Ms. Fausel fell in love with the violin as a child. Although trained in the Suzuki method during the summer program at Ithaca, with Carrie Reuning Hummel and Edward Kreitman, Ms. Fausel would not be a musician without the efforts of the teachers who taught orchestra in the public schools. She is deeply aware that public schools are a primary source of exposure, support and learning for students enrolled in instrumental music, and believes that music should be shared with all who are interested to learn. 

Ms. Fausel has been teaching orchestra in the public schools for over 20 years. While all students who want to play are welcome in her classroom, she has also seen her most motivated students participate in CMEA Regionals and All State, and also at the NAfME All Eastern and All National Orchestra Festivals. Her students who have graduated from high school have gone on to be members of thriving communities, and some are now doctors, lawyers, engineers, veterinarians, physical therapists, artists, parents, and professional musicians. When she performs on stage, many of the musicians she plays with are employed in a variety of jobs, and still carry on making music throughout their lives.

Her experience working with students at the elementary, middle and high school levels offers the perspective to understand that excellent teachers are needed throughout a district. A strong beginning creates a foundation upon which learning can grow. She believes that music is meant to be shared, whether playing together in a classroom, at home, on a stage or even by listening to others. Music is elemental to the human experience, it is a link that can be shared between all peoples, and can be found wherever there is community.

Ms. Fausel recently moved to Simsbury with her husband, her son, and two dogs. On a day off, she enjoys reading books, a walk in the woods, a day at the beach, or finding treasures in museums and flea markets.

Bachelor of Applied Music, University of Connecticut    

Master of Music Education, Performance Emphasis, University of Hartford, The Hartt School

Section First Violin, Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra

CT-ASTA, Past President, former board member 

Violin teachers include: Mickey Reisman, Peter Sacco, Theodore Arm, Stephan Teiszen, Stephen Wood.

Simsbury High School Orchestras include:

Concert Orchestra

Chamber Orchestra

If you play a stringed instrument, come join us! Both classes meet four days a week, during the school day.

Both classes offer opportunities to audition for Festivals, join TRI-M, volunteer, and to earn Honors Points.

Students who are interested in the extra challenge of playing with the SHS Chamber Orchestra must audition. Audition submissions are due on or before February 27, 2023. 

The deadline is not flexible.