Teacher Spotlight- Ms. Kathleen Singh

“THE SOLFÈGE SPECIALIST”

Here at University High School, it is no secret that we are the school you are looking for when you wonder about the “gifted and talented”. In this school, we use talent very loosely for the reason being that it varies per student. Talented could apply to our athletes, our erudite scholars who compete for that valedictorian spot, but today, we are going back to the origination of talent. Yes, I am talking about our artists, but not just any artists; I think it’s about time we talking about the life of our singers of University’s very own choir.

Our choir is full of virtuosos. You might say, there is no way they became so talented overnight! And those of you who say I’m, are definitely right! But with timeless practices, our next interviewee takes pride in perfecting the craft of the voices here at the Home of the Phoenix.  I am honored to be able to introduce our next teacher spotlight, Ms. Kathleen Singh.Teaching Beginner, Mixed, Concert, and Advanced Choir.

What is the biggest misconception students have about taking choir, or any music class in general?

When it comes to choir, many students believe that they need to be the best singers to get the best grade. This is simply not true. Similar to other subjects, music is about having the will to learn and putting in the effort to become better in that subject.

What have the students here at the home of the Phoenix have taught you?

The students here have taught me that a sense of humor is a necessity and that I can’t take myself too seriously. It’s okay to make mistakes and as long as one can learn from those mistakes, it will be okay.

What are we to expect from the UHS Choir for this school year?

The UHS choir will be performing throughout the year at different events including caroling for the mayor and the winter/spring concerts. We also participate in a yearly singing competition called Music in the Parks held at Dorney Park.

What made you come back for your second year at the Home of the Phoenix?

I came back to University High School because the environment is friendly and I believe in our students’ potential in creating the best version of themselves.

How many forms of art do you express mastery in? Can you list them?

• Classical voice performance

• Piano

• Violin

• Guitar

What concept is the easiest for your students to grasp?   What concept is the most difficult?

The easiest concept for my students to grasp is listening to the music and memorizing the melody (the main part everyone knows/sings along to).

The hardest concept would be learning the music theory behind the music we make in class. For some of my students, music theory is new so gradually we’re getting better each day with practice and consistency.  

Was University everything you expected when it came to the “gifted and talented” notion it has?

Yes. The interactions I’ve had with students go above “gifted and talented”. There is so much heart in everything they do, it encourages me to improve my own skills as a teacher.

Sheesh! Well, would you look at that? We have a multi-talented connoisseur of music right in Room 117 here at Universtiy High School. I think it’s safe to say that it would not be a bright idea to not use her for all the knowledge of the music theory that she has to offer. Like they say, “speak now or forever hold your peace”. One conversation is all it takes to start going after your dreams and goals. Ms. Singh definitely has no reservations about taking your education and future in music beyond high school. It’s always great talking to you Ms. Singh. You never cease to fail us never. Hopefully one of your students will one day make it on the Grammys stage because of your investment and inspiration. Don’t forget to stop by and see Ms. Singh, to get a head start on your path to musical success. Well, that’s all the time that we have here for today. I am Devon Christopher Corry, never failing at bringing you the exclusives, and you know it all happens here, only at the Phoenix Flame. Peace!