About Our Teacher
Dr. Lubitza Hershberger
“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” – Plato
Dr. Lubitza Hershberger is a passionate music educator, violist, and advocate for the power of music to inspire and connect. She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA), a Master of Music (MM), and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Viola Performance, along with extensive coursework in string pedagogy and Suzuki training. Over the years, she has taught both piano and strings through the University of Kentucky String Project and worked with students of all ages in private and group settings.
While at the University of Kentucky, Lubitza served as president of the ASTA student chapter, fostering community among emerging string teachers. She currently teaches viola at Centre College and serves as music director at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Lexington, Kentucky.
Lubitza’s teaching philosophy centers on the idea that music is not a competition, but a celebration of creativity, growth, and connection. She creates a classroom environment where students feel safe to be themselves and where every voice is valued. Whether working with beginners or advanced players, she encourages exploration through playing, composing, conducting, and improvising.
She believes music fosters empathy, emotional intelligence, and a strong sense of belonging. Her students not only develop their technical skills but also learn to think independently, express themselves deeply, and support one another through shared musical experiences.
In her teaching, Lubitza blends classical repertoire with exciting contemporary pieces, including film scores and student favorites, to keep lessons fresh and inspiring. From the thrill of performance to the quiet joy of daily practice, she helps her students grow into confident, kind, and expressive young musicians.
At HASP, Lubitza brings joyful energy, technical knowledge, and a deep commitment to student-centered learning. She is excited to contribute to a program that uplifts young musicians through excellence, creativity, and heart.
To learn more about her academic research, you can explore her dissertation here:
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/music_etds/159