When reflecting on my musical experiences since high school, it is apparent to me that I have had two strong female influences in my life - Denise Pitcock, my high school director, and my current director, Dr. Karen Kenaston-French. During my first year teaching, I was constantly recognizing their teachings in my own classroom. I remember feeling so lucky to have extraordinary educators that allowed me to follow in their footsteps. Their guidance and knowledge never ceases to amaze me and I will forever be grateful that I landed in their choirs.
When I started my first year teaching at Nolan Catholic High School in 2020, I knew I wanted to create something meaningful for each student who walked through the choir room doors. Now I didn’t know everything, and let's be honest, as a first year teacher during the pandemic, I didn’t know a lot of things! But I did know it was important for me to not only mold great singers, but also kind citizens. Building confidence in them and for each other was extremely rewarding every single day. I loved getting to know their interests outside of choir and together we created a family.
Knowing I would be leaving, many tears were shed by both me and my students during our year-end banquet. They also surprised me with an incredibly sweet video put together by one of my junior girls, Adelina Villalobos. Leaving Nolan Catholic High School was not an easy decision, but I knew obtaining my masters at UTA and studying under one of my greatest influences, Dr. Kenaston-French, would benefit me tremendously.
I am honored and humbled to be Associate Director this season for the Fort Worth Chorale. When I accepted this role, I was anxious to begin and knew I would need to rise to the occasion. I do not take this opportunity lightly, and cannot wait to cherish each moment with all of the great members of the Chorale!