Maria Papazachariou Christoforou

Maria Papazachariou Christoforou is an Assistant Professor of Music Education and Pedagogy at the Department of Education Sciences, European University Cyprus. She holds a PhD in Music Education and Pedagogy from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2016), a Master of Music in Music Education from Michigan State University (2008), and a Bachelor of Primary Education from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (1998). Her career includes roles as Director of Public Primary Music Education at Cyprus's Ministry of Education (2008–2022) and as a primary school music educator (1993–2018).

Her research focuses on informal music learning practices, musical identity development, technology integration in education, and curriculum innovation. Notable projects include leading the 'Living Music in Early Childhood' (2019-today) and 'Music during pregnancy and infancy' (2020-today) initiatives. She has contributed to music curriculum development in Cyprus and mentors educators through the Gordon Institute of Music Learning.

Her publications explore topics such as musical journeys in Cyprus, STEAM-based educational interventions, and the role of movement in music education. She actively participates in academic committees, including the Greek Society of Music Education and the Ministry of Education's teacher hiring committees.

Her work bridges theory and practice, emphasizing embodied learning, maker culture integration, and the emotional dimensions of music in early childhood. She collaborates internationally, notably with institutions in Greece, the U.S., and Portugal.