ROB PATTERSON, Upper School Music Teacher

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When I was two years old I received a cassette tape (remember those!) of a musical based on The Pilgrim's Progress. I used to sit with the player on my lap listening to the songs for hours on end. That may well be when I first began to love music. Since then I have gained an appreciation for music of all kinds.

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I have enjoyed performing in musicals and operas, studying classical voice in Italy, recording worship music in Nashville and Austin, and leading bands and choirs locally. But singing in choir, in particular, has been a life changing experience. In choir we connect to something greater than ourselves. We learn to respect and value one another’s contribution. We also learn how to worship God beautifully and in unity with the gathered church. Because of all this, it is a huge joy for me to teach our students in the St. Abraham's Choir!

SARAH PRESTON, Lower School Music Teacher, Drama Teacher

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My love for working with kids began in the 7th grade while serving in the children's ministry in Indian Wells, CA. I moved to Santa Cruz in 2009 to study for a Bachelor's Degree in Intensive Psychology with a minor in Education. Since moving to Santa Cruz, I have led worship and large group time for the Children's Ministry at Vintage Faith Church, as well as leading their Christmas and Easter choirs. I have also worked with Christian Youth Theater since 2013 teaching drama, voice, dance, and my personal favorite, improvisational comedy. I have also taught dance at Agape Dance Academy. I love seeing kids express themselves creatively using the gifts that God gave them!

 

Education was always part of my family discourse growing up. My mother recently retired after her 40th year of teaching. My older sister teaches High School Calculus and my older brother just became an Elementary Principal, after teaching PE for several years. I am excited to be joining the family business by teaching Kindergarten this year along with Elementary Music and a Drama Elective for the upper grades.