To Whom It May Concern: April, 2021

It is a pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Grace Kenny. As Grace’s cooperating teacher in her high
school orchestra student teaching placement, I have had numerous opportunities to observe and teach with her in a
variety of classes and rehearsals in a school with a diverse student population. Grace was also instrumental in creating
adaptations to our curriculum to meet the needs of remote and hybrid instruction during the COVID19 pandemic. Grace
has demonstrated an excellent work ethic, a compassion for students, and an incredibly high level of musicianship.
Grace’s work ethic was evident from the first day of her placement. Her ability to take initiative during her
placement was valuable. When Grace saw a job that needed to be done she instantly jumped into action without being
asked. These skills will be invaluable to her at the beginning of her music teaching career. Her work ethic became even
more evident when she was preparing to teach orchestra classes as well as small group lessons. She was comfortable
delivering instruction live in the classroom, synchronous through ZOOM and Google Classroom as well as creating
engaging asynchronies lessons. It was obvious that Grace had spent hours brainstorming and preparing to effectively
share her expertise with the students.
One of the characteristics that I feel is most important when teaching music is compassion. Students will work
harder for teachers when they know that the teacher truly cares for them and their progress. Grace did an excellent job of
demonstrating this quality. The students in all three of our school orchestras instantly made a connection with Grace and
wanted to please her with their behavior and playing. Grace took time to talk to the students about their lives both in and
out of the classroom.
The most exceptional characteristic that Grace brings to the music education classroom is her incredibly high level
of musicianship. This was apparent whether playing violin (her principle instrument) or the other stringed instruments.
She also demonstrated that she could successfully model proper technique and a produce a great sound on both cello and
double bass. During unplanned downtimes that may pop up during our day I would often find Grace practicing cello or
double bass in order to model it properly to her classes. Grace is also a clear conductor when on the podium and the
students had no issue following her conducting gestures.
As a music educator I have been on multiple committees to hire new teachers for the Williamsport Area School
District. I would not hesitate to contact Grace if there is a music teacher opening in our school district. I am excited to
watch her career as a teacher and I give her my absolute highest recommendation. If you have any questions please do
not hesitate to contact me at any time.

Sincerely,

Matthew A. Radspinner
Orchestra/Strolling Strings Director
Williamsport Area High School
570-323-8411 ext 68161 (w)
570-447-7637 (h)
mradspin@wasd.org