| Sister Lorna M. Zemke (b.1933) was among the first generation of Americans to be trained in the Hungarian system of music education that is often called the Kodaly concept. Zemke designed the music education curriculum at Silver Lake College, Manitowoc, Wisconsin, to focus on Kodaly principles. She has chaired the Department of Music and directs the graduate music programs. Additionally, since 1984, Zemke directs a large early childhood music program including Music for Tots and Lovenotes: Music for the Unborn. Professional music organizations have honored Zemke for her service, which includes published articles and books on a variety of aspects of music education for people from prenatal children and their parents to university-level students.;This analysis reveals that Zemke's service to general music education, particularly among Kodaly practitioners, is felt throughout North America and internationally. Her contributions to music for young children include a community-based preschool music program offered at several Wisconsin locations, and a prenatal music program in Manitowoc. In all of her work she joins with members of multiple communities: Catholic educators, music educators, and families of young children. In doing so, Zemke carries the message of music education as one aspect of her service to God. These communities, in return, consider Zemke a valued member and acknowledge her contributions.;Zemke, a woman of energy and determination, embraces a vision of education that promotes music-making throughout the human lifespan. She influences others in her cause of music for everyone through teaching, speaking, demonstrating, and writing. Despite international recognition for her work, Zemke remains known by many simply as "Sister Lorna.".;This study examines Zemke's life and her contributions to general music education as a teacher, clinician, author, and curriculum innovator. Research methodologies include in-depth interviews; a content analysis of Zemke's published writings, a review of archival sources including all previously published interviews, and an examination of the influences on the development of Zemke's music programs for young children. Aspects of these early childhood music programs are described including their history, curriculum, adaptations, and current status in 2009. |
