When I first began teaching through the fellowship, I thought that the most important tactic was to consistently review my teaching plans prior to my tutoring sessions. The fear was that, if I didn’t review enough, I would forget what I “needed” to do in order for them to succeed. Though it’s true that preparation is key, I learned that the work should rather be centered around what the student brings to the table, and less so around what you think they need. 

Of course, the first few tutoring sessions involved a learning curve for myself and for the students. It would be unfair to say that I knew exactly what to diagnose upon listening to their strategies for approaching a musical text. That said, once my teaching plans became ingrained in my memory, I could effectively focus on the present moment with the student (rather than my own thoughts). It’s a remarkably freeing experience to do so! 

This made me realize that surviving through a concept and embodying what you understand are colossally different endeavors, both of which are applicable as a teacher and a student. The best approach I can offer is one that I learned during my Creative Arts Fellowship experience in 2021: honesty and vulnerability are the keys to success. Believe it or not, making a mistake is a great tool for musical growth! By actively acknowledging it, you can further dissect how a concept works, what methods are helpful for you, and what to consider the next time around. 

I cannot emphasize how much of a privilege it has been to work with my fellow members of the Heinz Chapel Choir. Their friendship and dedication to musical excellence are the twin pillars upon which our fortitude as an ensemble rests – applying those values to the CUTF indubitably ensured its success, and I have Dr. Rice and the students to thank. 

I have one more semester before I graduate – in that time, I am working on further involving myself in the music education field, predominantly through post-baccalaureate degree opportunities and other choral experiences. Though it is difficult to imagine this chapter coming to a close, I feel confident that my experiences at Pitt, especially with the Heinz Chapel Choir, have shaped me to become the best version of myself that I can be. 

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Cheers!