معرفی
Dr. Hildy Schilling is a Professor in the Music Department at Fitchburg State University's School of Humanities, where she conducts the Fitchburg State University Community Orchestra. With over two decades of teaching experience since joining as an adjunct instructor in 1999 and transitioning to tenure-track in 2006, she has established herself as a dedicated educator committed to inclusive musical development for students of all skill levels.
Her educational background includes a Bachelor's and Master's in violin/viola performance and psychology from Southern Methodist University, followed by a PhD in cognitive psychology from UMass Amherst. This unique interdisciplinary foundation informs her approach to music education and community engagement.
Dr. Schilling specializes in community music programs, leading the University Community Orchestra which welcomes participants ranging from beginners to professionals. The orchestra performs diverse repertoire spanning classical, folk, jazz, and rock genres, reflecting her commitment to accessible and varied musical experiences.
Her research interests bridge cognitive psychology and music performance, focusing on:
- Stress reduction through ensemble participation
- Community building in musical settings
- Cross-disciplinary applications of performance psychology
Dr. Schilling actively promotes student involvement in ensembles as vital components of holistic education, emphasizing their role in developing social connections and emotional well-being. She maintains an open-door policy for prospective ensemble members, encouraging observation of rehearsals before commitment.
