Rosemary “Rosie” Hallum

Rosemary Hallum is a pianist, performer, writer & teacher specializing in ragtime & novelty, built upon a classical background. She earned a B.A. in English, M.A. in education & Ph.D. in music & movement education, plus postdoctoral studies in the U.S. & Europe.
Dr. Hallum has played in music festivals in Europe (Portugal, Italy, Hungary, England) & the U.S. (West Coast Ragtime Festival, Ragtime Corners of the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee), & performed in master classes of Paul Badura-Skoda, Boris Berman, Tony Caramia & others. She belongs to several professional organizations (ASCAP, AFM, AFT, MTAC) & has teaching experience ranging from university through preschool. She has presented over 100 local, state & national teacher workshops & is listed in several reference volumes including Who's Who & the Dictionary of International Biography. Students in her private piano studio in Alameda range in age from 8 to 80, & all do improvisation & creative work.

Rosie is noted for her research, writing ability & effective interviewing. Her numerous publications as author, co-author or contributing editor include over 400 magazine articles in the U.S., Europe & Japan, ranging from music & education to bodybuilding, fitness, travel & nutrition. Then there are six books, two textbooks, several teaching guides & over 30 children's educational music albums. She has interviewed stars in music (Dave Brubeck, Eldar, Woody Allen, James Brown, Marian McPartland, Uri Caine), world champions in bodybuilding, fitness & strongman competitions, & famous cooks (Julia Child, Ming Tsai).

Her other interests include research, cars, & "hands-on" travel (two Biblical archaeology excavations, dinosaur dig, woolly mammoth dig, working with giant pandas). Throughout her life, music has been a constant. "It has been a source of beauty & joy & has opened many doors!" she says.