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Sarah's love of music has shaped her life from the beginning.

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From her beginnings as a young piano student right here in York Maine, to a band-loving teenager in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and eventually a professional oboist and music educator in Northern Virginia, Sarah has a diverse array of experiences that make her a passionate teacher.  With bachelor’s and master’s degrees of music (oboe) from the University of Michigan and additional certificates in piano pedagogy and early childhood development, she has over 25 years of performing and teaching experience.  Sarah loves to study how people learn and is devoted to tailoring her communication and teaching style to guide each learner towards the goal of having music as a lifelong companion.

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As an oboist residing in Northern VA, Sarah performed regularly with ensembles such as the Maryland Symphony, the Annapolis Symphony, the National Gallery Orchestra, the Virginia Chamber Orchestra, and the Washington Bach Consort, among countless others.  She participated in several recording projects, including a collection of Florian Gassman’s opera overtures with the acclaimed Eclipse Chamber Orchestra which is featured regularly on WETA-FM.  Reviews in the Washington Post praised her for “playing sublimely”.

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As a teacher, Sarah spent many years teaching music and movement classes to preschoolers in addition to maintaining her private studio of oboe and piano students.  Her classes employed the Music Rhapsody program, an Orff-based curriculum that recognizes the creative input of every child. These experiences helped shape her playful teaching style with her private students as well, as Sarah strives to make every learning experience fun and memorable. 

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​Newly returned to York Maine, Sarah's students enjoy her creative approaches to music learning.  She regularly incorporates percussion instruments, games, and activities designed to stimulate creativity and encourage students to learn the elements of music naturally, through play.  Students certainly don't mind her obsession with puppets and stickers either!

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​​Together with her husband, a professional tuba player, she continues to parent two adult children. When she's not teaching, Sarah loves to ski, sail, play games with her family, and take walks with her dog, Finley.

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Jenn G

"Our daughter simply adores Mrs. Quade.  Her time spent within Mrs. Quade's music class is her favorite part of preschool.  The students are captivated by Mrs. Quade's musical presence from the moment they enter her classroom, instantly becoming eager to engage and participate.  She teaches through example, actively participating with her students which in turn leads her students to actively participate.  Her excitement and energy are palpable, building her students' confidence in their own musical abilities.

The atmosphere within her classroom is fun and playful yet purposeful.  She is exceptionably knowledgeable of musical instruments, incorporating various instruments into each lesson.  She ignites a passion in each of her students to build a foundation for learning and loving music."

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