Ava Chakravarti
Ava Chakravarti is a passionate music educator with over 20 years of experience in the music industry, dedicated to nurturing a love of music in young children. A lifelong musician and singer, Ava began her career in music retail at stores such as Discount Records, Musicland, and Sam Goody, where her areas of expertise were as a Singles Buyer and Display/Merchandiser, and where customer service was always a high priority for her and her staff. She also spent over 10 years in music production, working with One Reel’s Summer Nights at the Pier as an Artist Liaison, Runner, and Troubleshooter, as well as at the Bumbershoot Music Festival, where she ran gates, served as a Runner for Memorial Stadium and Seattle Center Radio Base, and worked as a Customer Service Representative. Ava also worked several years at the One Reel and Teatro ZinZanni offices as an Office Coordinator, Human Resource, and Executive Assistant.
Transitioning into early childhood music education, Ava found her true calling. She joined the Seattle School of Rock as the “Little Wing” music director, where she spent four years directing and teaching young children, exposing them to musical instruments, rhythms, musical language, and the joy of music. She then continued her work at Sweet Pea Cottage Preschool of the Arts as an Operations Coordinator and Music Specialty Teacher for two years, leading focused classes in a school environment. She continues that journey working with Mode Music and Performing Arts in Seattle Public Schools and as a Tiny Modes instructor. Ava has also worked extensively with children who have special needs, using music as a bridge to engagement and personal growth.
Beyond teaching, Ava has been a vocalist for many years, performing with bands including Prudence Dredge, Mass Hypnosis, Manooghi Hi, and currently the 60’s/70’s group The Mrs Bill Larsen’s. She is also active in Mode Music and Performing Arts and the community group “As Many Weirdos as Possible.”
Ava’s work reflects her belief that music transcends boundaries, celebrates diversity, and brings joy to both students and the wider community. Through every note, she continues to inspire young learners to find their voices and the joy of self-expression.
• Shoreline Community College- A.A.
• Weirdo
What do you attribute your success to?
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My vocal teacher at Shoreline Community College told me I could sing higher and I should so, I did because I was given permission to! Sometimes that’s what it takes!
I try to give my kids permission to try something new and that builds their confidence…
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Stay true to yourself and what you believe in remembering that music crosses many borders.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
It is still a challenge to be heard but, we must believe in ourselves and that the world has the power to change obstacles.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
It is important to speak your truth and support the growth of our youth and elders.
All are of worth and can teach us a lot!