Brianna (Peckham) Shaffer ,

B.A. music therapy ’08, recently opened her business,
Play Your Part, Inc.
, a unique company designed to provide music therapy for children with autism. After being involved in Greek Life, Order of Omega and as an Orientation Assistant, Brianna urges students to dive in and try new things.

Tell us about your career – what do you do on a day to day basis?

I recently opened a private music therapy and music lessons business called
Play Your Part, Inc
. In addition to providing lessons in piano and guitar, I work with children on the autism spectrum and their families, using music to facilitate non-musical goals. We can address communication goals through singing, process emotions through lyric analysis, encourage language development through song writing, and target academic concepts through music (think ABCs!).  My day-to-day schedule varies, but generally I can be found making music with my clients, practicing, writing reports, blogging, marketing and networking.

What insight would you give to current students and alumni who are searching for employment? 

Looking for a job is a full-time job! Two years ago, I created a job for myself by writing to various companies who could benefit from the addition of music therapy.  It took a few months, but if you believe in yourself and your career, you can make anything work.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their time at Chapman? 

Get involved, try new things and support your peers in other departments/programs. Introduce yourself to new people, join clubs, go to concerts, dance recitals, movie premieres and Greek events.

From your time at Chapman, which faculty member(s) made the greatest impact on you and why?

Cathy O’Neil definitely made the biggest impact during my Intro to Music Therapy class as a freshman. Every week, she would start or end the class with her ‘Music Therapy Story of the Week’. I would look forward to it each week. As the semester went on, the students could tell their stories from their work in the field and it was really amazing to hear the difference we were all making on a weekly basis.

How has your Chapman degree helped you in your professional and personal life?

I received a personalized education with professors and mentors that truly cared about me and my career goals. Personally, I met a wonderfully diverse group of people. Many of my Chapman friends have become important pillars in my life with whom I still spend time – often reminiscing about our memorable Chapman experiences.

How were you involved on campus during your time as a Chapman student? (clubs, organizations, etc.)

I was very active in the Greek community (Phi Sigma Sigma), Order of Omega and as an Orientation Assistant.

What was your favorite Chapman memory?

There isn’t just one that stands out but many…Date skate, street fair, recruitment and sorority dances, touring Australia with the Chapman Wind Symphony, and orientation.

What was your favorite spot on campus as a student?

The Oliphant Hall front steps.  I spent many hours chatting, eating, working, people watching and enjoying the shade.

Have you been involved with Chapman since graduating?

Well, it was great to be back for Homecoming weekend! I’m a chapter advisor for Phi Sigma Sigma, working with their Sisterhood Development, and I try to make the Alumni social events in Orange County.  I’ll take any excuse to visit the Orange Circle – a place that will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Explore and Connect Further:

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Brianna Shaffer Now

 

Brianna Then

 

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Brianna Then

Contact Brianna:

Email: brianna@playyourpartmusic.com

Website: www.playyourpartmusic.com

Toll-free phone and fax: (855) LETS-PYP or (855-538-7797)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/playyourpartmt

Twitter: @playyourpartmt

Instagram: @playyourpartmt