Lori Gooding, ’95, (Bachelor of Music in Music Education) is Associate Professor of Music Therapy and the Area Coordinator of the Music Education/Music Therapy Department at Florida State University. We recently caught up with Lori to ask her some questions about her time at the USC School of Music.
Why did you choose the USC School of Music?
I chose USC because I wanted an affordable education that provided a variety of opportunities that would help me grow as a musician and as a person.
What ensembles were you a member of while at USC?
Carolina Band; Chamber Ensemble(s); Concocktion Basketball Pep Band; Left Bank Big Band; USC Campus Orchestra; USC Symphonic Winds; USC Symphony Orchestra; USC Wind Ensemble
What person, course or experience was most influential for you while at the School of Music?
As a trombonist, I studied with William (Bill) Zehfuss while I was a student at USC. Bill, who is now deceased, was a lovely human, and I will always be grateful for my time with him. I will remember his kindness, the dates assigned in the Arban book, the long tones and buzzing, and sharing a stand as high as my head with him. (He was very tall, and I am not!) Most importantly, I will remember the "other" lessons he taught me--perseverance, commitment, fairness, professionalism, and what it looks like to be a supportive faculty member.
How has your education at the USC School of Music helped you in your life and career?
My undergraduate degree at USC was the foundation for my future degrees in music, and my time at USC strongly influenced my desire to pursue a career in higher education. I also formed lifelong relationships through the USC School of Music, and the people I met as a student still play an important role in my life today.
What is one of your favorite memories, classes, professors or activities while attending the School of Music?
While at USC, I was able to teach private lessons, adjudicate band clinics, and work as a student teacher. These opportunities not only helped me develop my own teaching skills but also allowed me to teach and mentor younger students. It was through these experiences that I truly developed my love of teaching.
What advice would you give current students or recent graduates pursuing a music performance or music education career?
The skills that you learn in music can and will take you in directions you cannot always anticipate, so stay open to possibilities. Use what you have learned as a music major‚ perseverance, commitment, collaboration, and most importantly, finding a path that allows you to do what you love, to guide you as you move forward.
What is one of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating from the School of Music in which your education played a role?
Since 2020, I have served the American Music Therapy Association on the Board of Directors as President Elect (2020-2021), President (2021-2023), and Past President (2024-2025). My term has been one of great transition that has come with many challenges, but we also have accomplished substantive change in our association, including implementing an historic dues structure overhaul and securing a $326,000 grant from the Music Man Foundations for a new website. I am both proud and grateful for the experience.
Do you have any recent career changes, accomplishments, awards, major life events, etc. you would like to share?
In 2022, I was a Fulbright Scholar with the Universiti Putra Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. As part of this award, I worked with colleagues to build a foundation for the first music therapy degree program in the country of Malaysia.
You can learn more about Lori at https://music.fsu.edu/person/lori-gooding/