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Karma Tomm
Director, Sistema Kingston
Professional Background
Karma Tomm is an accomplished Music Director with an extensive background in the higher education sector. With a rich experience in performing arts, orchestrated music, and music education, Karma has made significant contributions to the field of music through teaching, directing, and mentoring aspiring musicians. Renowned for her expertise in classical music and audio recording, she has successfully blended theory with practice in various educational settings, creating an enriching environment for students looking to enhance their musical abilities. A passionate advocate for music education, she has held significant leadership roles, paving the way for innovative programs that inspire the next generation of performers.
Education and Achievements
Karma's educational journey is as impressive as her professional career. She earned her Master of Music (M. Mus.) degree with a focus on Performance and a minor in Jazz Studies from the prestigious Indiana University Bloomington, a program known for its rigorous curriculum and strong emphasis on practical performance skills. This academic foundation paved the way for her career in music education and performance. Prior to her master's degree, she studied at McGill University, where she obtained her Bachelor of Music (B. Mus.) in Violin Performance. This solid educational background has equipped her with comprehensive skills in both classical and contemporary music.
Throughout her career, Karma has demonstrated a commitment to fostering musical talent and passion among her students. As the Founding Director of the Sistema Kingston program at Queen's University, she has played a pivotal role in creating inclusive musical initiatives that focus on social change through music. Her leadership has not only shaped the curriculum but has also significantly enhanced the community's engagement with music education. Her role as Chamber Music Coordinator at the Dan School of Drama and Music further underscores her commitment to developing innovative programs that nurture chamber musicians and aspiring artists alike.
Notable Positions
Karma Tomm has held several high-profile academic positions that reflect her dedication to music education. Notably, she has served as a Lecturer in Violin and Chamber Music at the Dan School of Drama and Music at Queen's University. In her role as Director of Queen's Community Music (formerly Queen's Conservatory of Music), she expanded the institution's outreach and community offerings, helping students of all ages discover the joys of music-making. Her past role as the String Coordinator at Queen's University School of Music allowed her to develop specialized programs that strengthen string performance skills among students.
Earlier in her career, she contributed to Tufts University’s Department of Music as the Coordinator of Applied Music and as a Lecturer in violin, chamber music, and music theory. This diverse range of experiences across several respected institutions underscores her dynamic teaching style and commitment to student success. Through her various roles, Karma has cultivated a reputation for academic excellence and a supportive, student-centered approach to education.
In all her endeavors, Karma is known not only for her exceptional skills as a musician and educator but also for her dedication to enhancing the cultural fabric of her community. She has continuously sought ways to encourage collaboration among musicians and foster a love for music that resonates with students and audiences alike.