A dedicated music educator, conductor, and composer, Ms. Thorup holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Music Education from the University of Utah. Since 2010, she has taught orchestra, Spanish, guitar, and more, conducts the Herriman Community Orchestra, and plays violin with the Salt Lake Symphony and other ensembles. She’s also a presenter at state and national music conferences, and when she isn’t making music, you’ll find her gardening, spending time with family, or walking her dog, Coda.
Five years ago, Ms. Thorup began a tradition that would transform her teaching and her artistry: the 100 Days of Practice Challenge. Every year, she invites students to practice something music-related for at least five minutes a day, from December 15 to April 30. The challenge is optional, but she always does it herself—modeling lifelong learning and determination.
Three years ago, Ms. Thorup took a bold leap for her own challenge. With little experience in original composition, she found a teacher and began taking composition lessons. Drawing on her love for Latin music and her years teaching Spanish, she set out to write a piece for string orchestra that captured the energy and unique textures of Argentine tango. The result was “Starlight Tango,” a vibrant work filled with authentic tango effects and melodic moments for every section.
The journey didn’t end when the piece was first performed with her orchestra. Ms. Thorup submitted it to publishers, and “Starlight Tango” was published by DogSmile Music. This year, the piece reached new heights: it was named a JWPepper Editor’s Choice—one of the highest distinctions in educational music. In February, it will be performed at the ASTA National Conference in San Francisco, and Ms. Thorup plans to bring it home for Mountain Ridge’s final concert, featuring a special collaboration with the Chamber Orchestra and ballroom team.
Ms. Thorup’s story reminds us that every step outside our comfort zone builds something lasting. Her journey shows our community the true meaning of the Sentinel legacy: courage, creativity, and the unending pursuit of growth. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Thorup on this remarkable achievement.