Ms. Helstad is excited to teach with Band for Today! She has previously taught general music in Chicago, middle school band and choir in Minnesota, and middle school band and choir in Nevada. She also served as an adjunct professor of saxophone at the University of Nevada-Reno for two years before moving back to the Midwest. Ms. Helstad received her Bachelor of Science degree in Instrumental Music Education K-12 from Northwestern College (MN) and her Masters of Music degree in Woodwind Performance (saxophone emphasis) at the University of Idaho-Lionel Hampton School of Music. While at Northwestern College, Ms. Helstad was a member of the Symphonic Band (saxophone section leader, Band President), Jazz Ensemble (lead alto), Women’s Chorale, Chamber Singers, Concert Choir, and Woodwind Quintet (clarinet). At the University of Idaho, Ms. Helstad served as a graduate teaching assistant under Dr. Robert Miller where she taught undergraduate courses in Woodwind Methods, Music Appreciation, Applied Saxophone, and coached undergraduate saxophone quartets. She also was a member of the University of Idaho Wind Ensemble (saxophone section leader), Jazz Ensemble 1 (lead alto), and The University of Idaho Saxophone Quartet (alto and soprano saxophone).

Ms. Helstad’s passion for music education stems from her belief that all children, no matter their background, deserve a quality education…especially music education. Being a part of an ensemble builds skills that all children will need to lead successful lives. Students learn self-discipline, cooperation, teamwork, and build on academic skills. Students also develop a sense of community that will carry them throughout their entire life. Ms. Helstad strives to make each student feel as if they are an integral part of the band family.

Ms. Helstad has been a member of the Northshore Concert Band since 2006 and also teaches private lessons throughout the metro area. When she is not teaching or performing, Ms. Helstad is attending concerts! She enjoys all kinds of music but especially loves jazz and rock. Her favorites include Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Dave Brubeck, U2 and The Who.