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Featured Music Education Alumni


Gail Barnes, School of Music alumna

Gail V. Barnes (PhD, 1998)

Professor of Music Education, University of South Carolina

"After 18 years as a public school teacher, I relished my time at Ohio State. I applied to the PhD program there because of Bob Gillespie (and his expertise in string pedagogy) but learned from all the professors with whom I had contact. I have tried to ensure my students at University of South Carolina have the same rich experience."


Conte family at Alumni Band Day

The Conte Family

"We take great pride in our Ohio State School of Music education. The standard of excellence, and personalized instruction with an award-winning faculty…are what we want for our best music students. The Ohio State School of Music is a step above the rest."

Marni (BME, 1994) and Mike (BME, 1994) Conte, High School Band Directors, Williamsville Central School District, East Amhurst, New York; Nicole (BME, 2020)


Julie Ellis

Julie Ellis (BME)

Worthington City Schools

"When I came to Ohio State as a freshman music major, I had doubts about majoring in music education. However, soon into the first year, I felt encouraged and inspired by my music education and studio professors to pursue the drive I had since I was young — to be an educator. My teachers helped me develop a set of core values that led me to become a strong teacher, musician and leader."


Phil Nagy, alumnus

Phil Nagy (Post-Baccalaureate)

Hilliard City Schools Innovative Learning Center

"I already had a music degree, but wanted to get certified to teach. I really enjoyed my experience at Ohio State, most notably with the faculty. I learned a tremendous amount from these wonderful educators, who taught me not only the craft and skills to be a teacher, but also how my interactions with my students (and peers) outside of the classroom can have a lasting effect that reaches far beyond their time in my program."


Hannah Sterman

Hannah Sterman-Wilson (BME, 2013)

Hilliard Darby High School and Hilliard Heritage Middle School

"The people I met during my time at Ohio State played a vital role in shaping who I am today. Faculty and fellow students alike provided amazing connections and opportunities which helped me as I entered into the professional world and as I establish myself as a music educator. Being a part of OSU gives students access to a wide range of resources while also giving them an individualized experience within the School of Music. I am so grateful for all I learned and was part of at The Ohio State University and within the Music Education program."


Kevin Wallick

Kevin Wallick (BME, 2010)

Dublin Coffman High School Bands

"Ohio State gave me the tools and experiences that I needed to confidently enter into the field of music education. I’m not sure where I would be today if it were not for the guidance I received from the faculty I was blessed to interact with at Ohio State. The connections I was able to make through my education were invaluable to me as a student, and continue to be invaluable to me today as a professional in the field."



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