Our teachers are the link from WeJoySing to your children. Their caring style is what allows WeJoySing to succeed.
Take the opportunity now to get to know our teachers better.
Jo Kirk, Director
Jo Kirk nationally known educator and expert in Kodály based early childhood music education and methodology, holds a Masters in Music Education from the University of Akron and a Kodály Music Education Certificate from Silver Lake College.She has completed early
childhood studies at the Hartt School of Music and the Westminster Choir College.
Her teaching experience spans from “little ones” to Kodály graduate level adults at Nebraska Wesleyan University, Colorado State University, Wichita State University, and California State University Long Beach. As an adjunct faculty member of Muskingum College, Mrs. Kirk instructed the elementary music education courses, directed the Muskingum College Children’s Choir, and developed and instructed the Kodály-based early childhood music and movement enrichment program.
Currently, Kirk serves on the Community Music School faculty at Capital University, provides the early music education training for the Columbus Montessori Teacher Education Program, and is founder, President and CEO of WeJoySing, Inc. studio’s “Language of Love” – prenatal program, “Heart Strings”- a parent and early childhood music and movement education program, “Music & Me” – a music literacy program based on the Kodály methodology for older children, and individualized Music Therapy programs. She maintains an active conference and public speaking schedule, has published: “A Kodály Approach,” Spotlight on Early Childhood Music Education: Selected Articles from State MEA Journals, published by The National Association for Music Education, 2000, and has authored Lullabies to Circle Games-An Early Childhood Music and Movement Curriculum.
Columbus
Tiffany Dulmage is a Board-Certified music therapist with a Master of Music in clarinet performance from Indiana University and a Bachelor of Music in music therapy and music performance from Baldwin-Wallace College in Berea, Ohio. Tiffany grew up with her twin sister and younger brother surrounded by music at an early age. She started learning piano from her mom and singing in the youth choir at Capital University. Later, she adopted clarinet as her primary instrument and chose it as her major in college. While focusing on both clarinet and music therapy, Tiffany has also had training in guitar and voice.
Since finishing school, Tiffany continues to focus on clarinet and music therapy. She teaches private clarinet lessons and is always looking for opportunities to perform. Outside of music her hobbies include playing with her nephew Jason, and her toy poodle, Olivia. Tiffany is thrilled to be with WeJoySing and looks forward to each and every Hearstrings class and music therapy session.
Cathy Hahn holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Otterbein College. She has experience as a preschool teacher and has taught music to kindergartners in a private school in Jerusalem, Israel, as well as directing children’s choirs in Nashville, TN, Centreville, VA, and Erie, PA. Cathy lives in Hilliard with her husband Peter, and their children Anna, Ben, Paul and Mark, where she also serves as the director of children’s choirs for Hilliard United Methodist Church.
“Mrs. Cathy” has been teaching for WeJoySing since 1996 and believes that children should be encouraged to “make a joyful noise” and express themselves through music. “WeJoySing helps children develop so many skills through music and play. I feel privileged to be a part of that process. Especially now that my own children are all teenagers and beyond, I cherish the opportunity to play with the little ones and watch them discover the magic of music!”
Lynnette Kline has been with WeJoySing since August, 1995. She holds a degree from Otterbein College and her Kodaly Level One certificate from Nebraska Wesleyan University. Lynnette also conducts three children’s choirs at Reynoldsburg united Methodist Church where she helps lead praise and worship services. In 1999, she received the “Towel and Basin” award for outstanding servant ministry to children by the Columbus South District United Methodist Church. During the summer months, Lynnette teaches music and movement to children at the Homeless Families Foundation.
“Mrs. Lynnette” feels music is a “gift” we can give to children of all ages. She loves helping them learn to express their feelings through music and the tugs of their own “Heart Strings.”
Debbie Liffick, mother of two, has pursued early childhood education studies at Ohio Dominican College. As a day care provider, preschool teacher, music educator and early intervention supporter, Mrs. Debbie has spent most of her life nurturing young children and sharing her love of music with them. Debbie coordinates a Contemporary Ensemble and provides the early childhood and elementary Liturgical music for the St. Pius X church.
“Music has filled every part of my life. I am looking forward to sharing the joy of music with you and your children.”
Beth Marshall is delighted to rejoin the WeJoySing staff after a two year absence while her husband’s job was located in Baltimore, Maryland. Beth brings a love of music and children to her teaching. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio. As a preschool and elementary school teacher, music was a powerful learning tool in her classrooms. Music has been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. She has had training in voice and piano, and has been active in many musical groups. After the birth of her first child, Beth became a full-time mom and started bringing her daughter, Amy, to WeJoySing. Amy has now “graduated” from WeJoySing, but has continued to enjoy participating in musical opportunities including musical theater and children’s choirs. Amy has since been joined by Rylee and Matthew, and both children are part of the Heartstrings and Music and Me programs. After being a parent in WeJoySing for so long, Beth is excited to be a part of the WeJoySing staff. Beth states, “I have seen firsthand the powerful affect music has in children’s learning and development, in my students and my own children. I am excited to share the joy of music and learning with you and your child as we grow and learn together!”
