Sharyn Worcester

Sharyn Worcester is currently in her first year of graduate studies, pursuing a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a Cognate in Music. With a broad and accomplished career in music education, performance, and adjudication, Sharyn has made significant contributions to the music community throughout Kansas.

Sharyn holds both a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Music Education in Instrumental Conducting from Kansas State University, where she studied under renowned faculty members Dr. Frank Tracz, Director of Bands, and Dr. Jacqueline Fassler-Kerstetter, Associate Professor of Horn. Her passion for education and music led her to a pivotal role as Lead Academic Advisor for the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance at K-State. In this capacity, she guided undergraduate students pursuing degrees in these fields, ensuring their academic success and progress. Sharyn also played an integral role in shaping the academic experience at K-State, contributing to the Music Course and Curriculum Committee, the Music Recruitment Committee, and advising Sigma Alpha Iota, the International Music Fraternity for Women. In 2019, she presented “Music Beyond High School” at the Kansas Music Educators Association In-Service Workshop, offering valuable resources for educators to help students navigate the transition to college music programs or careers.

Before returning to K-State to further her studies, Sharyn spent nine years as the Instrumental Music Director at Junction City High School, where she directed a wide range of ensembles, including marching band, concert band, wind ensemble, and taught music theory, music appreciation, and piano classes. Her leadership in these programs led to performances across Kansas and the United States, including prestigious events such as the Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C., the Fiesta Bowl Parade in Tempe, Arizona, and the Liberty Bowl in Memphis, Tennessee.

Sharyn remains an active performer, playing in the horn sections of both the Manhattan Municipal Band and the Salina Symphony. She is also a frequent contributor to pit orchestras throughout Kansas, most recently performing in the Manhattan Art Center’s production of The Sound of Music.

Sharyn lives in Manhattan with her husband, Ben, their eleven-year-old son, Harley, and their husky/shepherd mix, Riley. She continues to be dedicated to both her academic and professional endeavors, always seeking new ways to inspire and nurture the next generation of musicians.