Erika Burns, Wellness Instructor
Erika Burns is a violinist and certified Franklin Method™ Educator based in Washington State. She received her Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Oklahoma, where her research explored incorporating movement education principles from somatic disciplines and sports into the violin studio. Dr. Burns is a past Emerging Artist Fellow at Garth Newel Music Center and duo526 Sonata Seminar alumnus.
The Franklin Method™ is an evidence-based somatic movement education method that uses
imagery, embodied anatomy, and targeted exercises to improve movement and overall physical
and mental well-being.
Wellness Assistants:
Kawaii the Cavachon
Born in Saskatchewan, Kawaii is half King Charles Cavalier Spaniel and half Bichon. Fun-loving and adventurous, Kawaii is always making friends everywhere she goes. She loves listening to the violin and piano, and often attends lessons and masterclasses at Brandon University. Every day could easily be #takeyourdogtoworkday and she absolutely steals the show when on stage. A bit big for a true lap dog, Kawaii loves giving therapy hugs and cuddles!
Cocoa the Shibainu
Cocoa owns a true Japanese spirit with her cute appearance and quick ninja moves. Despite her midwestern upbringing thus far (born in Ohio, raised in Bloomington, Indiana), her Japanese roots are always present. An avid mole hunter, Cocoa loves to spend her days in the backyard keeping watch and looking for opportunities to dig and chase. She loves to wind down each day curled up by the fireplace every evening.