December Teacher Spotlight: Gretchen & Ed Zunic

This month we are highlighting Gretchen and Ed Zunic, they are both orchestra teachers for the Upper Arlington School District. Gretchen and Ed both have an extensive history with teaching and playing. These two are great at what they do and Upper Arlington is lucky to have them!

What city do you currently teach in?

G & E: Upper Arlington, Ohio

What instruments do you play/ teach?

G: I perform mostly on violin & viola, but teach cello and bass at school as well.

E: My primary instruments are cello and bass, but in the school setting, I teach all of the string instruments.

How did your career in music get started?

G: I arrived at BGSU in 1987 intending to major in elementary education and minoring in music but was quickly informed that I had to choose. I decided to major in music education and never looked back.

E: In 4th grade, I wanted to do what Yo Yo Ma was doing.

What’s your favorite song to play?

G: I don’t have a favorite song, but I enjoy playing with our quartet at weddings. I miss playing in an orchestra and will do that again once my daughter is in college.

E: “I got a feelin’” (Black Eyed Peas), has a killer cello part, and it was arranged by my friend, Dr. Charles Laux.

What other hobbies besides music do you have?

G: I love to read and wish I had more time. My husband and I are also runners and enjoy competing in half-marathons. 

E: I like to run, bike, swim, and lift weights.

What has been your favorite moment as a teacher?

G: I enjoy watching students grow over the years. One of the nice things about teaching students for multiple years is the relationships you build. Next summer we will play at the weddings of three former students!!

E: Watching my daughter become an independent musician.

What do you find to be the best motivator for students?

G: I think success breeds success. We really work to ensure that our students have positive experiences in orchestra. We have also found that musical trips are a great motivator.

E: Success. Once one of our students is successful with a skill, they tend to seek additional successes.

What are your future goals as a musician and teacher?

E: To become an old musician, and retired teacher.

Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?

E: Work on your craft, and when you’re done, work some more.

Fun fact?

G & E: We're both members of The Columbus String Quartet.