Simone Parker

Simone Parker is an Adjunct Professor of Alexander Technique at Vanderbilt University's Blair School of Music since 2023. She also maintains an independent studio (Sparkling Keys and Strings) offering piano, violin, viola instruction, and Alexander Technique sessions. Since 2012, she has been on the faculty of Austin Peay State University (APSU). Her roles include serving as principal pianist for the Paducah Symphony Orchestra and a licensed BodyMapping Educator since 2024.

Education: B.A. (magna cum laude) and M.M. (with honors) in Piano Performance from APSU. Certifications include Alexander Technique teacher accreditation via ATI (2015), National Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM since 2014), and BodyMapping Educator licensure (ABME).

Research interests focus on integrative music pedagogy, somatic techniques for musicians (Alexander Technique/Body Mapping), and fostering student-centered music education. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes joy-driven learning, technical proficiency, and life-long musical engagement.

Awards: Recipient of APSU's Excellence of Teaching Award (2010) for student-centric instruction. Professional involvement includes workshops/conferences in music pedagogy and somatic practices.

Advising/Grants: No grants mentioned. Advises students through her studio and university affiliations. Active in mentoring young musicians through performance opportunities and ensemble collaborations.

Labs/Teams: Leads Sparkling Keys and Strings studio, collaborates with Paducah Symphony Orchestra, and supports music ensembles through accompaniment and pedagogical guidance.