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Molto Tenuto! CMC honors two impressive instructors

On Saturday, May 12, the Community Music Center celebrates the contributions of two long-term teachers in the CMC Faculty Showcase Event.  For event information and reservations, see our event page.

Clarisse Atcherson - 26 years
Clarisse became an instructor at CMC in the summer of 1986, shortly after she joined the Oregon Symphony.  “I enjoy teaching at CMC for the camaraderie of the faculty and staff, and the quality of the students.  I am grateful that Portland Parks & Recreation and CMC non-profit work together to make music instruction available for all students, regardless of personal circumstances.”
One of the many special moments she recalls was during a student recital.  A student broke a string during her solo.  Another student, unprompted by anyone, hurried up to the stage and gave her his violin so she could play her piece.  “I felt happy!”, says Clarisse.
She cites two things that keep her inspired: “Every student is ‘new,’ and my teaching ideas continue to evolve.  Everything I learn from teaching gets passed on to the next students.”
She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music and has a Master’s degree from Southern Illinois University.  Clarisse has been a teacher trainer for institutes at Pacific University and Sanford University, among others.

Stevie McDougal - Over 34 years
Stephanie (“Stevie”) McDougal came to teach at CMC at the invitation of Director Phil Murthe. Initially it was to substitute teach for Naomi Blumberg.  Stevie recalls, “I agreed to take her students.  Then Phil made sure that I had a number of new students, knowing that I wouldn’t desert them.  And the rest is history.”
I’m inspired as a teacher by the experience of watching students blossom into fine musicians from ‘clay’...It gives me incredible satisfaction.”  It is clear Stevie also relishes the interaction with the kids; laughter is often heard through the lesson room door.
“The best things about CMC are watching children enjoy music.  Music is such an important part of my life and I love passing that love on to young people.  I really enjoy walking into the Center and hearing children making music throughout the building.” Stevie received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Stephens College and graduate studies at Indiana University.  She performed with the Oregon Symphony for 38 years and now plays in the Newport Symphony.