It is an exciting time at Harmony Garden. Not just because it’s our 20th anniversary, but also because, for the first time ever, we have accepted not one, but TWO music therapy interns. We wanted to take a moment to introduce them to all of you because you will definitely be seeing them both in our office and out and about in the community. Please give them a warm welcome from the Harmony Garden family and maybe share some of your favorite things to do in Jackson because they both just moved to the area!
Halie Schmidlin (she/her)
Halie Schmidlin is currently working toward completing her Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy from Eastern Michigan University by doing her internship at Harmony Garden Music Therapy. In her practicum, she has gained experience working with adults with disabilities or psychiatric conditions, adults in hospice care, and children with disabilities.
Halie’s primary instrument is the flute, and she has been involved in many ensembles at Eastern Michigan University, previously serving as principal flute in the EMU Wind Symphony, and Drum Major in the EMU Marching Band. While at Eastern she was also a member of the Music Therapy Student Association, and eastern’s chapters of Mu Phi Epsilon and Kappa Kappa Psi, serving in various leadership positions in each organization.
Halie grew up in New Baltimore, Michigan, which is home to the tallest flagpole in Michigan! In her free time, she likes to catch up with friends and do arts and crafts. Currently she is tackling a diamond art painting!
Elyse Schurman (she/her)
Elyse Schurman grew up in Holland but moved to Kalamazoo to study music therapy at Western Michigan University. She is now in Jackson finishing her degree. Her practicums have given her experience with adults with disabilities, aging populations, adolescents, and speech rehabilitation. She enjoys working with all populations; thus, she has chosen an internship at Harmony Garden Music Therapy. Currently, she is the Vice President of the Great Lakes Region of the American Music Therapy Student Association. Her primary instrument is the violin, which she plans to continue playing with the Jackson Symphony Orchestra Community Strings. Outside of music therapy, Elyse spends time with her wobbly cat, Briggs. Her hobbies include thrifting, weight lifting, making art, and practicing yoga. When she has time, she works as a direct support professional in adult foster care.
