I originally joined Kappa Delta Pi while serving as Director of Music Education (2018–2021) at NYU Steinhardt's Department of Music and the Performing Arts Professions. At that time, I was responsible for placing student teachers in classrooms across the five boroughs of New York City, and I wanted to stay up to date with the latest resources and insights that could support their success.
Now, in retirement, I find great joy in continuing my active membership in the KDP community. My journey as an educator has been shaped by more than forty years of music teaching across PK–16 settings—general, special, and higher education. Today, I’m fortunate to remain connected to students through my adjunct teaching on the faculties of NYU and LIU Post.
What Inspires Me to Teach
For me, teaching has always been inspired by the transformative power of music. I have witnessed time and again how music-assisted learning can change a child’s life—supporting academic growth, nurturing social-emotional skills, and contributing to health and wellness throughout the lifespan. These experiences inspired my newest publication: An Approach for Teaching Music to Diverse Learners: A Neuro-inclusive Resource, 4th Edition. This book reflects my belief that inclusive classrooms grounded in music can open doors for learners of all abilities.
Service Through Music and Community
I also enjoy using music to serve causes that matter to me. Whether it’s combining concert performances with fundraising for cancer prevention and cure or advocating for accessible arts education through workshops and keynote speeches, I find fulfillment in connecting my art with the needs of the community.
In addition, I serve as:
- Co-President of the Belle Voci Intergenerational Choral Society
- Advisory Board Member for Fundacion Muchila Creativo (FMC) in Aruba
- Board Member of the Music Educators Association of New York (MEANYC)
- Steering Committee Member of the Berklee Institute for Accessible Arts Education’s Leadership Network
The Gift of Mentorship
If I had to name my greatest passion, it would be mentorship. I love supporting new educators, helping them find their voice, and encouraging them to use their gifts to create inclusive, meaningful learning experiences. To me, that is the true legacy of teaching—the gift we pass on to others.
✨ Being part of KDP has given me the opportunity to stay connected to a vibrant community of educators who share the same commitment to service, growth, and the joy of learning. I’m grateful for the journey so far, and excited for what’s still ahead. — Elise S. Sobol, Ed.D.
Connect with Dr. Elise Sobol on LinkedIn
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