Avaree Norman

I am so thankful to serve as Shawnee UMC’s Music Director. Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Beloit, KS, where I played viola in my both school and community orchestras, as well as singing in church and high school choir. After graduating, I attended Baker University, where I was a member of the orchestra, several chamber groups, and the Baker University Concert Choir. I received my Bachelor of Music Education from Baker in December 2010, and later earned my Master of Arts in Education degree from Baker in 2020.

I have led and been involved with choirs and praise groups at several United Methodist churches. I started attending Shawnee United Methodist Church in 2017 and became a member in 2018. During my time at Shawnee, I have been a member of the choir and praise groups, and was part of the Sunday Evening Praise Service, a ministry I hope to help rebuild.

I teach PreK-5 vocal music at T.A. Edison Elementary School in the KCKPS school district, where I have taught since moving to the Kansas City area in 2011. My students sing, play piano, play drums, and experience music through games and movement.

In my free time, I love to play piano, roller skate, take long walks with my dog, and go on hikes with my husband Art. I also am an avid knitter. I look forward to meeting and singing with everyone in the Shawnee UMC family!