Also Serving As

• Music Department Chair

Background

Dr. Naomi Fanshier is the Director and Founder of the Chamber Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, and Drum Line at Northwest University (NU) in Kirkland, WA. With her passion for music and unwavering dedication, she has also taken on the role of Wind Ensemble Director and Music Department Chair at NU, leading her students towards excellence in various musical disciplines.

At NU, Dr. Fanshier has crafted a multifaceted teaching repertoire, encompassing courses such as Conducting, Music History, Basic Computer Notation, Music and Culture, Foundations of Teaching Music, and Survey of Cinematic Music. Embracing the evolving landscape of education, she further pioneered an online music theory course to expand the reach of her knowledge and expertise beyond the classroom walls. Collaborating with colleagues in theatre, worship ministry, sound design, and music production, she continually seeks to present students and audiences with unique and unforgettable musical experiences.

Outside of NU, Dr. Fanshier extends her passion for music into the local K-12 instrumental programs, volunteering her time to nurture the musical talents of younger generations. As a testament to her commitment to fostering musical growth in her community, she also serves as the Music Director of the Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra (MVYSO). Under her skillful baton, the top orchestra at MVYSO has flourished, setting a high standard for the organization’s musical development.

Dr. Fanshier’s ongoing research delves into exploring how music can be used for service-learning and to benefit others. By imparting her knowledge and teaching her students to give back through their musical talents, she aims to create a positive impact and foster a sense of purpose in her pupils.

As a conductor, Dr. Fanshier has garnered admiration for her exceptional programming and collaborative prowess. Demonstrating a unique gift for blending contemporary, pop, and classical standards, her performances leave both audiences and musicians captivated and eager for more. With a particular fascination for cinematic scores, she orchestrates unforgettable concert experiences that merge the magic of music with the visual allure of movies and television shows. One such remarkable event, “A Night at the Movies,” showcased 27 movie, video game, and TV show themes synchronized with corresponding videos, captivating audiences of all ages.

Beyond conducting, Dr. Fanshier possesses exceptional arranging skills, creating pieces tailored to odd instrumentation, chamber music, student musicians, and pop music for classical ensembles. Her expertise extends to her performances as a freelance clarinetist in orchestras, musicals, ballets, and chamber music concerts.

Dr. Fanshier’s academic journey commenced with a Bachelor’s degree in Clarinet Performance from Pacific Lutheran University. She then pursued a Master’s degree in Orchestral Conducting from Messiah University and culminated her academic pursuits with a Doctorate of Music Education from Liberty University. She is an active member of the College Orchestra Directors Association, College Band Directors National Association, and the National Association for Music Education.