Denise Favela Apodaca is a Master Instructor in the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance at Colorado State University, where she has taught for over a decade. With more than 30 years of experience in music education, she brings deep passion and purpose to her teaching, whether she’s guiding undergraduate musicians, mentoring graduate students, or designing inclusive, culturally responsive courses in world music, piano, and music appreciation.

Her work bridges classrooms and communities. Denise has led early childhood music programs, chaired piano departments, directed nonprofit youth orchestras, and served as Director of Student Success and Executive Committee Founder for Colorado State University’s Graduate Center for Inclusive Mentoring. A bilingual educator and certified wellness coach, she is committed to equity, healing, and human connection through education.

Currently completing her Doctor of Education in College Teaching at Teachers College, Columbia University, Denise’s research explores the intersections of music, identity, memory, and belonging. Her teaching has been honored with awards for excellence, service, and mentorship, but what matters most to her is the trust her students place in her, and the shared belief that music can change lives.

Outside the classroom, Denise finds joy in traveling, and spending time with her three children, to whom this book is lovingly dedicated.