Eileen Finley: author, teacher, musician, creative spirit

I completed my first book, a memoir entitled What Lies Within, in 2018. After retiring from a 50 year music career, writing emerged naturally and organically as a new expression of my creative voice. In an effort to learn all that I could about the craft, I attended writer’s conferences, participated in on-line courses, and took workshops led by brilliant author-teachers. In addition to starting my second memoir, I am currently developing my skills at writing other literary forms, including Essay and Poetry.

But before that….

I founded the Pennsylvania Youth Chorale, a non-profit, community children’s choir (1977), and served as CEO of the corporation for 40 years. As artistic director, I conducted performances with the PYC in Canada, England, Scotland, Wales, Germany and throughout the US, and my choirs performed on major stages including the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia, Bass Hall in Dallas-Fort Worth, and Carnegie Hall in NYC. I was honored with a Citation of Excellence from the Pennsylvania Music Educators’ Association (1984), and with the PYC Community Service Award (2002) on the 25th anniversary of the choir.

But before that….

I taught elementary vocal music for 36 years in the Neshaminy School District. I also taught courses on the graduate and undergraduate levels at the University of Pennsylvania, Westminster Choir College of Rider University, NJ, and Cairn University, PA. I’ve frequently been invited to be a guest conductor at music conferences and festivals, and as a guest lecturer, I’ve presented music methods workshops at regional and state conferences. Throughout my teaching career, I was the recipient of numerous awards from the Neshaminy School Board.

But before that…

I graduated from College Misericordia (1969) with a degree in music education, with a major in piano and minors in clarinet and organ. After graduation, I studied piano and violin at the Settlement Music School in Philadelphia, and earned a Master’s degree in education at Trenton State University (1975). I advanced my studies at the Kodaly Institute in Kecskemet, Hungary (1976) and received Kodaly certification from the Kodaly Center of America (1981). I received the Recognition For Excellence Alumni Award from College Misericordia (1989), and was honored with a tribute in Misericordia Today, Winter 2018, “Music Maker.”.

But always and forever…

I live a creative life powered by passion, discipline and dedication.

I draw inspiration from the beauty and wonder of nature.

I trust my inner strength, God, and the wisdom of the universe to guide me.

I treasure my creative voice, whether it sings, teaches or writes, as a force for good.

I am grateful.