Wendell Hanna

Wendell Hanna is a Professor of Music Education and Bassoon at San Francisco State University (SFSU), part of the College of Creative Arts. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Oregon (2000), an M.M. from Yale University (1987), and a B.A. from the University of South Florida (1985). Her research focuses on music education, early childhood development, somatics, and the Reggio Emilia approach. She has authored numerous scholarly articles and a book, A Children’s Music Studio: A Reggio-Inspired Approach (Oxford University Press, 2016). Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary arts integration, innovative pedagogy, and somatic practices for stress management. Dr. Hanna teaches bassoon and contributes to SFSU’s music education programs, advocating for participatory and technology-enhanced learning strategies.

Her educational background includes advanced studies in music performance and education, with a strong emphasis on child-centered methodologies. She has explored Bloom’s taxonomy in music education contexts and pioneered the use of split-screen technology for instrumental instruction. Her research on somatics addresses chronic stress and sensory-motor amnesia, integrating body-awareness practices into educational frameworks.

Dr. Hanna’s publications reflect her commitment to bridging theory and practice, particularly in early childhood music education and arts-based learning. Her work has been featured in journals like Arts Education Policy Review and Somatics. She currently serves as a faculty member in the School of Music and Dance, contributing to curriculum development and student mentorship.