In the past 6 years, Spectrum has become home to an amazing team of instructors, therapists, and administrative professionals who are passionate about making Spectrum an awesome place to explore the arts! Our team is what makes the magic happen here, and we are proud to work alongside such talented individuals! In this new series, we’ll be highlighting a member of our team and sharing a little bit of their personal journey into the arts.
This month, we’re so excited to feature music therapist, Chelsea Vaccarelli!
Hello, everyone!
My name is Chelsea Vaccarelli and I happily joined Spectrum’s Music Therapy team in July of 2019. Music has always been an integral part of my life since I was a young. I have been singing for as long as I can remember. My mom is a musician and some of my fondest childhood memories include singing in the living room with my sisters while my mom jammed on her guitar (four part harmony was always a must!). Music has always been a constant source of comfort in my life.
My passion for music evolved through high school and college. When I was a Sophomore in high school, I was selected to travel to Prague and sing with a choir along with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra. An experience I will never forget and will cherish forever. In 2012 I graduated from Oneonta State, where I received my Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in voice. I was heavily involved in both the Music and Theatre program from being involved in chamber choir, performing in operas, to working backstage on costumes and props. After I graduated, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do with my life. As much as I loved performing, I was seeking more meaning in my career. I first heard about music therapy in 2013 while working as a camp counselor at The Center for Discover in Harris, NY. I had heard that The Center had a music therapy program and I was so intrigued! I reached out to one of The Center’s music therapists, who kindly invited me to observe a group music therapy session for children with autism. It only took that one thirty-minute session to be convinced that I needed to be a part of this incredible field! I went on to receive my Master’s of Science in Music Therapy at Nazareth College, where I completed a 6-month internship at Golisano Children’s Hospital.
Spectrum has truly brought a new light to my life and has served as the perfect place for me to start my career. As a professional, I am passionate about making a connection with my students while supporting creativity and self-expression. I am fortunate to have found such an incredibly supportive group of professionals who are just as passionate about helping others as I am!
A few more fun facts about me:
- I have a cat named Oliver and chocolate lab named Sunhui! They are the best!
- I LOVE to cook! Specifically Korean food. I even make my own kimchi J
- I have traveled to 10 different countries! My favorite place I’ve been to so far is Sorrento, Italy.
