Faculty Spotlight: A Look at Baldwin’s Performing & Visual Arts Department

At Baldwin, students participate in various artistic activities every day. Some students create beautiful jewelry, stained glass or sculptures, while others work diligently on building sets for the school musical or practice their instruments in preparation for upcoming concerts. Additionally, many students rehearse for chorus or the B-Flats, Baldwin’s award-winning a cappella ensemble. 

 

The arts and the unique expressions that arise from them play a vital role in the student experience at Baldwin, fostering creativity, innovation and a global perspective. Students develop essential skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking and emotional intelligence through music, theater and visual arts. The arts offer opportunities for self-expression and help cultivate teamwork, discipline and leadership skills that extend beyond the classroom.

 

Baldwin's expert faculty teach and actively engage in their respective arts. As practicing artists and musicians, they offer a unique perspective that helps students view their work as a continual process rather than just a finished product. The music education program enhances social skills and academic performance, while theater fosters confidence and collaboration. Additionally, visual arts encourage creative problem-solving and self-reflection. These dynamic arts programs equip students with valuable skills, shaping them into adaptable, empathetic leaders who excel in the classroom and beyond.

 

 

Angela Bensinger - Music Department Chair, Lower School Music Teacher

Boston University - MM

Indiana University of PA - BS

Angela Bensinger serves as the Performing Arts Chair, Lower School Music Teacher and Lower School Choral Director at Baldwin. In her role, she highlights the power of music to spread joy and emotionally connect individuals, regardless of age, language or differences. "I am fortunate that I can build the skills and the foundation for our youngest musicians, so that it creates an interest and excitement in music for years to come," she shares. Angela’s work not only influences the students but also fosters community engagement through assemblies and performances that unite various divisions of the School. Additionally, Angela appreciates the opportunity to connect with parents, allowing them to witness their children’s musical growth and development.

Angela also believes the arts play a crucial role in fostering self-expression and confidence among students. "The arts provide an outlet and a means for expression in a way that supports the student’s strengths and abilities," she explains. Students gain a sense of belonging by participating in group activities such as singing or playing in an ensemble, learning to depend on each other and contributing to a collective effort. This process enhances their teamwork and accountability and boosts their confidence. Moreover, Angela emphasizes the connections between music education and academic performance, noting that music nurtures memory skills, sharpens math abilities and provides an emotional outlet that helps students manage stress. "Every student can find their voice," she affirms, highlighting music's profound impact on personal and academic growth.

           

Kenny Delio - Chair of Visual Arts Department, Art Teacher

University of Delaware - MFA

University of the Arts – BFA

 

Kenny Delio serves as the Visual Arts Department Chair at Baldwin, where he teaches the 3D section of Art 1, all four levels of Sculpture and Ceramics, and is an Advisor to a group of 9th graders. In his role, Kenny emphasizes the development of creativity, problem-solving and confidence in self-expression. "By guiding them in exploring different materials and techniques, I encourage them to take risks and embrace the artistic process," he explains. His classes promote artistic growth and foster a strong sense of community, with students collaborating, sharing ideas and supporting one another. He notes that his role strengthens the arts program at Baldwin while also contributing to a culture of creativity, resilience and personal growth throughout the School.

 

Kenny also highlights the role of the arts in fostering self-confidence and emotional intelligence in students. "The arts help students develop confidence and a strong sense of self by encouraging creative expression, risk-taking and resilience," he says. He views failure as essential to growth, teaching students to adapt and problem-solve when a project doesn’t go as planned. As they create and share their artwork, students build pride in their abilities and strengthen their voices. Kenny further explains how his Art 1 course lays the foundation for students by focusing on technical proficiency, enabling them to express themselves freely in advanced courses. "I guide students by encouraging them to push boundaries while maintaining a solid understanding of form, composition and material," he shares. This balance allows them to develop their unique artistic voice while ensuring their work is well-executed. 

 

Additionally, most projects are student-led, allowing students to discover themselves and their emotions in ways other classes may not offer. By making artistic choices, reflecting on their work and interpreting others' art, they develop empathy, self-awareness and emotional resilience. This practice exercises their minds, strengthening their ability to navigate complex emotions and perspectives — key aspects of emotional intelligence that extend beyond the art studio into all areas of life.

