Lawrence, Denise

Education:

University of Northern Iowa

• 1979 Bachelor of Music Education K-12
• Majored in Instrumental Music

I was born in Cartersville, Iowa, and raised on a farm by my loving family. I attended grade school at Rockwell, Sacred Heart School, and Newman Catholic High School. My family still gets together every year for our family vacation by the lake and I have been blessed with many grandchildren, nieces and nephews to share it with. My mom lives in Mason City now, and my dad just passed away last March. We have always had a strong Catholic foundation, which I am proud of and try to carry on to my children and grandchildren. I have three children, Amanda in Fairbank, Emily in Des Moines, and Tom in Waterloo, as well as 7 grandchildren. I spend most of my free time with my family as often as I can.

My teaching experiences include:

1980 Ketchikan Southeast Island School District (General Music/Band)

1983–2000 Columbus High School (5-8 Band, Jazz Band)

2000–2021 Tripoli High School (5-12 Band/General Music/Musical Assistant/Accompanist)

I have had a full career in teaching band already, but I love playing many instruments, especially the saxophone and the piano, and am thankful for the opportunity to continue on my musical journey at St. Patrick school. I play sax in the CF Municipal Band and Waterloo Municipal Band each summer, I play in the California Street Sax Quartet, and I play piano at Blessed Sacrament Church for many occasions and for Sunday Masses. In the last few years I have joined with the Sugar Daddy’s big band to play summer concerts and to sub where needed. I also have played in the Shell Rock Swing Show. Music is what has kept me going in life and I love it a lot!

I am thankful to be joining the St. Patrick family this year. When I was presented with this wonderful opportunity, I just couldn’t say "no!" I am excited to meet everyone and get to know the students. I have heard nothing but wonderful things and will love it I am sure!