Danielle

M. Berger
7427 Southworth Cir Plainfield, IL 60586 | danielle.berger1992@gmail.com | 815-603-8955

PROFESSIONAL MUSIC EDUCATOR / BAND DIRECTOR

~ Music ~ Grades 4 -8 (Middle School) ~ Grades 9 – 12 (High School) ~
Accomplished, dedicated, creative, and enthusiastic Music Professional with four (4) years of practical hands-on
experience within the school and band environment, in combination with a Bachelors of Music Education, and a
Professional Educator License for Music. Possess a systematic and result-driven student-centered approach, resulting
in demonstrated continuous growth and achievements. Proven ability to promote a safe learning environment,
ensuring a school culture that encourages continuous improvements and a desire for lifelong learning in both
teachers and students. Recognized for the empowerment of students to rise above the adversity of their community
and emerge as capable and emotive musicians. A collaborative team player with excellent interpersonal and
communication skills to foster meaningful relationships within the school community.

Areas of Expertise

• Holistic / Collaborative Learning • Student Motivation • Student Empowerment
Environment • Music Production / Technology • Full Band / Ensemble Instruction
• Performance Assessments • Private Lesson Instruction • Social / Emotional Student
• Concerts / Band Coordination • Rhythm-Reading Development
• Marching Fundamentals • Drill Reading / Cleaning • Instrument Fundamentals
• Sight-Reading • Fundraising • Music Sectionals


EXPERIENCE SUMMARY

DOLTON SD 149., (Aug 2017 – June 2018) AND CHANEY-MONGE SCHOOL (Jul 2015 – May 2017)

Band Director
§ Created a comprehensive band curriculum 4th-8th grade which includes instrument fundamentals, sight-reading,
and varied repertoire. Through the consistent use of this curriculum, students improved from a performance
level of grade 0.5 to a comfortable grade 1.5 - 2 after 2 years. Ensure that the ensembles size and abilities are
taken into account when selecting music to be performed.
§ Plan, implement and coordinate school wide fundraisers and promotional activities to update school library and
purchase much needed band equipment.
§ Understand and utilize musical gestures to accurate demonstrate the music being played and communicate the
desired tempo, phrasing, pitch, and other performance aspects.
§ Direct band ensembles during rehearsals and live performances; work to bring all parts of the band together in
harmony and tempo.

TIMBER RIDGE M.S., (Aug 2017 – Present)

Summer Beginning Band Classes (2017, 2018)
§ Supervised groups ranging from 4-20 students
§ Taught fundamental instrumental skills
§ Mentored former students who came back to help out during camp
§ Communicated with beginning band staff
§ Implemented Essential Elements Interactive Accounts
DANIELLE M. BERGER Plainfield, IL 60586 | danielle.berger1992@gmail.com | 815-603-8955 PAGE 2

PLAINFIELD SOUTH H.S., (Aug 2013 – Present) and MONTICELLO H.S. (Jul 2016 – Aug 2016)

Clarinet Instructor/Field Tech

§ Teach marching fundamentals, drill reading / cleaning, and music sectionals for high school students studying the
clarinet.
§ Work with studently consistently to help prepare them for upcoming performances and / or assessments. Take
part in regular review of progress to assist in identifying any students that could benefit from additional
instruction.
§ Create environment where students were comfortable taking musical risks and asking questions with the idea
that every student deserves the attention necessary for improvement. Work closely with other teachers to
provide collaborative support for students.

JOLIET CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL, Jan 2015 – May 2015

Student Teacher (Band Setting)

§ Taught classes ranging from 10 – 85 students (9th to 12th grade); created and implemented rhythm-reading
lessons using popular music relevant to current musical tastes.
§ Utilized powerful teaching strategies to address student needs with IEPs and 504 plans; created a band
environment that welcomed questions, risk taking, and encouraged a love of music.

TROY MIDDLE SCHOOL, Jan 2015 – Mar 2015

Student Teacher (Band Setting)

§ Directed the rehearsal of grade 6 to 8 concert bands to prepare for upcoming concerts; students performed at
varying levels of ability and instruction was tailored to meet individual learning needs.
§ Taught pull out lessons for 5th grade beginners.
§ Created individualized instruction based on special education needs and behavioral plans set in place with
student case manager. Completed consistent review of student progress and provided recommendations to the
Student Case Manager related to any modifications to the curriculum.

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER, Jan 2014 – May 2014

Volunteer
§ Provided a multidisciplinary collaboration with colleagues from psychology, dance, and visual arts to teach
lessons once a week.

CHAMPAIGN SCHOOL OF MUSIC, Dec 2013 – Sep 2014
Woodwind/Brass Instructor
§ Provided private instruction for individual students with varying abilities including one student who was selected
for Junior IMEA District Band.
§ Worked regularly with each student providing recital coaching to ensure the best preparation and build their
confidence before a performance.
§ Taught group classes when requested for varying age/instrumentation.







DANIELLE M. BERGER Plainfield, IL 60586 | danielle.berger1992@gmail.com | 815-603-8955 PAGE 3

EDUCATION
Bachelors of Music Education, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2015
Illinois Professional Educator License, Music K-12, May 2015 – Jun 2020

PERFORMANCE EXPERIENCE
• River Valley Wind Ensemble (Kankakee), University of Illinois Wind Symphony/Wind Orchestra, University of
Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra, Marching Illini, and UI Basketball Band.

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AND LEADERSHIP
• National Band Association - President, Fall 2012-Spring 2013
• National Association for Music Education
• Marching Illini (5-year member) - Section Leader/Squad Leader 3 years
• Krannert Center for the Performing Arts - House Manager.
• University of Illinois Wind Symphony and Philharmonic Orchestra
• River Valley Wind Ensemble


TECHNOLOGY SKILLS / MUSIC SOFTWARE
§ Microsoft Office/Outlook, Finale / Sibelius, Garage Band, Audacity, Pyware 3D, Google Classroom, RTI and
PBIS