As part of varsity choir, junior Kennedy Williams finds choir a happy place that she enjoys being part of. Through her time in choir, she has learned much about herself and her singing.
Kennedy Williams
Grade: 11
Future college: Texas Southern University
Future Job: vocal trainer
Years in choir: 6
Inspiration: Dr. Allen Hightower, Ariana Grande
Wingspan: What is it like being in varsity choir?
Williams: “I find it very exciting because there is a such a great mix of people. We are the only mixed choir at Liberty so we have boys and girls. We also have everyone from Freshman to seniors, who have to audition to be in the choir. Due to the requirement of auditioning prior to being admitted into varsity we go in to the year knowing what everyone is capable of.”
Wingspan: How has it affected your life?
Williams: “Choir has made me happy to come to school because it gives me something to look forward to, a place where I can do what I love with people I love. It’s also made me tremendously better at my craft. Choir has taught me everything from how to warm up my voice, how to sing in a way that wont damage your voice, and even singing music that I have gotten 30 seconds to look at.”
Wingspan: What’s been your favorite memory?
Williams: “My favorite choral memory was earning two one’s at UIL this month. The Mixed Ensemble of Liberty High School made history this year. With the help of our gorgeous director, Toni Ugolini we were able to take home the first sweepstakes of a redhawk mixed choir.”
Wingspan: How do you prepare for a show?
Williams: “Well, as a group there will be multiple rehearsals in class and outside of class leading up to a performance. Individually, I will make sure my water intake is solid at least three days prior show so I am sure my vocal chords are getting everything they need before i put an hour and a half restrain on it.”
Wingspan: What have you learned about yourself through the arts?
Williams: “I have learned that I love to be apart of big things. I love singing in a group, I love the production leading up big performances. In my eyes, being a stage is the most comfortable and nerve-wracking place in the world because you get to show everyone who you are while getting the opportunity to choose to be in your own world living your own story on stage.”
Wingspan: Are you considering to pursue a musical career?
Williams: “Yes, I am fascinated by the technique used for vocal performance. Up until this year I was insecure about my voice I never felt I was good enough; but it was only because I was not consistently using good technique. I would love to be a professional vocal trainer so I can show people they’re ability to shine by teaching them proper technique like breath control, vowel tone, and the importance of consonants.”
Wingspan: How do you handle your mistakes during a performance?
Williams: “During solo performances I will usually just smile to myself and muster on through, but I would be lying if I told you I did not think about that one mistake for the rest of the day and performance.”
Wingspan: What’s the biggest challenge of being in varsity?
Williams: “Remembering that we are setting the example for the women’s choir. We have to be sure we are labeling solfege when she requests us to do so, refraining from talking during transitions.”
Wingspan: What is your advice to anyone who aspires to be in the arts?
Williams: “I would just tell you not to give up when things aren’t right. I promise you your teachers know how to make you better and what approach to take.”