Ashley

Ashley

Teacher

Raised in a family that was enriched with musicians and teachers, I was greatly influenced by these components at a young age and was able to quickly discover what my passion and purpose would soon become. Thankfully, my career as a teacher presented that opportunity in being able to fuse both music and teaching together. As a professional singer of 25+ years, I find music as a gateway to building connections with not only children but communities as a whole.

Music not only strengthens self confidence but provides a solid foundation for which one is able  to express themselves artistically while encouraging the creativity of the mind. Throughout grade school, I often found myself volunteering at my Aunts preschool during my summer breaks and would closely study the way she engaged with the children; the songs she would sing and the strategies in which she used to capture their attention. It was truly a magical experience to see the children’s faces light up the moment she entered the room, and I knew that I wanted to experience that!

After spending 10+ years in the beauty industry as a hairstylist, I decided that I wanted to make a bigger difference in my community and became an instructor and advocate for young adults with disabilities for a day program in Lafayette CA. However, my love for children was undeniable and that led me to teaching at different daycares and preschools surrounding the East Bay for the last 7 years.

Finding the right use and fit for my professional passion eventually led me to Berkeley Little School where I enjoy teaching rhythm, pitch, tones and the basic fundamentals of music. I integrate these concepts into the classroom through singing, ukulele, and dance. Working here has allowed me to combine my talents so that I am able to inspire children with that same confidence, self expression and creativity that also inspired me at a young age.