Vocal Coach

Patricia Januszewski, known to her students as Mrs. J, teaches elementary/choral music at Oakview and Red Bank Schools in West Deptford Township, Kindergarten through 4th grade. Throughout her teaching career, Mrs. J has welcomed many college students into her classroom as observers, practicum students and student teachers providing opportunities for students interested in careers as music teachers. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Glassboro State College.

In 1974, Mrs. J became a member of Singing City Choir under the direction of Elaine Brown and sang with the premier choral group for 3 years. She also has served as a soloist in church choirs and community choruses in the region. Mrs. J was an original member of Lauda! Chamber Singers under the direction of Charles Walker. As a member of Lauda!, she served on it’s board of directors and sang with the ensemble for it’s 14 year existence.

Mrs. J is a member of the Music Educators National Conference and the American Choral Directors Association. In 1992, Mrs. J was selected to conduct the Elementary Festival Chorus for the South Jersey Music Educators. A recipient of the MENC Master Music Teacher Award in 1994, Mrs. J also was honored with the Governor’s Medallion for Teaching Excellence in the Arts that same year.

Mrs. J is an active presenter of music programs and workshops aimed at developing ideas for teachers in the classroom. She has developed presentations for MENC, ACDA, NJEA, Rowan, the Gloucester County School Consortium and school districts in the region.

In 2008, Mrs. J was named West Deptford Teacher of the Year for her district. Mrs. J just completed her 36th year of teaching music. She is looking forward to many more years with ChildrenSong and is honored to work with Mrs. Murray and Mrs. Watts. “I’ve spent my life working as a musician and becoming a knowledgeable and effective teacher. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to share my experience with so many wonderful musicians in the making!”

Mrs. J can be reached via email at pjchildrensong [dot] org.