Rita Gigliotti
I'm Rita Gigliotti, a passionate and experienced music educator, performer, and advocate for the transformative power of music.
Currently at George Mason University, I have a Graduate Certificate in Music for Well-Being and am completing my Doctorate in Music Education. I am deeply committed to exploring the intersection of music, wellness, and education.
With over two decades of experience in K-12 music education, I've dedicated myself to fostering excellence in my students.
As the former Choral Director at South Lakes High School in Reston, VA, I led multiple award-winning choirs, mentored student-run a cappella groups, and organized impactful music events.
My choirs consistently earned superior ratings at state and national assessments and had the honor of performing at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and Epcot in Walt Disney World.
Currently at George Mason University, I have a Graduate Certificate in Music for Well-Being and am completing my Doctorate in Music Education. I am deeply committed to exploring the intersection of music, wellness, and education.
With over two decades of experience in K-12 music education, I've dedicated myself to fostering excellence in my students.
As the former Choral Director at South Lakes High School in Reston, VA, I led multiple award-winning choirs, mentored student-run a cappella groups, and organized impactful music events.
My choirs consistently earned superior ratings at state and national assessments and had the honor of performing at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and Epcot in Walt Disney World.
Certifications
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Pursuing Doctorate (PhD) in Music Education at George Mason University
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Graduate Certificate in Music for Well-Being (George Mason University, 2022)
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Level 2 Certification in Contemporary Commercial Music pedagogy at the CCM Institute
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Pranayama Certification with Maryam Ovissi at Beloved Yoga
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Healing Touch Certificates - Level 1, 2, and 3
Professional Highlights
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Director for the Healing Arts Ensemble and instructor for the Music for Well-Being
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Board member for the Friends of Mason Music
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Former President of the Fairfax County Choral Directors Association
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Co-producer and host of SingStrongDC for nine years (2009-2016)
Associations
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The National Association for Music Education (NAfME)
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American Choral Directors Association (ACDA)
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International Symposium for Music Education (ISME)
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American Psychology Association Division 10 (APA)
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College Music Society (CMS)
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Chorus America
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A Cappella Education Association
Testimonials
"EXPERT CHORAL TEACHER"
As a classical singer myself, I wanted to make sure my daughter received a solid and healthy foundation for her own vocal progress. Rita has been the perfect teacher for my daughter as an expert high school choral teacher who knows how to personally connect with high schoolers and how to bring out the best in all types of young voices while blending classical and contemporary vocal pedagogy as appropriate for each singer.
NYLA LOUH
"INSPIRED BY HER ENERGY"
When I first met Mrs. G, I was immediately inspired by her energy and determination. I loved walking into her classroom and being able to feel safe to experiment with my voice. I really enjoyed my time in the classroom, so I decided to start private voice lessons with her. Since then, my voice has grown immensely and I look forward to every lesson. Together, we've worked several audition pieces, but also explored other genres, ranging from musical theater to Italian art songs.
ALESSANDRA FIORE
"CONSISTENTLY WON ACCLAMATION"
Rita is an amazing and caring teacher who gives 100% to everything she does! Her choirs and musical productions at South Lakes High School consistently won acclamation, honors, and awards. Her students then and now are very lucky to learn from her.
ANDREW GOLDSTEIN
Whether you need a music researcher, choral clinician, or private vocal coach, I provide a wide range of services.