Manju Durairaj

Manju Durairaj is an Adjunct Professor at VanderCook College of Music, teaching graduate and undergraduate courses in curriculum design and elementary music methods. She holds a second master’s degree from VanderCook and K-12 certification. Her expertise spans culturally responsive pedagogy, technology integration in music education, and arts-based learning.

Education:

• Graduate research at Middlesex University, London (comparative pedagogical practices of Indian Carnatic and Western music)
• Second master’s degree and K-12 certification from VanderCook College of Music

Professional Roles:

• Lower School Music Teacher at Latin School of Chicago
• Vice President Elect for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at AOSA
• Past President of the Greater Chicago Orff Chapter
• Certified Orff Schulwerk Levels Instructor and Arts Integration Specialist
• Member of the Elementary General Music Council of the IL Music Education Association

Her teaching philosophy emphasizes inclusive, technology-driven approaches. She frequently presents at state/national/international conferences and has published in journals like Orff Echo, General Music Today, and Journal of the Council for Research in Music Education. She authored materials with Hal Leonard, including InterAct with Music Assessment and Technology in Today’s Music Classroom.

Professional Development:

• Teaches continuing education courses on topics like Responsive Classroom and 21st-century teaching