RCM Smart Start Faculty Spotlight: Meet Our Early Childhood Music Teachers!

This fall, Music Institute of Chicago will become the exclusive regional provider of RCM Smart Start, a research-informed early childhood program that uses music, movement, play, and the arts to support children’s cognitive development.

Meet the teachers who will bring the program to life and help young children build a joyful foundation for lifelong engagement with music!

Education & Background
Noralyn holds a Bachelor of Music Education from St. Paul University of Manila, with a major in piano and minor in church organ music. She has more than 30 years of experience as an early childhood music educator and piano instructor. Her additional training includes Kodály studies at the Kodály Pedagogical Institute of Music in Kecskemét, Hungary, as well as Orff and Dalcroze certifications from DePaul University.

Teaching Philosophy
"My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child is capable of reaching their greatest potential when encouraged through self-expression and nurtured creativity. I strive to ensure every lesson is enjoyable, meaningful, and fun, as these positive experiences foster long-term musical retention. By providing rich musical engagement at a young age—both at home and in the learning environment—we give children the opportunity to become lifelong learners and lovers of music."

Outside the Classroom
When she's not working with music, Noralyn loves to lead her church's youth group in performing juggling, acrobatic skills, dancing cultural dances, playing instruments, and singing in the community. They love to perform in nursing homes, youth gatherings, and festivals. Additionally, she enjoys playing WII at home with her kids.

Read Noralyn’s insights in "The Benefits of Early Childhood Music Classes"

Education & Background
Jennifer holds a Master of Music in Voice Performance from North Park University and a Bachelor of Arts in Music Theatre from Carthage College. With extensive experience as a performer and teacher, she works with students of all ages and levels, helping them develop confidence and expressivity in their voices.

Teaching Philosophy
"I reach out to all types and ages of students, from child to adult, beginner to advanced, and teach them how to find confidence and beauty in their own voice with no aesthetic or stylistic bias. Through my respectful approach students deepen their sense of humanity and strengthen their character, while cultivating their musicianship and musical sophistication."

Outside the Classroom
Jennifer enjoys backpacking, running, crocheting blankets for her family, and working with her church’s youth group.

Education & Background
Lucia holds a Bachelor of Music in Classical Voice, graduating summa cum laude from Universidad Nacional de las Artes, and a Master of Music in Vocal Pedagogy with an emphasis in classical voice from Carthage College. She has extensive experience teaching private voice, children’s and youth choirs, and college-level singers.

Teaching Philosophy
"As a voice teacher, I strive to help students find freedom, health, and expressivity in their singing while developing strong technical foundations. My teaching emphasizes breath management, resonance balance, and body awareness, always adapting to the unique needs of each singer. I am particularly passionate about guiding young singers in their first steps into classical voice, while also supporting singers in choral, operatic, and solo repertoire. My special interests include vocal pedagogy, diction, acting for singers, and bridging classical vocal traditions with diverse musical styles."

Outside the Classroom
Lucia also teaches Spanish at the college level and loves reading and the arts. She sees music as a source of connection and a way to transform ordinary moments into something meaningful.

Read Lucia's insights in "Why Voice Lessons Matter for Every Singer"

Early childhood is a special time to discover, explore, and connect.  RCM Smart Start creates opportunities for children and care providers to experience music together, building joyful memories and a foundation for a lifelong relationship with music.

Inquire Now and find a class near you!