New England Conservatory of Music - Neume Yearbook (Boston, MA)

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William McKim Business Manager Joan Coleman Literary

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Those who have had the privilege of studying under Mrs. Whitney have known best the vitality, understanding, and wisdom of all she imparts . But innumerable others have felt, without knowing it perhaps, the effect of her presence at the Conservatory. Born in New York City, brought up in Yonkers, Mrs. Whitney graduated from Rus- sell Sage College in Troy, New York with a Bachelors degree in science. At the same time, she earned a diploma in music from the Emma Willard Conservatory. She then returned to Yonkers where she taught in the public schools until December of that year, when she won a voice contest which sent her to Italy for two years of study and performance in opera. In 1928 she married William L. Whitney who was for many years a member of the New England Conservatory faculty. Mrs. Whitney herself later entered the Conservatory and earned her Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education in 1940. Her Master ' s de- gree from Harvard University followed in 1947. Mrs. Whitney taught music in the public schools of Quincy, Massachusetts, later joining the faculty of the New England Conservatory in the Music Education Depart- ment. In 1950 she was made Chairman of the department. What does one notice first about Mrs. Whitney? Her vitality, of course. Who could miss it? And what do we learn to appreciate? Her boundless enthusiasm, her sense of humor, her unfailing loyalty to the students, and the generosity with which she gives of herself and her time to Conservatory activities. In 1955 she was made director of place- ment heading the newly established Placement Bureau. In this capacity, she has contrib- uted invaluable knowledge and support to the Conservatory. She has also been a member of Faculty Council for several years, a very important position. What is it we will especially remember about her? Can any conducting student forget plunko her favorite method of cut off? Can any Music Ed. student forget the vigorous renditions of Gray Squirrel and other rote songs? And how many students have drawn their coats around them tighter wh6n she started opening windows ? Who — no matter what his major — can forget the peculiar strains of Music Ed. Band floating down to the cafeteria every Friday noon? This group, however terrible it may sound, is one of Mrs. Whitney ' s pet projects, and it has done much to increase the students ' pro- ficiency on their secondary instruments. Who that has known her teaching can ever forget it? The vigor, aptness, inspiration, and the good common sense which lift her teaching from the usual to the unusual have sent hundreds of music educators into the field, confident, assured and thoroughly equip- ped. Who that has ever known her friendship can ever forget it? No problem is ever too big or too trifling to take to Mrs. Whitney. Somehow she will always find the time to hear each one through and to offer what she feels is a solution. The warmth of this friend- ship which enfolds us during our college years, remains to welcome us back again and again, and it follows us all the days of our teaching careers. It is with great affection and admiration that the Class of 1958 humbly and grate- fully dedicates this yearbook to you, Mrs. Whitney.

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