Bringing Music to Life: Meet the Team at Newport Sings

At the heart of every powerful performance and joyful rehearsal is a team of dedicated individuals working behind the scenes to make the magic happen. At Newport Sings, our team is not only passionate about choral music but also about building community, fostering creativity, and supporting every singer's journey. Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to the leaders who help bring our mission to life: Elizabeth Woodhouse, Founder and Artistic Director of Newport Sings, Elise Felker, NCYC conductor and Aquidneck Singers section leader, and Kristin Lafferty, Associate Music Director. 

Newport Sings Team:

Elizabeth Woodhouse — Founder/Artistic Director

What does your role involve?

Elizabeth wears many hats. As the Artistic Director, she oversees all things musical, including repertoire selection, program design, and shaping the vision for each ensemble. She conducts Quorus and Aquidneck Singers,leads Community Sing and Luminous Voices and oversees the Newport County Youth Chorus programs. In addition, she works with the Board of Directors to ensure that Newport Sings is sustainable and can continue to grow. This includes grant writing, fundraising and community networking.

What do you love most about working with Newport Sings?

“I love working with people of all ages and backgrounds, helping them unlock their voices and find joy through singing. I believe everyone can sing and the power we feel when we contribute our unique voice to something bigger, and our programs are built around that belief.”

What’s one fun fact people might not know about you?

I spent summers in Rhode Island before moving here full time in 2016. 

Anything else you want our community to know?

Elizabeth shares, “It’s been an honor to witness the growth of this community. What started with a handful of singers has grown into a vibrant organization consisting of multiple programs that were created in response to the interests and needs of our community. Our singers inspire me every day with their dedication, laughter, and love for music.”

Elise Felker — NCYC Director & Aquidneck Singers Section Leader

What brought you to Newport Sings, and what do you love about working here?

Elise Felker has always known her path would include both music and education. After earning her degree in Music Education and teaching in public schools for two years, she felt a pull toward the nonprofit arts world where she could make a deeper impact. Joining Newport Sings allowed her to continue teaching and grow as a music educator while also pursuing her passions in community building and nonprofit work. “I was drawn to Newport Sings because of its mission and values,” Elise shares. “It felt like a place where I could truly align my work with my personal values and make a bigger impact.”

What is a typical day like in your role?

When Elise is teaching with the Newport County Youth Chorus (NCYC), you’ll find her at Pell Elementary leading an after-school chorus program. Rehearsals begin with communal sharing—giving students space to connect about their weeks—followed by movement to channel their energy and prepare their bodies to sing. Vocal warm-ups lead into focused work on the group’s repertoire, where Elise guides students through everything from rhythm and pitch to phrasing and performance practice. Rehearsals wrap up with singing games and Elise’s signature sticker rewards, with one student recognized each week for hard work and respect.

Do you have a favorite project or event?

One project that stands out is Empowering Voices, a program Elise created while training in “Empowering Song,” a music teaching and facilitation technique. She had previously taught a similar course through Boston University’s Prison Education Program and was grateful for the chance to bring it to Newport Sings. The program blended theater, songwriting, poetry, and movement in a safe, exploratory space. “It was an incredibly diverse group, and the experience brought us closer together,” Elise recalls. “I will forever be grateful for that opportunity.”

What makes Newport Sings special in the community?

For Elise, it comes down to connection. “It’s not about perfection, but about joy, laughter, and using our voices to build community. People feel seen and valued here—whether they’ve been singing their whole lives or are trying it for the first time.”

Kristin Lafferty — Associate Music Director, NCYC Teacher & Aquidneck Singers Section Leader

What brought you to Newport Sings, and what do you love about working here?

Kristin Lafferty first joined Newport Sings thanks to a nudge from colleague Norma Caiazza, who encouraged her to apply as a conductor for the Newport County Youth Chorus (NCYC). What she discovered was more than a teaching opportunity—it was a community. “I love working for Newport Sings because of the community it creates,” Kristin shares. “This welcoming, accepting, and supportive environment has helped me grow as both a music educator and a choral conductor. It nurtures my love of music and my love of teaching.”

What’s the most rewarding part of your work?

For Kristin, the magic lies in watching confidence bloom. Whether it’s a child braving their first performance, a once-shy singer opening up to peers, or a young voice stepping into a solo moment, these milestones inspire her daily. “I’m filled with joy when I get to watch a singer grow in both confidence and musical ability,” she says.

Describe Newport Sings in three words: Joyful. Lively. Supportive.

Final note from Kristin:

In addition to her work with NCYC, Kristin also serves as a section leader for Aquidneck Singers, which she calls another “happy place.” She cherishes Tuesday evenings with the adult singers, enjoying the similarities and differences between working with children and adults. “It’s such a joy to experience both worlds of music-making.”

Join the Harmony

Newport Sings is more than a music program—it’s a place where people find their voice, build friendships, and create something beautiful together. Whether you're a lifelong singer or just discovering your love for music, there's a place for you in our community.

✨ Learn more about our programs or get involved at www.newportsings.org. 🎶

Come sing with us—and be part of something extraordinary.

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