Instrument/Department: Expressive Arts Department Chair; Internship Director
Joined Hochstein faculty in: 2017; named Department Chair in June 2019
Jennifer Phillips is a board-certified music therapist and neurologic music therapist specializing in early intervention, elder care, and neurorehabilitation. She holds degrees in music therapy and voice from Fredonia State University and is also a certified early childhood music educator.
Jennifer relocated back to the Rochester area in 2017 after spending 6 years in private practice in Williamsburg, Virginia. Since her return to Rochester, she has co-founded the Greater Rochester Area Music Therapy Peer Supervision Group and is a founding member of and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) representative for the New York State Association for Music Therapy. She currently serves as a faculty representative on the Hochstein board and also hosts Hochstein’s Equity Roundtable.
Jennifer is a soprano and sings professionally throughout the Rochester area. She is a member of Concentus Women’s Chorus and past member of Eastman-Rochester Chorus, Williamsburg Bach Choir, and Cantori Choral Ensemble. She has appeared in guest performances with the Rochester Oratorio Society and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Along with her work as a vocalist, music therapist, administrator, and educator, she is mom to two children, both of whom study at Hochstein.
More About Jennifer Phillips
Hometown: Farmington Hills, MI
What inspires me: Passionate people. The people I admire most and am most inspired by are the ones who dedicate themselves to their craft, whatever it may be!
Why the arts matter: The arts touch people in indescribable ways. They are the heart and soul of the community. They are the foundation of cultures, of community, of commonality. The arts, quite simply, bring people together. They inspire us. They enrich our lives. They bring us joy.
Favorite things to do in Rochester area: I love being outdoors! My family and I spend quite a bit of time exploring the beautiful parks and hiking trails the Rochester area has to offer. And we love the Strong Museum!
When I’m not at Hochstein, you can find me: At home with my husband and children – likely reading, baking, or crafting!
My favorite local restaurant: The Owl House
Favorite place(s) to travel: New Hampshire, Adirondacks, Virginia, Outer Banks.
Favorite Composer: Morten Lauridsen
What people would be surprised to know about me: I eat gluten free by necessity and mainly vegetarian by choice. I love trying out new recipes and can often be found in my kitchen baking (read: burning) cookies with my kids!