In the vibrant heart of Caracas, Venezuela, María Cecilia Angarita Sergent’s life began as a melody that would evolve into a symphony, rich with harmony, challenges, and profound achievements. A dynamic woman with a fervent passion for music and education, María Cecilia’s journey is a testament to the power of dreams and the relentless pursuit of purpose.
The Early Chords: A Foundation in Music and Education
Born in Caracas, María Cecilia was immersed in the world of music from an early age. She studied piano and guitar, and eventually delved into music education, participating in choral conducting workshops and masterclasses with internationally renowned teachers. Her early training provided the foundation for a lifelong commitment to the arts. But María Cecilia’s aspirations were not limited to music alone; she also pursued a degree in Administrative Sciences from the Metropolitan University of Caracas, a reflection of her multifaceted talents and determination.
Throughout her career, María Cecilia has seamlessly blended her passion for music with her dedication to education. She has conducted workshops in musical education and choral directing across Latin America, from Venezuela to Brazil, Ecuador, Argentina, Chile, and the Dominican Republic. Her influence extended far beyond her homeland, enriching the lives of countless individuals with the transformative power of music.
A Conductor of Dreams: Building a Legacy in Venezuela
From 2007 to 2018, María Cecilia served as a professor at the Andrés Bello Catholic University in Guayana, Bolívar State, Venezuela, where she taught courses on Musical Expression, Play and Learning, and the Fundamentals of Venezuelan Culture. During this period, she directed both the Institutional Choir and the Children’s Choir, guiding them to participate in prestigious international festivals in Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and Spain. Her work in choral music was not just about performance; it was about creating a sense of community, nurturing talent, and instilling a deep appreciation for Venezuelan culture in her students.
Driven by a desire to create spaces of wellness and empowerment for women through art, María Cecilia founded the Civil Association “Women Voice and Life.” From 1999 to 2018, she directed Jácara, a vocal group associated with the organization. This initiative was more than a musical endeavor—it was a platform for women to express themselves, find their voice, and connect with others on a journey of personal and artistic growth.
A New Beginning: The United States and Continuing the Mission
In 2018, María Cecilia relocated to New Jersey, United States, where she continued her work in music education. She became a piano teacher and took on the role of directing both the Women’s Choir and Children’s Choir at Saint Joseph of the Palisades Church. Her dedication to music and education remained undiminished as she began teaching piano, singing, and music theory at Iza Music Academy in North Bergen in 2019.
In 2020, María Cecilia expanded her influence to the High Tech School of Technology, where she works as a Substitute Professor in the area of Musical Theater. Her ability to adapt to new environments and continue making a significant impact is a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to her calling.
A Visionary Educator: Embracing a Holistic Approach to Music
María Cecilia’s vision for music education is deeply rooted in a holistic approach that goes beyond the technical aspects of learning an instrument. She believes in the importance of connecting music with other forms of artistic expression, such as visual arts, dance, theater, and literature. This philosophy was embodied in the Escuela de Expresión Musical “Anawakón,” a music school she co-founded in Guayana, Venezuela.
The school’s mission is to create integral musicians through joyful learning experiences, promoting the cultural and musical values of their ancestors. Over the years, the school has grown to educate many students in various musical disciplines, from piano and guitar to voice and flute.
Guiding Principles: Reflections on Life and Legacy
Throughout her journey, María Cecilia has developed a set of guiding principles that reflect her beliefs and experiences. She emphasizes the inherent goodness in people, the importance of dreaming and working towards those dreams, and the power of presence in the lives of others. One of her key affirmations is, “No one makes a mistake on purpose,” a statement that underscores her faith in humanity and her approach to life with compassion and understanding.
For María Cecilia, success is not measured by fame or wealth but by the ability to bring happiness to those around her. She strives to live a life of service, to be remembered not only for her accomplishments but for the joy and passion she spread throughout her life. Her favorite prayer, “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,” encapsulates her desire to be a source of positivity and healing in the world.
An Enduring Legacy: The Future of Music and Education
As of January 2023, María Cecilia has taken on the role of Director of Music at Sacred Heart Church in New Jersey, continuing her mission to share the transformative power of music with others. Her journey from Caracas to New Jersey is a story of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to her calling. It is a journey that inspires not only those who have had the privilege to learn from her but also those who believe in the power of dreams and the importance of nurturing them with hard work and dedication.
María Cecilia Angarita Sergent’s life is a symphony—a beautiful composition of struggles and victories, challenges and accomplishments. Her story is a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and purpose, we can create a legacy that resonates far beyond our own lifetime. In her words, “For dreams to come true, you first have to dream them, but you have to sweat them too.” And María Cecilia has certainly done both, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and the hearts of those she has touched.
