Meet the Directors
Joseph Walker
A graduate of East Carolina University (BM and MM), Mr. Walker has been teaching in North Carolina schools for 17 years, most recently at Durham School of the Arts for the past 7 years. Orchestras under his direction receive consistently high ratings at adjudicated events. Mr. Walker is regularly invited as a guest clinician for events across North Carolina, has received the Orchestra Director of the Year award from NCMEA, and he currently serves as the North Carolina Music Educators Association's Orchestra Section Chairman. Walker is the lead teacher for String Orchestra; the assistant teacher for Philharmonic Orchestra; and teaches first and second year violin classes, along with a first year mixed class.
Kayla Meek
Kayla Meek has taught orchestra at Durham School of the Arts since the Fall of 2022. Meek directs Chamber Orchestra; co-directs String Ensemble; and teaches String Development, and violists, cellists, and bassists in String Fundamentals and String Technique. Prior to her time at DSA, Kayla worked in Guilford County Schools for 3 years teaching grades 5-8. She is an active member of the North Carolina Music Educators Association and frequently attends conferences and workshops to learn new strategies and improve as a teacher.
Kayla’s passion for music began at the age of 7 after beginning piano lessons. Shortly thereafter, Kayla began learning the violin in 4th grade through Fairfax County Public Schools. She remained invested in school orchestras through her entire education and was inspired to teach orchestra by her middle and high school teacher. Meek studied at UNC Greensboro and earned a Bachelor's degree in Music Education, where they graduated with honors.
Outside of work, Meek plays with the Chapel Hill Philharmonia in the first violin section. When time allows, she enjoys participating in chamber music with other local musicians. Meek's teaching philosophy involves preparing students for lifelong engagement with music, and she encourages all students to find opportunities to participate in and enjoy music after graduation.
Cailin Clarke
Ms. Clarke began playing cello at nine years old. After graduating from Appalachian State University with her Bachelor’s in Music Education, she began teaching in Durham, where she grew up. She is passionate about making music accessible and exciting for all students, as well as finding ways to engage musically with the local community. In her free time, Ms. Clarke enjoys listening to live music, trying new food, and spending time with friends and family in nature. Clarke is the lead teacher for Philharmonic Orchestra; co-directs String Ensemble; and assists in String Orchestra.