15. Natalia Romero of @natinotes on Representation of Self and Students in the Choral Experience

Natalia Romero and I connected two years ago on a Facebook post I made asking if anyone was interested in being a part of a social media project that would take place on Instagram. She was the first, and only, person to respond. We began following each other on IG and several months later when I launched ChoirBaton on IG, she was one of the first baton holders! When I envisioned ChoirBaton and the relationships and learning that could take place from its collaborative nature, I envisioned a learning relationship and now friendship like that I have with Natalia. You must know her story. You must hear her passion for her students and educating everyone through equitable music education. You must listen to this interview. Originally from Colombia, Natalia Romero Arbeláez is an experienced performer, educator and musician. As an educator, she thrives in the intersection of contemporary music education and culturally relevant teaching. She is passionate about equity and musical citizenship in her classroom and performing practices.Natalia's strength lies in her ability to connect and engage learners across all settings, although she is particularly fond of teaching teenagers. Natalia works full time as the Choir Director at Harding Senior High School (located in St. Paul, MN) but freelances around the Twin Cities as a soprano and music director with youth theaters.Natalia is an active performer. She can be found singing with the VocalEssence Ensemble Singers, and Border CrosSing, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Choir where she serves as the Treble II Lay Clark.When not singing or teaching (which is rare!) Natalia serves on the Board of Directors for Border CrosSing and the St. Olaf College Teacher Advisory Board.*Please note the podcast mistakenly quotes Natalia's online information* Her correct website and school choir Instagram handle are listed below@natinotes | www.naromero.com @hardingchoirChoir Baton Host: Beth Philemon @bethphilemon | www.bethphilemon.comVisit Choir Baton Online: @choirbaton | www.choirbaton.comChoir Baton Theme Song by Scott HolmesChoir Baton Podcast Producer: Maggie HemedingerMusic by: Scott HolmesFollow @ChoirBaton onInstagram | TikTok | YouTube | FacebookVisit ChoirBaton.comFollow @BethPhilemon onInstagram | TikTok | YouTube | Facebook | LinkedInVisit BethPhilemon.com