Kayley Wartman

Teaching the Next Generation of Musicians

When her friend was given the chance at an experiential learning experience, Kayley Wartman knew she wanted to apply to the B.E.S.T. Project Fund. “I thought it was amazing that she was going to have this chance for experiential learning and I knew I had to wait for the right project before applying.” When the application opened for this year’s fund, she seized the moment.

The 21-year-old Nova Scotian is a passionate School of Education student with the goal of becoming a music teacher and a specialist in teacher training. “I want to work with professionals to better their work and help both students and teachers improve in the classroom with the use of different ideas and methods.” Kayley’s love of music pedagogy lead her to secure a spot at the Kodaly Institute’s Summer School. She will be traveling to Kecskemet, Hungary, for two weeks to study with professionals from across the world. “The summer school is an internationally renowned music pedagogy program. Every day, there is focus on musicianship and how to use our own skills, culture, and knowledge as teachers to help provide the best possible education for our students. The specific method we will be learning to apply to our classrooms is the work of the late ethnomusicologist, Zoltan Kodaly, a method that has become a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.”

Initially, the Education student was nervous to apply, but then decided to go forward with the application. “I was scared initially, thinking I wasn’t the right candidate, but I was convinced after talking to past award recipients that I can do it.” Participating in the Kodaly Institute’s program will allow Kayley to reflect on her learning and teaching methods. “I hope to become a stronger musician and teacher, but also I hope I am able to learn more about the type of student I am so that I can apply it to my own teaching.”

Having the support of Bishop’s University means the world to the future teacher. She feels privileged to be given such an opportunity. “I feel so incredibly lucky to be able to do this program and develop my skills, experience another country, and really see the beauty of another country’s approach to music education. It is reaffirming that Bishop’s University believes I can make a difference and is willing to invest in me to do exactly that.” She is looking forward to sharing her experiences with her colleagues. “I am hoping to participate in classes as a guest lecturer or contribute while we discuss educational methods in the School of Education or contribute to a few Music History classes on Kodaly.”

Kayley encourages future students to apply for the B.E.S.T. Project Fund, even if they are hesitant. “You’ll never be able to experience what you want if you never try – it’s well worth your time and you owe it to yourself. It took me time to convince myself I could, but I can and so can you.”