Brenda Brenner

Brenda Brenner is the Eugene O'Brien Bicentennial Executive Associate Dean and Professor of Music in Music Education at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. She specializes in string music education, teaching applied violin and courses in violin and string pedagogy. Her administrative and instructional roles include co-directorship of the IU String Academy, where her students perform globally, and leadership of the Fairview Project, researching cognitive and social impacts of early music education.

Education:

• D.M., Doctor of Music, Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester, 1990
• M.M., Master of Music, Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester, 1986
• B.M., Bachelor of Music, Wichita State University, 1984
• B.M.E., Bachelor of Music Education, Wichita State University, 1984

Her research explores string pedagogy, early childhood music education, and socio-cognitive outcomes of instrumental training. The Fairview Project—teaching violin to underserved elementary students—examines academic and developmental benefits. As an international clinician, she presents at major conferences like the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic and American String Teachers Association events.

Performance collaborations include pianist Kenneth Huber and organist Christopher Young. She teaches at the IU Summer String Academy and serves as assistant director of the IU Retreat for Professional Violinists and Violists.