97. Inspiring the Next Generation: A Conversation with Daniella Valdez of CYSO String Ensembles and Maine West High School in Des Plaines, IL

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Episode 97 – Inspiring the Next Generation: A Conversation with Daniella Valdez

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Daniella Valdez, a dynamic music educator, conductor, and advocate for orchestral excellence. As the Director of String Ensembles at the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO) and Director of Orchestras at Maine West High School, Ms. Valdez has dedicated her career to building strong, successful programs that inspire young musicians.

Join us as we explore her journey from Texas Tech and Northwestern University to leading award-winning ensembles in Illinois and Texas. We’ll discuss her contributions to ASTA at both state and national levels, and traits that earned her the recognition as the 2024 Youth Orchestra Conductor of the Year.

This episode is packed with insights on music education, leadership, and creating inclusive, thriving orchestra programs. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with one of today’s most inspiring orchestra educators!

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

* BIOGRAPHY *

Daniella Valdez is CYSO Director of String Ensembles and conducts CYSO’s Preparatory Strings and Accelerando Strings ensembles. She received her musical training at Texas Tech University and Northwestern University School of Music, where she received her Bachelor and Master of Music degrees respectively.

In 2011 Ms. Valdez joined the faculty staff at Maine West High School, in Des Plaines, Illinois, as the Director of Orchestras. In this capacity she conducts one full orchestra, two string ensembles and teaches piano classes. Prior to her appointment at Maine West, Ms. Valdez was an orchestra director in Lewisville, TX and Highland Park, IL. Her career as a music educator and conductor has led to developing strong and successful orchestra programs. Ms. Valdez is an active judge and clinician working with community schools, festivals and workshops and has written several publications for music education journals. She is an active member of the Illinois Educators Association and she sits on the board of the American String Teachers Association- Illinois chapter. In addition, she also serves on the ASTA national board as member-at-large. In addition to her work with orchestras, she is also active in educating and implementing DEIA initiatives with organizations and schools.

Also an accomplished commercial player, she has performed on stage with Chuck Mangione, Marvin Hamlish, Toni Tennille, and John Pizzarelli. Daniella lives in Chicago and enjoys traveling, cooking and being with family and friends.

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