Rhythm runs through the breath and fingertips of Mary Schmitt.

The Naperville resident teaches music at St. Joseph School in Downers Grove, where she has worked for the past 13 years. On Dec. 18, Schmitt played the piano as the students participated in the annual Christmas concert.

“It’s not just traditional carols,” Schmitt said. “It’s different music.”

Schmitt’s father was born in Ireland and her mother was born in the Chicago area. When she was a little girl, her parents had their own Irish radio show. Her dad played the violin and her mother played the violin, piano and accordion.

Coming from musical parents, Schmitt and her siblings formed their own Irish music band and performed throughout the Chicago area when she was younger.

Schmitt now teaches music to students in kindergarten through eighth grade at St. Joe’s. She also teaches dancing and incorporates choreography into many of the school performances.

Sharing her love for music and making it fun for the students has always been a joy of Schmitt’s job.

“It’s been a very fulfilling part of my life,” Schmitt said. “As my children grew older and needed me less, I’ve really enjoyed getting back into teaching and enjoying the children very much.”

Notable
Schmitt spent her first two years of high school in Chicago and finished out at Downers Grove South High School after her family moved to the village when she was 16 years old. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music education from Benedictine University.

Quotable
“From the time (my siblings and I) were little, we would sit at my mom’s feet and sing songs. My mom gave me the gift of music.”

Teaching philosophy
“I think the biggest thing is that I try to make music fun for the students,” Schmitt said.

Favorites
Musician Schmitt said she likes a wide variety of music. “There is very little I don’t like,” she said.
Interests Cooking, reading and spending time with her family, which includes her husband and three children. Schmitt is preparing to become a grandmother.