means being super prepared so you can flex and create and turn on a dime. It’s the very best kind of teaching we can possibly do. It’s something that we have to practice every time we walk in the room.

Miss Kathy of Kathy’s Music in Pittsburgh
Miss Kathy of Kathy’s Music in Pittsburgh

TC: What do you feel has made your studio business a success?

KM: A commitment to providing a great experience in the classroom with customer service that feels personal. We work hard to stay organized and consistent and we measure, measure, measure.

TC: If you could share some tips with a new Kindermusik educator, what would those be?

KM: Preparation is the key. Be prepared – know the songs and the intent of each activity. Arrive early for class and take time to breathe. When families start walking in the door, stay in the moment. Focus on the music and enjoy the families. The rest will come. Remember it’s a journey that lasts years, not a weekend road trip. J You’ll get there, just take time to enjoy the sights and sounds along the way.

TC: What are some of your hobbies?

KM: I love to read, eat amazing food, and shop with my best friend!

TC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

KM: “The goal is not to perform or to conform, but to engage.“ That’s true for everything we do, whether it’s teaching a class, working with parents, or creating a culture for our business. Engagement is the key. When we engage with our students, with our parents, with our customers, with our staff, with our community, then real dialogue and change is possible. The result? We learn from each other!

TC: What makes Kathy’s Music such a special place?

KM: We LOVE making music with children and parents! It shows…and we nurture that love of music making with creativity and caring for each and every child/parent. We follow the progress of each child, plan for their progression and transition, and partner with parents along the way. I think when you show people you really care about their child and you take time to get to know them that it makes all the difference. In return families are loyal, translating into enjoying the experience and listening when we share information/value.


Are you interested in learning more? Check out a class with Miss Kathy in Pittsburgh…or find one of our other outstanding Educators across the globe! We’ll partner with you to help you child grow in countless ways!

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