Shenandoah Conservatory welcomed acclaimed singer-songwriter and touring artist Dan Navarro last month for several engaging sessions with music students. Navarro shared insights from his decades-long career as a performer and songwriter, offering guidance on creative practice, the realities of life on the road and navigating today’s music industry. Students also asked questions and gained valuable perspectives on artistry, collaboration and building a sustainable career in music.

Navarro’s eclectic 40-year career as a songwriter, artist, singer and voice actor includes 19 acclaimed albums; thousands of concerts; Oscar-winning films such as “Encanto,” “Coco,” “Puss ‘N Boots” and “Happy Feet;” television; video games; and commercials; as well as writing hits like Pat Benatar’s Grammy-nominated “We Belong.”

His visit was coordinated by Interim Director of Contemporary Musicianship & Entrepreneur Development (CMED) and Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Jesse Terry, B.M.