Music Director – Carole Knisely

Born and raised in Central PA, Carole Knisely began her musical studies at age seven. Her childhood church was wonderfully supportive of her training and by college age, Carole continued her studies as a Piano Performance Major at the University of West Virginia. Following her graduation, Carole performed as a commercial pianist for Central PA area hotels as a full- time salaried pianist for twelve years and had an active piano studio.  Professor Knisely has directed church choirs for over three decades, along with conducting and accompanying the Harrisburg Area Community Choir and the Cumberland Singers located in Central PA.   

Carole’s musical world revolved around various churches for 25 + years as a music director and accompanist. Her passion led to entrepreneurial enthusiasm for establishing two music business degree programs at both Harrisburg Area Community College, Harrisburg, PA., and York College of PA where she taught for over 25 years. She completed her Masters in Music Business Education from Norwich University, College of Vermont.

Professor Knisely continues to head a music business associate program for Harrisburg Area Community College and enjoys commercial keyboard work for special celebrations, working as a solo background pianist, and with other music ensembles. She particularly enjoys Big Band music and musical theater selections with other musicians and performs with a trio called “The Perfect Occasion” and nicknamed “The Little Big Band” .

Carole particularly enjoys encouraging others to develop their musical skills and their love of music and hopes that you will want to join our UUCV music activities.