Audrey Gould ’28, staff writer
This semester, a new music professor is settling in at The Valley.
Grace Jackson, assistant professor of music, has had music in her life from a very young age.
“I grew up in a musical family, so it was part of my education,” Jackson said. “And I think from probably middle school or high school, I knew I wanted to major in music in college.”
Whether it was at church or a private studio, college students or small children, Jackson says she always knew she wanted to teach.
“Music was the avenue that I wanted to use to teach because it is a skill that I had developed from a young age,” she said.
Even with her musical upbringing, Jackson’s parents allowed her to make her own decisions about her future. Even so, Jackson chose music. Now, she is bringing that passion to LVC.
LVC became Jackson’s destination after seeing a job posting for an organ instructor, a job that opens infrequently. The organ is Jackson’s primary instrument.
Jackson teaches private piano and organ lessons, class piano, the handball ensemble and a graduate course for music education students of music and educator wellness, the latter of which Jackson studies.
“The students are amazing and committed to what they do,” she said. “And I love that we have so many non-music majors involved in our programs through our ensembles. I think that's a really important thing and that goes to show the importance of music education.”
Jackson made strong connections with her professors while completing her undergraduate degree at Oklahoma City University. Now at LVC, Jackson hopes to make similar connections with her students.
“We've talked a lot about discipline and the discipline it takes to be a musician,” she said. “It builds relationships between people.”
If you are interested in playing the organ, joining the handbell ensemble or have any other questions, Jackson can be reached at gjackson@lvc.edu