Meet Claudia, Your Music Director!

 Claudia Earnest, Music Director
I am  super excited to be able to work with the Fendig family again this year. Being music director for these kids helps to keep me young, well young at heart at least!  I have worked with the summer children's theater program for several years.  I started with the production of Barnum, directed by Kevin Moriarty in 1985.  Then after the birth of twins the next year, I took a few years off. But, when I came back to the theater, I stayed for several productions and our children grew up in the pit and later on stage, singing every song and learning every line. Our family is only 1 phrase away from a musical lyric or song!  I've had the privilege of working with several awesome directors, loving especially the seven year run with Susie Rayburn.  We had extra amounts of fun!  

When not in the pit for the summer, I work as a school counselor at DeMotte Elementary School.  I am just finishing my 27th year there.  Considering that I love working with 5-9 year olds during the school year, working with the Fendig youth is a nice change of pace.  I am a church musician at Trinity United Methodist Church, playing in the handbell choir, playing piano for services, and directing the choir.  I love playing special services for families with weddings or funerals.  Sometimes I can be found behind the awesome new piano at Winamac high school.

I am looking forward to working with Pat Collins and learning from his experience.  He has a wealth of knowledge and is very creative and I know the production will be superior. It's also great to have some young, energetic college adults with us too.  I know the choreography will be exciting and fresh.

I appreciate Fendig Children's Theatre allowing me to be part of many productions. I think I learn more than the children.  Fendig is a special opportunity for Rensselaer youth and I am humbled to have been a part of their rich 40 year history.

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