Grace Pothen

Grace is a student at West Chester University majoring in Music Education with a concentration in violin. She first began playing violin, flute, and saxophone in her younger years in the Upper Darby School District where she performed in the honors band, jazz band, orchestra, and the annual Upper Darby Gala. Grace's experience includes Downingtown West concert band, jazz band, marching band, pit orchestra, STEM concert orchestra, chamber ensemble, and Chester County Youth Orchestra. She has qualified for both Pennsylvania Music Education Association's district band and district orchestra, and this past year has been first in the district, first in the region, and the first baritone saxophone player in the Downingtown Area School District to qualify at the all-state level. Grace also sings for her church choir where she leads the youth group in musical events such as competitive group song, the Ecumenical Fellowship of Indian Churches in Philadelphia choreography and choir, and the church's annual Christmas and Easter skits. Grace is also a member of the adult choir (St. John's Indian Orthodox Church, Drexel Hill.) Grace is completely aware of the advanced eye-catching techniques that can make violin so appealing, however, she is not quick to forget the basics and consistent practice over time that can help beginner students reach their full potential. Grace's experience from her involvement with different ensembles has helped her fine tune and understand how to make students feel more comfortable in their new journey as musicians. Grace plans on receiving her higher education in musical studies and is excited to experience teaching at different levels.