Stephanie Tassos Wohlsifer, formerly known as Merope Stephanie Sarafoglu, is a multifaceted musician, educator, and therapist with a rich background in music spanning over four decades. Her journey began with a Bachelor of Music from Manhattanville College, where she honed her skills as a pianist and vocalist. Throughout her career, she has showcased her talents across various genres, from Broadway shows like The Lieutenant to performances with esteemed dance companies such as the Alvin Ailey Dance Company and the New York City Ballet.
Transitioning seamlessly between roles, Stephanie embarked on a path in engineering, contributing her expertise to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for over a decade. However, her passion for music and its therapeutic potential led her to pursue a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering from Florida International University while simultaneously nurturing her musical pursuits.
In 2012, Stephanie further expanded her horizons by obtaining a Music Therapy Equivalency Certificate from Florida State University, cementing her commitment to the healing power of music. Since then, she has dedicated herself to providing private music therapy sessions, specializing in aiding individuals with various cognitive and developmental challenges, including post-stroke aphasia, autism spectrum disorder, and cerebral palsy.
Stephanie's journey as an educator and therapist is underscored by her extensive teaching and clinical experience. From her tenure as a private instructor of piano, voice, music theory, and improvisation since 1980 to her role as a music therapist at prestigious institutions like Big Bend Hospice and the Florida State Hospital, her dedication to facilitating musical expression and healing is evident.
Throughout her illustrious career, Stephanie has been a beacon of service and philanthropy, volunteering her musical talents for numerous causes, including post-stroke speech recovery and cancer support initiatives. Her commitment to giving back to her community is mirrored in her volunteer work at various organizations, from wildlife centers to Greek Orthodox churches.
Stephanie's accomplishments have garnered recognition and accolades, including the Spotlight on Excellence Award from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and a Pratt & Whitney Leadership Award Finalist designation. Her expertise extends beyond music, encompassing environmental engineering and public service, reflecting a remarkable breadth of knowledge and skill.
Today, Stephanie continues to inspire through her music, education, and therapeutic interventions, embodying a lifelong commitment to enriching lives through the transformative power of music.
[Note: This biography synthesizes Stephanie's diverse experiences and achievements into a cohesive narrative that highlights her contributions as a musician, educator, therapist, and community leader.]
