Cathy Olinger

String Methods + University Mentor

Office: UMC-C304
e-mail: cathy.olinger@csulb.edu

Cathy Olinger received her Bachelor of Music degree with Graduate work at California State University, Long Beach. She has taught all levels of instrumental and choral music. As the founding Director of Instrumental Music program at Tesoro High School in the Capistrano Unified School District, she developed a comprehensive Music Department with over 500 students enrolled in the music department. In 2015, Tesoro High School was recognized as a GRAMMY Signature School for its consistent level of excellence in all facets of its music program, making it one of only five high school programs nationwide to receive the award.

Mrs. Olinger has served as a guest conductor, clinician and adjudicator throughout California. She was honored to conduct the All Southern California Middle School (SCSBOA) Honor Orchestra Conductor in 1999 and 2015 and is currently serving as a Vice President on the board of directors for the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association—one of the largest regional music organization in California.

She has been recognized as an Educator of the Year for the California League of High Schools, a recipient of the Irene Schoepfle Award for distinguished contributions in Orange County Music Education, and the Encore Award for outstanding achievement in Music Education. Most recently, she received the SCSBOA Honorary Life Membership.

Currently, Mrs. Olinger works at CSULB in the music education department as a student teacher supervisor and instructor for instrument methods classes.

From working with the finest ensembles on the west coast to one-on-one coaching in the classroom, Mrs. Olinger sets high standards for achievement and musical excellence. She is a passionate advocate of music education who provides opportunity for students to develop an appreciation of music with the skills and discipline necessary for achieving musical success throughout a lifetime of experiences.