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Name: Margo Leatham

Position & school(s): Vocal/General music at Chase Elementary Schools, sometimes at KLR and RJK

How long have you been teaching? 4 years

Where did you go to college? What degrees do you hold? I majored in Music at Mount Holyoke College and then went to Boston University for my Masters in Music. I also studied at the University College in Cork Ireland.

Any awards/accomplishments? My master's recital was an accomplishment for myself.

Any claims to fame? I earned several music scholarships over the years, studied under harpist Ann Hobson Pilot amongst others, performed as a harpist with a variety of nonprofessional chamber ensembles, pit orchestras, as well as larger university ensembles under the direction of a number of excellent conductors. I can also wiggle my ears.

What's your favorite part of your job? I love to see students succeed individually and in an ensemble.

Why did you become a music teacher? I want to inspire my students the way my music teachers inspired me and to share musical experiences with children in the primary grades.

Did you do anything else before you became a music teacher? I studied, did office work, worked with toddlers and spent time living abroad.

In your opinion, why do you think music education is important? I think it's important to exercise our musical muscles from an early age, and build skills to give everyone the right to lifelong musicianship.

Who is your favorite musician? I couldn't name just one.

What CD is in your CD player right now? Symphonie Fantastique by Berlioz

What are your hobbies? Hiking, reading, and gardening.

What advice would you offer to an aspiring musician? Believe in yourself and develop a sensitive ear.

Anything else you'd like to add? Sing everything you play and have fun.