Welcome to The More You Know where you can find out some interesting facts about teachers around Glen Rock’s education. We bring music to The More You Know with Anna Lilikas of the music department. 

Question: What is your background? Any siblings? Parents’ professions?

I have a younger brother named Petey. My mom and dad both came over from Greece, my mom moving to the U.S. at 8 with my dad moving at the age of 18. My mom was a dental assistant for 15 years, and my dad opened a contracting business, initially painting and then later construction. 

Question: When did you get interested in music, what inspired you to want to become a music teacher?

My dad has always been a music person. He used to play Greek music tapes and me and my brother would dance to them. I did piano at the age of 5, later singing in elementary school. I loved my music department in high school, and it was then that I decided I wanted to pursue a career teaching music. 

Question: Do you play any instruments? 

Piano mainly, played flute in middle school till high school, and then a little bit of guitar. 

Question: Where did you go to college? Were there any areas of music that you were really interested in?

Syracuse university. Choral conducting is one of my favorite things to do, I want to get my doctorate in vocal pedagogy, how to probably teach vocal technique. 

Question: How many years have you taught in Glen Rock? Did you teach at any other schools before teaching here?

Year 7 for me in Glen Rock. I worked as a sub-teacher in Northern Valley in Demarest. 

Question: You teach both music theory, middle and high orchestra, band and choir with Mr. Helder. When you first came to Glen Rock what did you want to teach here?

Choir was the main thing I sought to teach when I got to Glen Rock. 

Question: If you weren’t a teacher, what other job could you see yourself doing?

My other major is speech pathology, a speech therapist. A music therapist I could see as well. 

Question: If a student is being difficult, how would you deal with them?

I think the most important thing is to make my expectations clear at the beginning of the class and year, expecting students to follow through. I want it to be at a one to one level but sometimes parent intervention is needed.

Question: Is there a song that you would really love for the band, orchestra, or choir to sing that hasn’t been done yet?

I really want the choir, orchestra, and band to collaborate for a score from the Hunchback of Notre Dame. I would love them all to do a medley together. 

Question: What is your biggest tip to those who want to become teachers in the future? 

Make sure it’s something you love, make sure you take time for yourself as well as your job.