Charlene Romano ’91 – Spring 2020 Updates

In March, Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music Theory Charlene Romano ’91, M.M., served as the adjunct representative to Shenandoah Conservatory’s Emergency Planning for Online Operations Committee.

In May, Romano also served as an adjudicator for the 2020 Virtual Solo Competition sponsored by Parasky Flute Studios. The competition was open to flute students across the Mid-Atlantic region, and included elementary, middle school, high school, undergraduate and graduate divisions.

In June, Romano served on the “What Can We Do?” roundtable discussion panel sponsored by The Well Musician. The discussion focused on promoting equity and inclusion, as well as supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, in private studios and on stage.

Romano and Assistant Professor of Music Theory Rachel Short, Ph.D., are featured in the newly released, groundbreaking music theory pedagogy textbook “Teaching Music Theory — New Voices and Approaches” (Oxford).

In spring 2018, Romano and Dr. Short hosted a visit to Shenandoah University by the textbook’s author Dr. Jennifer Snodgrass, professor of music theory at Appalachian State University’s Hayes School of Music. Snodgrass visited schools of music across the United States and Canada, observing theory and ear training classes and conducting research for her book. While at Shenandoah, Snodgrass observed Romano’s Ear Training 1 class and Short’s Introduction to Music Theory class; interviewed Romano about her pedagogical philosophy and performance-based approach to ear training; presented an inspiring lunch and learn – “Teaching Music Theory in the 21st Century” – to conservatory students, faculty and administrators; and followed up with an informal Q&A with students, facilitated by Romano and Short.

The textbook features the author’s observation of Romano’s ear training class with quotes from the interview, in a section titled “Friendly Tug of War.” (The title is based on a quote from Romano’s interview and refers to her ideas on the connections between performing chamber music and classroom teaching.) Short’s innovative uses of technology in the classroom are also highlighted.

Romano was also recognized as a SUperwoman of Shenandoah University by the [Not Just] Women’s Center in April for her contributions to the university and community.