An Inspiring Journey through Music, Education, and Global Impact
In the ever-changing landscape of life, there are people whose music transcends boundaries, creating harmonies that resonate across the world. Emily Good-Perkins is a prominent figure in music education, research, and performance, standing as a conductor and leading a symphony of achievements that reach far beyond traditional confines. Recently awarded the Outstanding Leadership Award in Education and Business, Emily’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of music on a global level.
Emily’s journey in the world of music education began as an instructor of voice at Marian University, where she first discovered the potential of music to bridge cultural gaps. This realization became the cornerstone of her mission: to make music education a universal language accessible to individuals across diverse backgrounds and geographies.
Her impact extends beyond traditional classrooms. As the founder and executive director of Voicing Futures, Emily has led initiatives promoting equity and justice in music education. Through projects that break down socioeconomic barriers, Emily’s work ensures that the benefits of music are not confined to a select few but resonate with all who aspire to experience its transformative power.
Emily’s extensive travels and engagements across the world exemplify her commitment to breaking down cultural barriers. From the bustling streets of Cuba to the serene landscapes of Austria and the vibrant cities of the United Arab Emirates to the traditional settings of Indonesia, Emily’s global footprint as a music educator is awe-inspiring. Her philosophy revolves around embracing the rich and diverse musical cultures, learning from each unique note to create a melody that transcends borders.
Emily’s commitment to social justice is not confined to academic discussions but is a driving force behind her activism. Her role as Director of Educational Programming for Congolese refugees in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi refugee camps exemplifies her belief in the power of music as a catalyst for change. Collaborating with organizations like Grace Vision and the Playing for Change Foundation, Emily is set to embark on a mission to bring music and education to the lives of those affected by displacement and conflict.
As the President of Sigma Alpha Iota, she organized a charity event, Cha Cha for Charity, raising $6000 for an instrument project in Central Africa. These endeavors underscore her belief in music not only as an artistic expression but as a tool for social change.
In February 2024, Emily will travel to the heart of these refugee camps, not merely as an educator but as a beacon of hope, using music to heal and empower. Her commitment to this cause reflects a deep understanding of the potential for music to transcend hardship and create a sense of belonging.
Emily’s academic journey is as impressive as her practical endeavors. Armed with Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and Master of Education (Ed.M.) degrees in music education from Columbia University, Emily has left an indelible mark on the scholarly landscape. Her publications in esteemed journals like the International Journal of Music Education and the Philosophy of Music Education Review showcase her dedication to advancing the discourse on music education.
Her book, “Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies in Music Education,” published by Routledge, proves her commitment to expanding culturally responsive teaching. The recent availability of the paperback edition ensures that her valuable insights are accessible to an even wider audience, fostering a greater understanding of the role music plays in shaping our world.
As a visiting scholar at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music and a facilitator for Boston University’s online graduate music education program, Emily has become a conduit for cultural exchange in the world of music. Her participation in conferences and symposia across the globe speaks to her commitment to shaping the future of music education on an international scale.
From her paper presentations at the Pan African Society for Musical Arts Education (PASMAE) conference to her symposium at the International Society for Music Education Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, Emily has consistently advocated for the inclusion of diverse voices within the music education narrative.
Emily’s commitment to education extends to workshops and guest lectures, where she shares her expertise and experiences with aspiring musicians and educators. From vocal workshops at the American University of Sharjah to solo adjudication at MENC Southwest Regional High School Competition in Tucson, Emily’s impact reverberates through the halls of academia and beyond.
Beyond her roles in academia and activism, Emily has made significant contributions to the world of performance. Her directorial and music director roles in various productions, from operatic performances to musical theater productions, showcase her versatility and passion for bringing music to life on the stage.
As a soloist, Emily’s performances have graced prestigious venues, including the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, where she delivered a captivating rendition of Beethoven’s Chorale Fantasy. She performs a range of music genres, from classical masterpieces like Schubert’s Laudate Dominium, to contemporary works that reflect the global diversity she champions.
Emily’s advocacy extends beyond her published works and performances. Her paper presentations at conferences like the Research in Music Education (RIME) conference and the Asia-Pacific Symposium for Music Education Research (APSMER) conference delve into the intricacies of culturally relevant pedagogy. Whether discussing the perceptions of Arab students in the United Arab Emirates or challenging traditional exclusionary practices in music education, Emily is a trailblazer in campaigning for cultural relevance and diversity within the field.
On a personal level, Emily’s performances, whether as a soloist or as part of a choir, showcase her vocal prowess and commitment to musical excellence. From her doctoral recital showcasing Mozart’s Exultate Jubilate to her mesmerizing performance at the Rome Festival Opera, Emily’s musical journey weaves together a series of achievements, with each performance contributing a new layer to her rich legacy.
As Emily Good-Perkins continues to navigate the global landscape of music education, her story emerges as a symphony of inspiration. From the classrooms of Marian University to the refugee camps in Africa, Emily’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and cultural understanding through music has touched lives on a global scale. Her Outstanding Leadership Award is not just a recognition of past achievements but a prelude to the impactful notes she has yet to compose in the world of music and education.
In the grand crescendo of her life’s work, Emily Good-Perkins stands as a guiding light, reminding us all that in the harmonious language of music, there lies the potential to create a world that embraces diversity and celebrates unity.