Behind the Work: Dr. Edel

The heart of developmental and wellness psychologist Dr. Edel Sanders’ work lies at the intersection of creating music, discovering psychological connections and using the profound benefits of musical engagement to help others flourish. She is thrilled to be sharing decades of embodied experience as a professional singer, NATS certified vocal instructor and university professor in music psychology, educational psychology and more with you.

Her framework is further validated by extensive research, publications, compositions and over 20 years of pedagogical immersion, from teaching across all age groups and levels to educational leadership.

• Academic & Research Excellence: Holding three degrees from Columbia University and a PhD from the University of Cambridge, Dr. Edel’s distinguished academic background includes serving as a university dean for nine years, teaching at five universities and publishing nearly 20 peer-reviewed scientific studies on music psychology and more.

• Global Artistic Career: A seasoned international performer across American, British and European stages, she is also a composer holding prestigious honors, including the ASCAP Classical Music Award for her ballet-opera about abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

Through Dr. Edel's creative work and her students’ experiences, she has seen firsthand that musical expression is far more than entertainment. As noted in her recent publication in the Journal of Popular Music Education, the profound benefits of musical engagement are intrinsic to being human—making it an invaluable tool for creative expression, cognitive evolution, emotional regulation, somatic release, inner healing and societal harmony.

You are invited to join Dr. Edel in bridging art and science to elevate your creativity, uplift your spirit, sharpen your mind and enhance your overall wellbeing through lessons, masterclasses, courses, writings, compositions and performances.