Dr. Kay Shuart Ladányi is a seasoned music educator with over 45 years of experience, spanning from preschool to university levels across multiple states including Kansas, Texas, Illinois, Maine, and California. Recently, she returned to her hometown of Wichita, Kansas, after teaching in California for 28 years.
Dr. Ladányi’s educational background is extensive. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education and a Bachelor of Art in Applied Music/Flute Performance from Washburn University, a Master of Music Education with a focus on Flute Performance from Wichita State University, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Music Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Throughout her career, Dr. Ladányi has taught a wide range of music courses, including instrumental music, music theory, music history, and music appreciation. She has also been involved in developing innovative music programs, such as a Music Theory class for elementary school students and a Fundamentals of Music course for general education students at the university level.
Dr. Ladányi’s expertise extends beyond the classroom. She has served as a flute clinician and judge for various state music associations and school districts. She has also performed as a flutist and conductor in numerous ensembles, demonstrating her passion for both music education and performance.
In addition to her teaching and performance activities, Dr. Ladányi has contributed to music education research. Her doctoral dissertation focused on the creative processes of high school students using computer and synthesizer workstations for music composition.