Background

Professor Fanshier began her formal music studies at the age of seven. Growing up, she learned piano, clarinet, saxophone, and bass guitar. Beginning in middle school, she began playing in solo competitions, joined the Tacoma Youth Symphony Association, and her church’s praise band.

Professor Fanshier went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in music performance from PLU. After her undergraduate studies, she married her husband, Marc. While working as a police dispatcher, professor Fanshier played with the Washington Wind Symphony. Shortly after the birth of their son, professor Fanshier was laid off and opened her own private music lesson studio.

While teaching private lessons, professor Fanshier became active with the music programs around her, volunteering in the Tahoma, Kent, and Auburn school districts, as well as joining the staff of the Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra, where she is the current conductor. Professor Fanshier also holds a permanent position with the Olympia Symphony Orchestra and the BachFest Orchestra. Her students encouraged her to look into teaching college level music, so she began her master’s studies and will earn her master’s degree in orchestral conducting this July.

Naomi Fanshier comes to NU with experience in teaching music, performing music, conducting, and building/running a thriving instrumental ensemble program.

Interests

Naomi enjoys playing golf and hiking with her husband, Marc, and son, Carter. She also likes crafting, baking, reading, and animals.