Rainbow Mountain Music Program
Gary Mitchell, Music Teacher
Preschool – 8th Grade
Gary Mitchell, also known as “Mr. Mitch” by his younger students, is an accomplished music instructor, choral director, organist and operatic singer. He has more than 24 years of experience teaching children of all ages from preschool through college. Gary holds a Master’s Degree in Music Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and Church Music.
Gary not only teaches music, he lives it—as an organist, vocal soloist, and choir director for several local churches. He has directed Asheville’s distinguished men’s chorus “Cantaria and numerous performances by the Asheville Community Theatre, area colleges, high schools and charter schools.
Gary’s talent and dedication have earned him numerous honors including the opportunity to serve as assistant artistic director for festivals at Carnegie Hall and national recognition for the Madrigal Choir that he revived and directed at Asheville High School. He has performed with the Asheville Symphony Orchestra, the Asheville Lyric Opera, and in numerous music festivals throughout the region. He has also been invited to perform for the U.S. Senate to support National Arts Awareness Week.
At Rainbow Mountain, Mr. Mitch uses a vocal-centric approach. Students are encouraged to develop their voice through singing regional, national, and world music with an emphasis on traditional, folk and seasonal songs. Through this approach, children naturally learn pitch, harmony, rhythm, and musical form and structure. They also strengthen their collaborative skills and self-confidence.
When Gary is not at Rainbow Mountain, he is a muse, guide and active participant in many other local churches, temples, and organizations that share his passion for making joyful noise. He is Minister of Music and Arts at First Congregational United Church of Christ and also sings at Abiding Savior Lutheran Church and Beth HaTephila. He is co-producer of the Midday Musicals series at Pack Library.
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