Dear Beginning Orchestra Parents and Students,

I am so excited for your child to begin the orchestra journey with me! 

My name is Mrs. Feuerborn (pronounced “fair-born”) and since 2015, I have been the 5th Grade Elementary Orchestra teacher in District 41.  I have taught orchestra students since 1995 – it’s been such an amazing journey!

My path in music started from a very early age.

Every night before bedtime, my mom would sing songs, tell stories about her childhood, and read to me. My dad would sing in the church choir. Every evening while washing the dishes, he would belt-out a bass line tune – the same bass line tune – in his deepest opera-like voice. I can still hear him singing in my mind! My mom and dad have always surrounded themselves and their children with music!

When I was 6 years-old, I was chosen to play “Gretel” in The Sound of Music at a local high school.

My fondest memory of that musical was running onto the stage during the thunderstorm scene, jumping on the bed, and having the bed roll across half of the stage! The audience loved it and burst into laughter – and so did I, from embarrassment! Soon after that musical was done, my oldest brother moved back home from college and brought his new guitar home. I couldn’t resist and started teaching myself the guitar with John Denver’s hits. Take Me Home, Country Roads was my favorite tune! By then I also could play a little “Boston” on the organ! 

At the age of 9, my mom asked me if I wanted to play the violin.

(Yes, that is a picture of me at the top of this page - in beginning orchestra!)

With wide eyes I said, “Sure!" and the next thing I knew she took out a violin from the car trunk and handed it to me - the rest is history! After participating in the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra and enjoying math classes immensely during high school, I continued on to college and received my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Violin Performance from DePaul University, my certification in Music Education, and some Suzuki-training. My performing career has included being a freelance musician for weddings, member of the Rockford Symphony Orchestra, and electric violinist for a Chicago jazz-rock band. I have performed 9 concerts with a hip-hop rap artist, including his show at Lollapalooza in front of an audience of 60,000 people, as well as the Moody Blues, Dada, and other bands.

I began teaching 30 years ago and have loved every minute.

My career as an orchestra teacher has encompassed many and various professional accomplishments. 

My love of children and their “light-bulb” moments are the top two reasons why I love teaching.

It truly amazes me what children are able to achieve when challenged to do their best. I have enjoyed watching our own children do awesome things, both in music and in their other interests and activities. I can’t wait to experience new adventures with my students this year. The sequencing of musical skills will guide my students through an engaging district and national string curriculum. I am looking forward to collaborating with students and celebrating their successes!

If at any time you have a question, please feel free to contact me at rfeuerborn@d41.org

Thank you for choosing to participate in the orchestra program in Glen Ellyn District 41. Orchestra Rocks!!!

With Warm Regards, Mrs. Feuerborn