Andrea Rosendaul is a Board Certified Music Therapist and graduate of Baldwin Wallace College in Berea, Ohio. Andrea grew up making music with her family, whether performing in church and talent shows or gathered around the family piano, music is still an enjoyable gift that we share together. She has had training in voice, piano, and guitar and greatly enjoys leading worship at Christ Fellowship Church each week. Mrs. Andrea has experience working with young and old alike as an Activity Leader in a long term care facility and also as teacher at Gymboree Play and Music. Mrs. Andrea looks forward to providing music therapy services and teaching your children as a Heartstrings teacher.
“Music can greatly benefit children as they develop cognitively, socially, physically, and emotionally. I am blessed to be able to share the power of music with your family!”
Krista Salvati is a graduate of Baldwin-Wallace College in Cleveland, Ohio, and has loved music as long as she can remember. She has had training in voice and piano, and has also been active in musical theatre. “Mrs. Krista” originally came to the program as a parent with her then 16 month old son Nickolas. She enjoyed sharing the Heart Strings class with him so much that she was inspired to become an instructor. Nickolas has since been joined by brothers Christian and Zackary.
“Music opens up a whole new world of fun and learning for children, and also gives parents an added opportunity to bond and communicate with their child. I look forward to sharing the gift of song with your family.”
Kelly Smith-Armstrong brings a great love of music, children, and drama to her teaching. She earned her B.A. in Communications from The Ohio State University, and has extensive training in voice and drama. She has held several professional and acting roles over the years, but her favorite role has been as full-time mom to her two cherished children, Rachel and Ryan. She and her husband Chuck live in Grove City, which is where Mrs. Kelly became involved with the wonderful world of WeJoySing in 1999. “When I started WJS with my daughter when she was 6 months old, I was excited to find a program where my child could develop in all areas – cognitively, musically, physically, socially – and in a joyful and playful environment. I was so thrilled to start teaching in 2000, and truly understand the benefits behind it, as well as witnessing the results in my own children.” Mrs. Kelly is excited to help you do some of the most wonderful things: nurture a joyful bond within your family, build confidence within your child, and foster learning and development through music.
Deb Sutherland has possessed a passion for singing, dancing, and playing instruments her entire life. She began singing in her church choir and spent numerous summers in her hometown (Kent, Ohio) teaching young children to sing. Starting in the fifth grade and continuing through college, Deb received formal vocal, piano, guitar, trumpet, and competitive dance training.
Attending the University of Dayton, Deb earned a degree in Music Therapy with a minor in Psychology. After graduating, Deb used Music Therapy techniques while working with the elderly and witnessed time and again the power that music possesses.
In January of 2007, Deb gave birth to her daughter, Ava Rose, and became a full-time mom. She has continued to share her love for music and dance with children, as a part-time voice and dance instructor at a local church.
Northeast Ohio
Julie McFeaters brings with her a great affection for children and passion for music. She holds a degree in Psychology from Grove City College, and she has received training in voice, piano, music theory, and flute. After spending ten years as a preschool teacher and director, she became a full-time mother of five. Music has always been an important part of her life, and she has participated in many singing groups and musicals. Mrs. Julie enjoys volunteering at her children’s school and is active in Children’s Ministries at her church. She lives in North Canton with her husband, Ed, and their children, Kate, Abby, Nathan, Aaron, and Jacob. She states, “I have always known that singing with little ones is lots of fun. Now that I have studied its proven benefits, I am excited to share this program with you and your child.”
Donna J. Noble helped establish WeJoySing in the Canton-Akron area in the fall of 2000. After eleven years of teaching and coaching speech and drama in the public schools, she traded in “Mrs. Noble” and became “Mrs. Donna”. She explains, “I loved teaching high school, but when God blessed me with my own children, I discovered just how much I enjoy spending time with little ones!” Donna earned her bachelor’s degree and teaching certification in English and Comprehensive Communications, from Mount Union College in 1989. Mrs. Donna wears many hats. though her mommy cap is her favorite. She enjoys time spent as a free-lance writer, speaker, dramatist, worship leader, and farmer. Mrs. Donna lives in Hartville, Ohio, with her husband, Darrin, and their two children, Dakota and Dakayla, along with a few goats, bunnies, cats, and one horse. They enjoy sharing their home with others and singing together with the CrossWise Christian Band.
Mrs. Donna is available to give demonstrations and to address parenting groups, teachers, and preschools. Call 1-877-299-8138 to schedule a visit.
Lincoln, NE
Stephanie Benischek has been a singer all her life. Her happiest memories revolve around music making. Now as a mother of three children, Christian, Gabriel and Samantha she realizes how important it is to surround the people she loves with the things she loves – especially music! Mrs. Steph received her Bachelor of Music Education degree and Kodaly certification from Nebraska Wesleyan University. She is in the process of getting a masters degree through UNL. Mrs. Steph currently teaches general music at Maxey Elementary for Lincoln Public Schools. She also enjoys singing with Soli Deo Gloria Cantorum, Lincoln Civic Choir, Omaha Chamber Singers, and being a worship leader at church. “What I love about music is that it has the power to connect and communicate with everyone. I am thrilled to be an instructor for We Joy Sing because I have the incredible opportunity to teach parents and children, through music, ways to enrich their lives and make their family bond stronger. I can’t wait to share my love of music with you and your family.”