 

 

Ben Dibble - Middle and Upper School Theater Teacher

The University of the Arts – BFA

 

Ben Dibble serves as the Drama teacher for both Upper and Middle School at Baldwin, teaching all Drama classes from Grade 6 through 12. He also directs an Upper School and Middle School musical each year. Ben believes his work provides "a space to entertain our community and hopefully provoke thoughtful conversations about the shows we do and the themes they contain." Through his teaching and direction, he creates opportunities for students to engage with the arts, enhancing the cultural and intellectual fabric of the Baldwin community.

 

"The arts are essential for developing a sense of confidence with speaking in public and the ability to collaborate with diverse personalities," he explains. Students work together in his performing arts classes on public-facing performances, learning to trust their skills, instincts and preparation. Ben also sees theatre as a powerful tool for fostering empathy, leadership and communication. "Theatre is the most collaborative art form there is," he states, noting that it asks musicians, visual artists, producers, writers, actors, dancers and designers to work together toward a common goal. This collaboration cultivates strong communication and leadership skills, making theatre a "constant leadership workshop." One of the most rewarding aspects of Ben’s work is seeing students embrace their authentic selves, express their unique viewpoints and contribute to a joyful, diverse group dynamic. "There is nothing better!" he says, reflecting on his fulfillment in helping students grow personally and artistically.

 

 

Lee Hagon-Kerr – Upper School Music Teacher

The Hartt School - MA

Westminster Choir College – BA

 

Lee Hagon-Kerr teaches Upper School Chorus, Harmony & Creative Writing, and she directs the award-winning a cappella group, The B-Flats. Her work extends beyond the classroom, impacting Baldwin students in various ways. "Our musicians impact life at Baldwin in so many ways," she notes, whether performing the Alma Mater at assemblies, representing the School through competitions and international tours, or lending their talents to Wyss Interdisciplinary Institute projects. Music classes are integral to Baldwin, fostering pride, unity and excellence among students while enhancing the school's vibrant culture.

 

In addition to the technical and creative skills students develop through music education, Lee emphasizes the personal growth that the arts foster. Performing arts "help our students stand tall and strong on stage," teaching them to announce pieces and be mindful of their stage presence confidently. The confidence required to perform in front of an audience is a significant challenge that helps students build self-assurance. She also highlights the importance of creating a sense of community within music ensembles, stating, "It doesn't take long for a Baldwin music ensemble to feel more like a family than a class." This supportive environment not only cultivates strong social and teamwork skills but also contributes to the academic success of her students. “Music-making is a whole brain activity and serves our students well in a wide variety of ways,” she explains. “It never surprises me to see my music students excel in other areas as well, often receiving academic accolades throughout their tenure at Baldwin.”

 

 

Dr. Oxana Harlamova - Orchestra Director & Baldwin Conservatory Director

Academy of Music G. Musicescu, Chisinau, Moldova - PhD, MA

Rachmaninov Music Lyceum, Chisinau, Moldova – BA

 

Dr. Oxana Harlamova’s teaching spans various grade levels and musical disciplines, from Lower School general music to Middle and Upper School Orchestra and Instrumental Ensembles. Oxana fosters a love of music in her students, nurturing an appreciation that extends beyond the classroom and influences their academic, social and emotional development. Her classes, including Lower School Ensemble "Crescendo" and Upper School Instrumental Ensemble, provide students with opportunities to connect with each other and develop a lifelong passion for music that enhances their personal growth.

 

In Oxana’s view, the arts play a beautiful and transformative role in helping students discover who they are. She believes engaging in creative activities such as music, dance and art allows students to express their emotions and ideas in ways that words cannot always capture. "Art also teaches students that it’s okay to make mistakes," she notes, emphasizing that creating offers valuable learning opportunities. Whether it's a missed note or a painting that didn’t turn out as expected, the arts encourage students to embrace imperfection and view each attempt as a step toward growth. Through these creative expressions, students also experience a deep sense of pride in what they’ve created, whether it's a song, painting or performance, which strengthens their sense of self. Furthermore, Oxana observes that music education significantly enhances students' social and teamwork skills. In ensemble settings, students learn to listen to one another, collaborate and provide constructive feedback, building trust and respect within the group. The collaborative nature of music also fosters a sense of community, where each student’s contribution is valued, reinforcing the importance of teamwork.

