Mari Schay

About the Author

Mari Schay is a passionate educator and musician with over three decades of experience in elementary music education, where she has inspired countless young minds to discover the joy of music-making. Holding a degree in music education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she has taught in diverse school settings, from urban public schools to rural classrooms, emphasizing inclusive and creative approaches to learning. As an advocate for accessible music instruction, Schay has presented at national conferences and contributed to educational journals, sharing her insights on curriculum development and student engagement. Her book, Making Music in the Elementary School (A Guide to Who, How, What, and Why We Teach), distills her expertise into a practical resource for teachers seeking to foster musical literacy and enthusiasm in their students. Beyond the classroom, she enjoys composing simple melodies for children and volunteering with community arts programs, always striving to make music a vibrant part of every child's life.