Jussara Horton

My country of origin is Brazil where I grew up. I'm proud to say I come from a family of teachers. Both of my parents, and several aunts and uncles, were dedicated to the teaching profession in all levels. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Composition and Conducting from Campinas State University and a Conservatory Diploma in Piano Performance. When I met my husband, Mark, my life changed quite drastically. We were married in Brazil and the following year we went to serve as volunteer missionaries at Taiwan Adventist College for two years. While there, I taught piano, music education classes at the elementary school, and was a co-conductor of the Bell Choir.
By the end of our term, we were blessed with the arrival of our first son, Alex. We then returned to Brazil for eight years where I taught at the local Adventist school, which served about 180 students, as well as at the Adventist University Sao Paulo (Unasp), in the Arts and Music Education program. Also during this time we became a family of four, when Stephanie was born. In 2001 we relocated again, this time settling in Knoxville, Tennessee. Once in Knoxville I attended the University of Tennessee and completed my Master's Degree in music in 2003.