 

“I've observed some truly inspiring connections between music education and academic performance in students,” Oxana explains. “Music requires strong concentration, memory and problem-solving — crucial skills for mastering academic subjects. Learning to read music, memorize pieces and stay in sync with a group requires a high level of attention and discipline, which translates into better focus in the classroom.”

 

 

Adam Kishbauch – Middle and Upper School Music Teacher

Westminster Choir College - MME

Rutgers University – BA

 

Adam Kishbauch teaches Middle School General Music, Chorus and Handbells, and directs the Upper School Handbells Ensembles, "Belles" and "Bronze." As a Middle and Upper School music teacher, Adam believes in offering students a safe space to explore concepts that allow them to express themselves "confidently and unapologetically." His ensembles provide a structured outlet for students to share their artistic gifts with the Baldwin community, offering numerous performance and concert opportunities. For Adam, music education is not just about technical skills but also about helping students grow as individuals and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

 

Adam sees the arts as a vital first step in self-discovery. "Being able to interact with a creative medium that speaks to you both actively and passively is the best way to learn about yourself," he explains. He fosters a classroom dynamic where students can connect personally, promoting pride in their individuality. By celebrating their and others' differences, students gain confidence in who they are and how they contribute to the world. “It’s important to hear what the students love about music because it helps to identify what direction the class should go in terms of what will be the most meaningful use of our time in the realm of music and creativity,” he explains. Adam also emphasizes the collaborative nature of music education, noting that music classes are a "collective team effort" from the very first day. Through participation in performance ensembles, students learn personal responsibility and how to support one another, building a strong sense of community within the group.

           

 

Jessica Konopka – Middle School Art Teacher

Pennsylvania Western University - MA

Pennsylvania State University - BFA, BS

 

Jessica Konopka teaches Middle School art for Grades 6-8 and offers graphic arts electives for 7th and 8th graders. Additionally, she serves as the advisor for the Middle School Arts League and the coordinator for the Middle School Yearbook. Through these various roles, Jessica explains, "By giving them opportunities to explore art, I contribute to a positive, creative atmosphere at Baldwin, where students can develop their skills, express themselves and take pride in their artistic accomplishments." Her work helps create an environment where students feel empowered to explore their creativity and build confidence in their artistic abilities.

 

Jessica believes that exploration is key in Middle School. "The arts provide an excellent way for students to experiment with new materials and ideas," she says. Through creative expression, students discover their unique voices and talents, enhancing their confidence and deepening their understanding of themselves and the world around them. In her classroom, Jessica emphasizes both self-expression and technical skill development. "Each project comes with specific technical goals, so they learn essential skills," she notes. By balancing creative freedom with skill-building lessons, students are able to express themselves while refining their abilities. Jessica also sees the visual arts as a way for students to develop emotional intelligence, providing "a safe space for students to explore and process their emotions." Through painting, drawing and other art forms, students have a meaningful way to express and communicate their feelings.

 

 

Mira Ramchandani – Upper School Art Teacher

Tyler School of Art - MFA

Pratt Institute – BFA

 

Mira Ramchandani teaches Upper School Jewelry and Glass and Fibers classes, providing students with a broad range of artistic mediums to explore their individuality. Through these classes, students are empowered to express themselves uniquely, learning various techniques while discovering their artistic voices. By offering such diverse artistic experiences, she fosters a creative environment where students can experiment and grow.

 

Mira believes the arts are pivotal in helping students develop self-confidence and emotional intelligence. "Arts challenge students in different, individual ways," she says, noting that creativity is central to every art exercise. She runs her classroom like an art studio, engaging students in hands-on activities as they work on projects. "As they learn to hand-saw through metal and use a drill press, it empowers them to conquer their hesitation and fears." This process, which often involves getting "dirty" and embracing the messiness of creation, helps students overcome challenges and build confidence in their abilities. The students start off with an Art 1 rotation in which they learn basic 2-D/ 3-D craft and design. This is followed by Art 2, where these skills are reinforced. As students progress, they showcase more creative latitude by making more intricate and personal choices in their work. Mira also highlights the emotional benefits of art, explaining that individual projects provide a "safe space and mediums to explore and express their feelings," which fosters self-confidence and empathy as students share their experiences with others.

