My name is Rachel Kvale, and I am so excited to bring the love of music to our students at St. Frances Cabrini. I graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education – Vocal Emphasis and a minor in history, and I will be returning to the UW this fall to complete my Master’s in Music Education in 2028.
I have never known a moment in my life without music, and I aim to spread the love to our students. Being a music teacher is truly my dream job, and I hope that our students see the joy music and being their teacher brings me. Despite teaching so many students, it is my goal to cultivate personal relationships with the students so that they feel welcome every time they step into my classroom.
I grew up in Southern California before moving to the PNW, attending college, meeting my wonderful husband, and starting my professional career. In my spare time, I enjoy cuddling with my two cats, exploring the world with my husband, Irish dancing, and seeing as many musicals as possible. I try to fill the stereotype of being the quirky, silly music teacher that our students remember long after they leave St. Frances Cabrini.
Philosophy statements:
- I believe that every child can be successful at music, because it is more than having a good singing voice.
- I believe that every child can rise to the expectations set before them.
- I will teach students to be responsible and caring humans who are ready to face the world once they leave school.
- My class is an open space for all students where they will not feel judged for who they are.
- Music is an opening to the soul, and it can lead to being able to express emotions and feelings that otherwise may not be expressed.
Pre-K
Move their bodies in time to music
Sing in tune with the teacher and as a class
Sing while doing actions
Learn basic steady beat rhythmic skills
K through 3rd Grade
Learn the importance of having fun as it relates to music
Be able to identify high vs low sounds and translate them into the Kodaly solfege model with matching hand signs
Be able to identify increasingly difficult rhythms by hearing it
Be able to read and say increasingly difficult rhythms
Sing in tune individually and as a class