About the Director

Ms. Austin's musical journey commenced in Chesterfield County, Virginia, where she delved into a rich tapestry of musical experiences. She showcased her burgeoning talent by wielding the violin in the orchestra, anchoring the jazz band with her bass, and mastering mallet percussion instruments like the xylophone, marimba, and vibraphone in the marching band.

Her passion for music was not only an extracurricular pursuit but also an academic one. Ms. Austin earned her Bachelor of Music degree with honors from Virginia Commonwealth University, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Seeking to deepen her expertise, she pursued additional graduate coursework at Duquesne University, specializing in guitar pedagogy.

Throughout her illustrious career, Ms. Austin has consistently demonstrated her unwavering commitment to music education. She has shared her profound knowledge and infectious enthusiasm with students at various esteemed educational institutions, including Meadowbrook High School, L.C. Bird High School, Matoaca High School, and Falling Creek Middle School. Her students have consistently achieved superior ratings not only at VBODA District 3 Orchestra Assessments but also at VGDA Guitar Assessments and various other local music festivals.

Beyond her role in public school teaching, Ms. Austin operates a part-time viola and violin studio from her home. Simultaneously, she remains actively engaged as a freelance curriculum writer, making substantial contributions to the field of education. Her enduring impact is evident in the numerous former students who have gone on to distinguish themselves as accomplished professionals and respected church musicians.

Ms. Austin's dedication to music education transcends the confines of the classroom. She presented a captivating session on the implementation of chamber music in large ensembles at the 2017 Virginia Music Educators Association conference, sharing innovative approaches with her peers. Furthermore, she co-edited the 2016 VBODA solo & ensemble strings listing update, a testament to her unyielding commitment to enhancing musical opportunities for students. As the VGDA South Central Regional Guitar representative, she continues to be a leading voice in guitar education.

Ms. Austin's outstanding contributions have garnered well-deserved recognition. WTVR featured her in a "Heroes Among Us" segment in 2014, shining a spotlight on her positive impact in the community. That same year, SBO Magazine honored her as one of the influential educators in their 17th annual report, "50 Directors Who Make a Difference." Her leadership and influence extend further as she has frequently taken on the role of conductor for all-county events, solidifying her position as a driving force in the realm of music education.