 

 

Andre Teixeira - Lower School Art Teacher

Arcadia University - MEd

Holy Family University – BA

 

Andre Teixeira teaches Art to Grades Pre-K - 5 in Lower School. As he explains, "It's my hope that teaching art helps empower students to foster their own creativity, self-expression and confidence." His efforts aim to develop artistic skills and inspire students to feel confident in their individuality while working together as a community.

 

Andre also sees the arts as a powerful tool for emotional development, particularly for girls and young women. "I believe the arts help provide that space for girls and young women to explore identities, emotions and perspectives in a supportive environment," he says, emphasizing the role of art in challenging societal expectations. He encourages students to use their voices as they navigate their expression. Andre guides students in balancing self-expression with technical skills and structure in his classroom by creating a space in his studio that nurtures creativity and discipline. Through open-ended projects, personal themes, self-reflection, peer feedback and structured lessons, he encourages growth and emphasizes the value of progress over perfection. "Thematic projects, journaling or simply integrating some reflective discussions in class can further strengthen students' emotional intelligence," he notes, underscoring the importance of art in cultivating emotional awareness and communication.

 

 

Rachel Van Wylen - Painting, Drawing and Art History Teacher

New York Academy of Art - MFA
Gordon College - BA

 

Rachel Van Wylen teaches Drawing, Painting and Art History at Baldwin, and she also supports the Arts League, which organizes events like the Arts Jubilee. Her role extends beyond the classroom as she strives to create spaces where students can explore self-expression and share their ideas with a broader audience. "I want the arts to feel accessible for all students," she explains. Events like the whimsical Black Cat Art Competition during Halloween reflect this effort to make the arts an inclusive and engaging experience. Through these events, Rachel fosters confidence and connection, helping students feel empowered and supported in their artistic endeavors.

 

Rachel believes that the arts offer students a way to uncover a creative voice they might not have known existed. "Confidence builds not just through making art but also through sharing it," she says. Seeing their work connect with others can be profoundly affirming, helping students realize that their ideas and emotions are understood and shared by others. Technical skills, she notes, play an essential role in expanding self-expression by providing students with the tools needed to convey their ideas more effectively. "Technical skill and self-expression aren’t at odds; they’re deeply intertwined," she observes, highlighting that the motivation to express oneself can drive the desire to learn new skills. Additionally, Rachel emphasizes that the arts cultivate emotional intelligence by inviting students to engage with their own emotions and fostering empathy for others. "When we create, we’re offering a glimpse of ourselves to others, both now and in the future," she reflects, noting that both creating and studying art deepen our understanding of what it means to be human.

 

 

Eliza Whitney - Graphic Design Teacher

University of the Arts - BS

 

At Baldwin, Eliza Whitney teaches Digital Art, Graphic Design and Digital Photography, blending creativity with technology to help students express themselves visually while developing essential digital skills. "I see myself as a teacher of both the right- and left-brained — encouraging artistic exploration while also fostering problem-solving and analytical thinking," she says. Her classes challenge students to think critically about design, composition and storytelling in the digital age. Through these courses, students explore their identities, perspectives and creative voices, helping them develop a strong sense of self. Eliza emphasizes that creative projects enable students to express their thoughts, emotions and unique viewpoints, which fosters self-awareness and personal growth.

 

Eliza also believes mastering technical skills and new digital tools is crucial in building students' confidence. "Seeing their ideas come to life — whether through a compelling photo, a well-designed graphic or a digital artwork — gives them a sense of accomplishment," she explains. As students solve design challenges and receive constructive feedback, they learn resilience and adaptability, reinforcing their belief in their potential. Eliza guides her students by encouraging them to explore their creative ideas while teaching them the technical skills needed to bring them to life. She helps them refine their work through feedback and critiques, balancing artistic expression and technical execution. "By analyzing and creating artwork, they learn to communicate feelings, navigate challenges and respond thoughtfully to feedback," Eliza says.