Sophomore Emily Castens feels at home in Concordia’s music program

Music education student Emily Castens found her way to Concordia University, Nebraska through family connections. A sophomore from New Haven, Indiana, both of Castens’ parents, her two older siblings, as well as her grandparents, some aunts and uncles, and a few of her cousins all attended Concordia. These connections are what ultimately led her to Concordia.

Aside from the familial connections, Castens chose Concordia because of the faith life opportunities. She says, “With the weekend church services, daily chapel, and evening prayer, the opportunities for time with God are endless.” She also appreciates that there is an abundance of times and places for individual devotion time. She was also drawn to the music program, and the support and involvement the department provides to their students. 

She says, “One of Concordia’s greatest focal points is its attention to faith life. I’ve been presented with so many opportunities to grow in my faith life; it’s amazing. I’ve found a safe space at Concordia for when I struggle in my faith life, and I’m able to help others as well. In everything we do, Christ is the main focus.”

Castens had several things to say about studying music education at Concordia. She mentioned how the other students in the program were both inspiring and motivating while being extremely approachable and supportive. She said that the upperclassmen especially never hesitate to listen, give advice, answer questions and just be genuinely friendly to everyone. 

Castens also spoke very highly of her professors. She stated that while the faculty has very high expectations for the students, they consistently provide support and set their students up for success. “They’ve reminded me why I’m doing what I’m doing. I’m not making music and working so hard for myself. We’re all here for the glory of God.” She specifically mentioned her academic advisor Professor Robert Cody. She said that while he has a busy schedule of his own, he never fails to check on her, offer support and advice and push her to be the best she can be. 

Castens also observed that even with the amount of talent in the program, everyone stays humble and allows Christ to shine through their work. She noticed this in rehearsals, concerts and tours as well as in everyone’s individual work. “Before every concert, someone gives a devotion to remind everyone of the purpose, and that’s one of my favorite parts of studying at Concordia.”

“They’ve reminded me why I’m doing what I’m doing. I’m not making music and working so hard for myself. We’re all here for the glory of God.”

Castens’ summer job is working with young children at a daycare/summer camp. She said that because of the field experience she obtained just from her first year at Concordia, she was well prepared for working in a classroom setting. She also mentioned that she was learning a lot about how best to support her future students by working with kids in a Lutheran setting.

After graduation, Castens wants to be called to a Lutheran school to teach band or choir. She also would love to be involved in a marching band program or an aspect of church music. She is also considering higher education. “I’m not exactly sure what age level or where I’d like to teach yet, but I know that I will be prepared for whatever God leads me to.”

Castens’ parents, Benjamin and Christine Castens, met at Concordia and were married in 2000 following their graduation. They have both actively served the church throughout their careers. Castens has two older siblings, Kathryn ’23 and Andrew, who currently attends Concordia. 

Outside of academics, Castens enjoys being outdoors, baking, drinking coffee, and spending time with her family and friends. She especially enjoys being able to continue making music within those groups.

The music education program at Concordia is intended for those who wish to teach vocal and instrumental music, or vocal music only, in public or private schools. It includes skill development in the common core of musicianship as well as studies in music education that will allow you to apply educational principles to your everyday work in the classroom. Two tracks are available: comprehensive (instrumental and vocal) music education and vocal music education. Learn more about Concordia’s music education program here.