Sue Chrzanowski

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Head of the Music Department
Faculty member since 1998
B.A. Hartt School of Music

What drew you to Loomis?

At the time, I was looking for a music job where I could specialize in choral and vocal music as well as teach advanced level music classes. I sought a school which places a strong importance on the arts and on developing the person as a whole. I especially enjoy teaching at Loomis Chaffee because music is valued, important, and accessible to everyone.

Why is music an important discipline?

Basic needs and skills are the ability to express oneself, take care of oneself, and communicate, but music is necessary for life. In many cultures, there is not a word for musician because everyone is considered one to some degree. Whether our students decide to continue to study music seriously, participate actively with meaning or just listen—music is something that feeds the mind, body, and soul.

How did you become involved in music?

My family members are not professional musicians but music was and is still a large part of our lives. My dad used to take his guitar out on a rainy day and we'd sing and my mom was an elementary school teacher who incorporated music into her day-to-day—we were her guinea pigs for new songs, dances, and games. I began piano lessons at age 6 and continued playing until college, took voice lessons my senior year of high school—I was a member of the ‘select’ choir all four years and participated in Regionals and All-State music festivals, and my dad and I joined the church music group and I eventually became the director. I was fortunate that my parents were fully supportive of all of my vocal and musical endeavors.

How has music influenced your life?

When it came to choosing a career, it was easy for me. I love music and I love helping others on their journey to create musical experiences. While I enjoyed performing myself (and still do), I found greater joy and more "food for my soul" in leading and nurturing others in their musical experiences, explaining my career as a vocal teacher and choral director. I met my husband, who is also a music teacher, while singing in a preshow for Shakespeare in the Park. We find solace, inspiration, and a certain drive to learn and grow from the music we produce, teach, and learn from our students and those around us.