ABOUT THE PROGRAM

WORLD-CLASS COMPOSER AND CELEBRATED MUSIC EDUCATOR ZOLTÁN KODÁLY WROTE:

“Let us take our children seriously! Everything else follows from this…only the best is good enough for a child.”

 

 

At the Artful Musician, we focus on the best of the best music.

Authentic folksong, children’s singing games, and masterworks are the basis for high-quality music instruction.

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Our Mission
The Artful Musician singing-based music school inspires
participants of all ages to gain confidence in their musical
ability and encourages family music activities in the home.
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What can I expect? At The Artful Musician, each class is carefully designed based on age-appropriate sequential materials which will aid in the development of musical skills. Skill development should be a joy filled experience, where real progress is seen, confidence grows, and pride in personal accomplishment is felt. 

Voice as the fundamental instrument: As every person is born with a voice, singing is the main instrument used in each class. However, that is only the beginning. Foundational music skills learned through in-tune singing can then be broadened and used in any aspect of music including but not limited to instrumental and folk music. 

Small class sizes: In order to have maximum learning time with the instructor, class sizes are limited and will fill on a first-come-first-served basis. If a class is full, you may sign up for the waiting list and we will contact you when a space becomes available.


INSTRUCTOR

REBECCA MCLAUGHLIN

Hi, I’m Rebecca McLaughlin! My passion for music education began in childhood, where music was a daily source of joy. I had a musician’s heart, and much to their dismay, nothing my siblings did could stop me from singing with gusto. I threw myself into every musical opportunity I could find. But despite performing in advanced music groups as a teenager, one thing held me back—music notation. Reading it felt difficult and frustrating, and I often thought, “Surely this should be easier!”

That thought sparked a lifelong quest to make music notation accessible and frustration-free for every learner.

While studying music education in college, I was introduced to the Kodály music philosophy, which uses folk songs, singing games, and art music to teach children to read and write music step by step. This approach spoke to my heart. Now, with over 30 years of teaching experience, I’ve seen hundreds of children become fluent, confident musicians who understand music deeply—while having a blast doing it.

I believe learning music doesn’t have to be hard. In fact, it can be incredibly fun when taught in a way that builds skills progressively and playfully.

As a mother of four energetic boys (now almost grown), I understand children’s need for movement, encouragement, and meaningful engagement. I strive to create a positive, supportive environment where students feel confident and capable, no matter their age or experience level.

One of my greatest joys is working with adults who doubt their own musical abilities. I love helping them discover their voice and watching the delight and surprise as they realize what they can do with the right tools.

I warmly invite you to explore our classes and discover the joy of music for yourself. I look forward to working with all our current and future students—come join the fun!

 


ACCOMPLISHMENTS

  • Current program director for BYU InterMuse Academy for Kodály Certification
  • Member of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square for 10 years. 
  • BM in Elementary Music Education from Brigham Young University
  • Receiving her National Kodály certification through the Organization of American Kodály Educators (OAKE)
  • Past president of BYUFOLKS and UFOLKS chapters of OAKE
  • 23 years as a private and public school music specialist including the position of district-wide instructional coach for elementary music specialists. 
  • She sent 25 students to the OAKE National Children’s Choirs
  • Has organized and facilitated 20+ annual choral festivals involving between 100–650 singers. 
  • Directed multiple children’s and adult choirs (both at school and church) for most of her adult life
  • Her most prized accomplishment is being a wife to a wonderful supporting husband and a mom to four awesome sons. Family is everything!
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