ABOUT MRS. HAAG

My name is Joanna Haag. Some people might know me by my former name: Miss Lajewski. However, on March 26th, 2022, I got married to Mr. Joseph Haag and now I am a Mrs. But, do not worry. I will always respond to "Miss La". So, please feel free to call me either Mrs. Haag or Miss La. This is my 19th year teaching music. Oh, how the time flies, but, the music keeps going on!   I began singing at the age of 2. Throughout school I was involved in chorus and band as well as theatre. I started playing the alto saxophone in the 4th grade while taking piano lessons. I attended Western Maryland College (which is now McDaniel College) in Westminster, Maryland earning a Bachelor's Degree in the Arts, with a concentration in voice and music history. Later I attended Immaculata University in Malvern, Pennsylvania and earned a Master's Degree in Arts with a concentration in Music Therapy. I am a certified Music Teacher for the state of New Jersey as well as a Nationally Board Certified Music Therapist. Prior to teaching, I worked as a Music Therapist in nursing homes rehabilitating residents who have been diagnosed with traumatic life changes, including strokes and dementia. I also worked in a school for children on the autism spectrum, using music as a form of communication. I performed in regional community theatre for many years. I was also the lead singer in a cover band for ten years where we played all types of venues and all genres of music. At the moment, I am humbled to serve as a cantor for my church and I am a private piano and vocal coach. Music has opened many doors for me and brought me a sense of joy and peace. Personally, I am a Giants and Mets fan, walking on the beach, and I LOVE the movie "The Wizard of Oz".

Here at Woodbridge, I am the Gifted and Talented Vocal and Instrumental Music Teacher for grades 3-8. We study music theory, history, performance, and other elements associated with learning the ins and outs of music. In the past, we have studied the history of music in the movies, music from different decades, and music associated with folk and fairy tales. The students also have had opportunities to perform on a solo basis at such venues as The Veteran's Home, the G&T Art Show and a Coffee House night. We have also had guest speakers who are in the music field come and share their performing and studying experiences with us. The students also enjoyed the trips we have taken to The State Theatre in New Brunswick to see "The Nutcracker" and NJPAC for a performance of a celebration of the Chinese New Year.

I love both music and learning!   One of the greatest joys as a music teacher is watching my students become musicians in their own right. Then they can experience the joy of music making for themselves. Music education is vital to a well rounded learning experience. I truly believe in music and the potential that it unlocks in many facets of our lives.

Please feel free to contact me if you need anything.  My classroom (or Google Classroom) is always open, so please stop in and join in the fun of music making!  

Smiles and Music,

Mrs. Joanna Haag

(Miss La)

"Why do musicians give so much time to charitable causes? The most humanitarian cause that we can give our time to is the creation and performance of music itself."

-Billy Joel