Creating human solutions for other humans

Mythical Motifs is a nod to the link between literature and music. Owned and operated by Kirsten and Michael Genslinger, this unique company is positioned to foster your growth. Whether you’re an individual looking for editing services or a school looking to commission a new piece of music, Mythical Motifs is here to provide a world-class collaborative experience.

We do not use AI for any of our creative services.

Kirsten

Kirsten lives with her head in the clouds, fighting dragons, and the only way she finds her way back to solid ground is with a pen in her hand and words on a page. 

Kirsten is an adjunct professor of English at Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska and is currently working on her second full-length manuscript. She is a military brat that has lived all over the United States. Her mother was in the Air Force, and moved every 3-4 years. She loved reading from a young age and could always be found with a book, a notepad, and something to write with. She fell in love with authors like Christopher Paolini, Veronica Roth, J.R.R. Tolkien, Suzanne Collins, Cassandra Claire, and many more. Since she was constantly moving, books were an escape, and an easy way to make new friends. She found a community no matter where she lived because of her love of books—and it’s something she wants to create with her own readership—a place to belong.

Now, Kirsten can often be found at home with her family. She’s usually hoarding notebooks that she never writes in, and trying to find non-existent space on her bookshelves for new books that she definitely didn’t buy. Specializing in Speculative Fiction and Romance, she enjoys the challenge that comes with the process of world building and unique character development. She loves books that have well-rounded characters that make her laugh or cry, extensive and beautiful world-building, and dragons. You can never go wrong with dragons. As a veteran of the United States Navy, she has experienced unique cultures on a global scale, which informs her creative process. She holds a Bachelor's in English and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing.

Michael

Dr. Michael Genslinger is an Assistant Professor of Music at Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska. In addition to serving as the assistant director of bands, he teaches music education courses and applied trumpet. Michael serves as the principal trumpet for A Touch of Brass, lead trumpet for the Northeast Area Jazz Ensemble, co-principal trumpet for the Sioux City Municipal Band, performs regularly with the Sioux City Symphony, and performs frequent solo recitals at Wayne State College. He served as principal cornet in the Nebraska Brass Band for the 2023-2024 season and has performed with the Ocala Symphony, Carnival Cruise Lines, and as a freelance musician in the Southeast United States and Greater Siouxland area. As a music educator, he frequently serves as a guest clinician and adjudicator for concert band, jazz ensemble, and marching band. He is the host of Rural Music Matters, a podcast that serves as a resource and advocate for rural music education. Prior to his appointment to Wayne State College, Michael taught in Florida public schools for 11 years. He holds a bachelor's in music performance from Stetson University, a master's in music performance and a master’s in music education, both from the University of North Florida, and a doctorate in Music Education from Liberty University. Michael is a performing artist with Adams Brass, an international instrument manufacturer headquartered in The Netherlands.