Ellen Jane Francese

Ellen Jane Francese is a Professor at Berklee College of Music, where she has taught English and Artistry courses since 2006. With a teaching career spanning over 40 years, she specializes in interdisciplinary pedagogy, connecting music, literature, and art to foster student creativity and critical thinking.

Her research and practice focus on

• Interdisciplinary music and literature education
• English as a Second Language (ESL) for international students
• Service learning in Latino neighborhoods and teen lock-up facilities
• Global citizenship programs in Haiti and South Africa
• Cultural representation in BIPOC and queer communities

Notable awards include:

• Berklee Urban Service Award (twice)
• Dean's Award for Teaching for Excellence
• Faculty-led Innovations in Teaching Grant
• Berklee Fellowship for Dance and Poetry
• FLY Grant and Newbury Comics Fellowship Grant

Francese emphasizes student-centered learning, creating safe environments for risk-taking and dialogue. Her work integrates music education with social responsibility, including projects like instrument petting zoos for immigrant preschoolers and music lessons for the homeless.