Orchestra Directors

Gihae Shin

Head Orchestra Director

Mrs. Shin is excited to serve as the Head Orchestra Director at Plano Senior High School. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from the University of North Texas, where she developed a passion for both performance and music education. During her college years, she had multiple opportunities to perform with the Plano Symphony Orchestra.

Before joining Plano ISD, Mrs. Shin served as the Head Director of Orchestras at Creekview High School in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, where she led remarkable program growth, consistently earned UIL Sweepstakes, and received the National Medal of Distinction for three consecutive years.

As a cellist and educator, Mrs. Shin is passionate about creating an orchestra program where students grow not only as musicians but also as compassionate leaders and confident individuals. Her goal is to inspire every student to discover their potential while fostering a supportive, united community where everyone feels valued.

gihae.shin@pisd.edu

469-752-9396

Raquel Martinez

Assistant Orchestra Director

Mrs. Martinez is currently the Assistant Orchestra Director at Plano Senior High School. With flute as her primary instrument and cello as her secondary, she received a Bachelor of Music Education with a string emphasis at the University of Texas at Arlington.

At UTA, Mrs. Martinez played in many ensembles including the UTA Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble. She is currently an active member of TMEA, TODA, and plays in the New Philharmonic Orchestra of Irving.

In her free time, Mrs. Martinez likes to stay active, relax at home, or find new hobbies when she is not working.

raquel.rodriguez@pisd.edu

469-752-9495