Meet the Director

I believe that the success of the West Springfield Spartan Orchestra program is a result of the incredibly supportive administrative staff, the strong collaborative partnership with elementary feeders and the West Springfield community. 

As the music director,  I'm here to provide inspiration, resources and tools for each student to perform to their musical aspiration.  Along the way, I hope to instill a love and curiosity of music that will last a lifetime. 

What I enjoy the most about orchestra is the collaborative process of  creating and developing a high level of musicianship that comes from hard work and commitment to the individual and the ensemble. Music provides an outlet  for self discovery and I am certain that your child will benefit and thrive during their time with the Spartan Orchestra. 

I attended Northern Va Community College and graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University, earning my Bachelor’s of Music Education. Immediately upon graduation, I began my teaching career in Hanover County (VA) just outside of Richmond and in 2007 I started teaching at Irving Middle School here is Fairfax County. 

I am supported by my loving and musical family; husband Chris, karaoke extraordinaire, Ella, violinist and Eva, euphonium player. When I do have time, I enjoy playing my violin with local groups such as the Washington Sinfonietta and the Capital City Orchestra. 

I believe that music exists so we can build community and connect in a collaborative and creative setting. It allows us to build communication skills, it provides an environment that engages students in creative thinking, promotes the belief of self and engages them in reflection for themselves and others. 


Be part of the music. Come watch us perform. Support and encourage the musical journey.


Ms. Jennifer Herrera

Spartan Orchestra Director

jlherrera@fcps.edu