Kristen V.

Kristen is a dedicated music educator with over 25 years of experience in teaching and fostering a love for music in students of all ages. A trombone major who studied under Don Harwood of the New York Philharmonic, Kristen’s musical journey is complemented by a Bachelor of Music from The College of New Jersey and a Master of Music Education from Capital University. She also holds a diploma from the Kodály Institute of the Liszt Academy of Music in Hungary, where she had the privilege of studying piano with Orsolya Szabo. 

Specializing in aural skills and musicianship, Kristen infuses her music lessons with innovative approaches that enhance students' understanding and appreciation of music. Her passion for pop songwriting and composition inspires both children and adults alike to express themselves creatively through music. In addition to her formal teaching, Kristen enjoys folk music and plays both the Appalachian dulcimer and autoharp, which she often incorporates into her lessons.

For the past seven years, Kristen has lived in Madagascar, where she taught music to K-12 students at the American School of Antananarivo. Her commitment to education culminated in a role as the K-12 Principal of the school, where she continued to inspire both students and faculty.

In her free time, Kristen enjoys exploring the outdoors and hiking with her three dogs, Caesar, Remington, and Daphne. Passionate about both music and nature, Kristen strives to create a harmonious balance between her professional and personal life.

Kristen returned to the US this spring and is happy to join the team at HAA in her hometown of Flemington, NJ!