Finding Harmony in Virtual Music Education

From the stages of New York to North Carolina classrooms, Dogwood Virtual School’s new music teacher, Jaime Schumer, brings a lifetime of passion, performance, and perseverance to her virtual students. 

A Lifelong Love of Music

For Ms. Schumer, music has never been just a subject – it’s been the soundtrack of her life. 

“I’ve been a performing musician for 27 years,” she said proudly. “That’s my claim to fame.” 

Originally from New York, Ms. Schumer spent her early career performing in bands, including a popular funk group called “Jason Yudoff and the New Hotness”. 

 “We played at every best club in New York City,” she recalled. “But you quickly learn the music business is cutthroat – it’s not always about talent, it’s who you know.” 

Eventually, Ms. Schumer found her way to Wilmington, North Carolina, where the vibrant arts scene and laid-back lifestyle offered a new rhythm. 

Discovering the Power of Music in Healing 

Before teaching full-time, Ms. Schumer worked in a hospital using music to help patients who were recovering from traumatic brain injuries, strokes, and spinal cord injuries. 

“I really saw the power of music in that field,” she said. “Even when patients couldn’t speak, they could connect through song. It was incredible.” 

That experience shaped how she views music education today. “Music is so much more than notes and rhythm. It’s therapy, it’s communication, it’s connection.” 

From the Classroom Cart to the Virtual Stage 

After earning her teaching license, Ms. Schumer spent several years in elementary classrooms. Sometimes – quite literally – on wheels. 

“I was the music teacher on a cart,” she laughed. “I’d pack up xylophones and recorders, roll from class to class, and try not to cry in the elevator when things fell off!” 

Despite the challenges, Ms. Schumer built thriving music programs wherever she went. “I wanted to create something I could be proud of,” she said. “I had 700 students and even started a choir with 101 kids singing in harmony.” 

When her district couldn’t provide a dedicated music room, she knew it was time for a change. “Everything happens for a reason,” she said. “That’s how I found Dogwood Virtual School.” 

Teaching Music Virtually 

Now teaching high school students virtually, Ms. Schumer leads classes in Music Appreciation – and she’s proving that even online, music can bring people together. 

“I’m a relationship-first teacher,” she said. “You’ve got to reach them to teach them.” 

She connects with students by learning their favorite artists and weaving their music into lessons. “I’ll ask, ‘What bands do you love?’ Then I find ways to tie that into music history or composition.” 

She also incorporates interactive tools such as virtual keyboards, note-reading games, and online platforms like YouTube and Spotify. “There’s a virtual instrument for everything,” she said. “And with the right tech, you can make music from anywhere.” 

A Fresh Perspective on the Virtual Classroom 

“I used to teach out of a closet with no windows,” she said. “Now I have sunlight, a quiet space, and time with my daughter. My energy is so much better.” 

And as for connecting with students who are sometimes shy on camera? Ms. Schumer meets them where they are. 

“I can’t force them to turn on their cameras, but I can make class a place they want to be,” she said. “Once they see that I’m here for them, and that music can be fun, they start to open up.” 

As she continues to build the music program at DVS, Ms. Schumer is focused on one thing: making sure every student finds their voice. 

Looking Ahead 

“Music gives students confidence,” she said. “Even in a virtual world, we can still create harmony together.” 

Ms. Schumer’s passion for music and her “no guts, no glory” approach are helping shape a new generation of digital musicians, one note – and one Zoom screen – at a time. 

Is Online Learning Right for Your Family? 

Explore Dogwood Virtual School and discover how our online programs can empower your child to thrive, graduate early, and achieve their goals sooner. Click here to get started today! 

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