2021 RHS grad receives WMEA Gaarder Award

Current UW Milwaukee Senior, and former Rhinelander High School and Zion Lutheran School student, Bridget Koser is this year’s recipient of the Wisconsin Music Educators Association’s Richard G. Gaarder Award.

Koser is one of two senior undergraduate Music Education students across the state of Wisconsin to receive this honor, presented to students who embody dedication to music education in their academic environments, communities, and beyond, according to a press release announcing the honor.

A portion of Koser’s personal statement from her nomination was highlighted and quoted during the presentation of the award: “I am a firm believer that all students deserve a quality education rooted in a positive learning environment, where students can feel free to explore challenging materials and achieve their goals. Music when studied is also meant to be enjoyed.”

Koser will graduate with a BFA degree in Music Education along with a minor in Mathematics and a triple certification in choral, instrumental, and general music. Currently, she is UWM CNAfME President and Assistant Choral Director for UWM’s Alta Voce choir.

“I am extremely grateful for the recognition I have received based on my hard work and dedication, not only in the UW-Milwaukee Music Ed Department, but also in my growth as a musician and educator. I thank those who have guided and supported me at UW-Milwaukee, at home in Rhinelander, and every educator who has led me to the journey I am on.”