About Natalia
Originally from Colombia, Natalia Romero Arbeláez is a passionate performer, music educator, and community builder. She brings energy and a deep love of inclusive music-making to every group she leads. Natalia is passionate about access, and singer input & ownership in her choirs and performing practices.
Natalia's strength lies in her ability to connect and engage learners across all settings, and thrives in community music spaces that center personal stories and immigrant narratives. She firmly believes in the power of music as a tool for connection, change and empowerment.
Natalia works as the Upper School choir director at The Blake School (Minneapolis) where she directs three curricular ensembles and two extra-curricular groups, in addition to music directing the spring musical.
In addition to teaching, Natalia is an active performer and vocal coach. She can be seen on Season 2 of STAGE on Twin Cities Public Television, for which she received a Regional Emmy Nomination, and on the stage of Orchestra Hall hosting Young People’s Concerts.
As a vocal coach, she has worked with the Guthrie Theater, Teatro del Pueblo, and the Ordway Center for Performing Arts where she is part of the founding faculty for the GreenRoom fellowship.
In addition to her work in the classroom, Natalia serves as the Education & Community Engagement Director for Border CrosSing, where she’s developed the ¡Dale! School Residency Program, and founded Heritage Choir, a joyful and welcoming bilingual community choir.
Natalia holds a Bachelor of Music from Saint Olaf College and a Master of Music Education from the University of Saint Thomas. She lives in St. Paul with her husband and dogs.