We feel very lucky to have the lovely Laura Wentworth, from Wentworth Music in Kelowna, as one of CAT’s AUDIO instructors.

Who are you, and what do you teach at College for Arts and Technology?
My name is Lora Wentworth, and I teach the first quarter Understanding Music For Engineers or UME for short. The class revolves around teaching students the very basics of music theory and how to understand what music is on a technical level.

How long have you been teaching at CAT?
I have been at CAT since January 2013.

What would you say is the most challenging part of teaching your particular class?
I would say the most challenging part about teaching a class is worrying about those students that won’t get help if they need it. This class can be very technical and difficult, so there’s always a concern for those who don’t seek help when they are lost.

What’s the most rewarding part of teaching your particular class?
The most rewarding part is when any of my students who might be having a bit of a hard time, actually get the concepts and are so happy, as well as when they get through the course feeling good about their accomplishments.

How did you get your start in music? When did you start and what’s your background?
I grew up in a very small place called Crawford Bay B.C. There wasn’t much to do there but my parents saw my excitement for the piano and I was able to take lessons at age 12 and then began playing saxophone in grade 10. Eventually I went to college for music and right after began teaching it.

What instruments can you play?
I play Saxophone and piano and can sing some as well.

Can you tell us a bit about Wentworth Music and how it came about?
Wentworth Music began in 1966 with my father-in-law Dale Wentworth, with his parents Walt and Vera Wentworth. It has been operating until now with Dale’s three sons Noel, Neil and Nori all handling various parts of the business. I joined in 1996 as a sales associate and music teacher.
In 2004 Noel and I started the music school part of the business and over those years it has grown from 88 students to over 1100. My primary role there is teaching about 50 students per week.

What advice would you give to new musicians just starting out to get better at their instrument and theory?
The best advice for new musicians is practice and don’t be afraid to explore and try things.
You get what you put into it probably like anything else.

Anything you would like to add?
There was a time that I was worried about making music a profession in my life, that it might not have been a very practical decision. My desire and passion for music won and I have loved what I get to do for a living very day. It has been a pleasure to be here a CAT.

Words by Chris Holmes