DIRECTOR, Piano/Voice/Ukulele/Early Childhood Programs
ally@schoolfortheartsHP.com

Ally Larsen has been singing and making music since early childhood. Throughout adolescence, she received private piano instruction in both classical and jazz studies, played on the worship team at church, and performed in musical theatre and choir.

Ally went on to receive her B.A. at North Central College in Naperville, IL where she continued formal instruction in piano as well as vocal studies and music composition. In addition to studying music, she also studied digital communications and gained experience in video/audio editing and recording. Her two worlds of music and media collided when she interned for a music licensing company in Chicago, learning about sonic branding and scoring for film and commercials.

Presently, Ally is a Co-Arts director at The Church at HighPoint in Romeoville, IL. Using her musical talents for worship has brought depth and meaning to making music.

In 2017, she began teaching both private and group lessons in piano, voice, and ukulele and has mentored a multitude of learning styles. In 2020, she began teaching early childhood music classes that incorporate movement and play. Ally hopes to bring her found joy for music to other eager minds on their musical journey.

ADMINISTRATOR, Visual Arts Programs
abby@schoolfortheartsHP.com

Abby’s passion for art has been a driving force in her life since childhood. From drawing and painting to sculpting, art has always been more than just a hobby, it’s been her way of expressing herself and exploring the world. Over the years, she has developed her skills through a combination of formal art classes and self-guided learning, constantly growing as a creator.

After dedicating over eight years at Starbucks, Abby felt a deep calling to leave the corporate world behind and pursue something that felt more meaningful. As someone who grew up in poverty, Abby understands the struggle of having big dreams but lacking the resources to make them a reality. This personal experience ignited a passion within her to help others—especially children—access the creative opportunities they deserve.

Abby’s mission is clear: to help kids bring their artistic dreams to life. She believes that every child, no matter their background, should have the chance to explore their creativity and develop their artistic talents. Abby is dedicated to supporting the next generation of young artists, helping them turn their passions into real possibilities.

Woodwinds/Early Brass

Jen Rutherford has been playing the flute since 5th grade. Her parents were both music teachers, so Jen decided she did not want to do that when she headed to Augustana College! But, in the middle of sophomore year, she couldn't resist and ended up earning a B.A. in Music Education and a B.A. in Flute Performance.

Jen taught beginning and middle school band in Plainfield #202 for seven years before moving into college ministry for over 15 years, where she continued to play at university functions and work with student worship teams. Jen is currently the Business Manager at Joliet Montessori School and gets to mix business with special classroom music opportunities. She is thrilled to be part of the School for the Arts and looks forward to building relationships with students, encouraging them in their personal growth through instrumental music!

Jen lives in Romeoville with her husband, Bob, and daughter, Eva. She is not a morning person and enjoys coffee and camping in Door County, WI.

Guitar

Trumpet/Piano

Violin