Lyric Opera 2023-2024 Issue 7 - Aida

71 | Lyric Opera of Chicago Da’Sean Wilson, band director at Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts, and Taylor Ott, a Lyric teaching artist with extensive experience in musical education, are just one example of the dynamic working relationships created through the program. Wilson, who also recently took on the role of choir director, planned a curriculum for the school year focusing on exposure to different types of music. Together, he and Ott guide the students through the wide-ranging exploration of musical topics like foreign language, musical theater, and body percussion. “Da’Sean is building a culture that is constantly progressing,” says Ott. “He’s big on student choice—he’s aware of what they do or don’t want to take on.” The coursework hits all the necessary pedagogical milestones, while also incorporating contemporary themes that keep the students interested and engaged. Students are encouraged to test their limits and empowered to be active contributors to their vocal education. The choir director’s growth, too, has been tangible. “I feel like I have a much better understanding of the human voice and singing because of this program,” says Wilson. “Last year, when I first started taking over the choir program, it felt like a shot in the dark. With Taylor’s guidance, I can now make better and more informed decisions in regards to picking out music, determining potential struggles, and molding the program that I want here at the school.” The Lyric teaching artist agrees with the sentiment. “It’s good for the kids to hear us give notes—even if we’re saying the same things, we’re saying them differently,” remarks Ott. The presence of multiple professionals with different experiences allows for the material to be catered to different learning styles. The High School Choir Residency isn’t just confined to the classroom. The program also includes Opera Discovery Project , which provides a chance for each class to watch a dress rehearsal at Lyric. The choir teacher gets to determine which production the students will attend. Wilson chose to investigate the compelling narrative of Terence Blanchard’s Champion . “I’m very excited that the group got to experience Champion and see people who look like them perform in an art form like opera,” he elaborates. “I want my students to understand that opera, singing… things like that are for Black people, too.” Since the performance, Wilson’s students have been working to complete a song based on some of the elements they witnessed on stage. And the students aren’t the only ones learning. The High School Choir Residency program is accompanied by a professional development workshop for teachers and teaching artists. The workshop allows for teachers to share ideas and learn from one another. The 2023 Fall workshop was lengthened to a full day, after requests from participating teachers and artists. “The workshops really foster a sense of community between the choral teachers,” Wilson says. “I like being able to connect with other teachers and build camaraderie.” “It’s great to hear the perspectives of experienced choir teachers and teachers who have been in the program for a while,” Ott notes. “Hearing the questions they have and seeing what they’re working on is really cool—it helps me understand where I’m headed.” Wilson encourages students who may be interested in music, choir, or opera to pursue their curiosity. “This year, I’ve realized that there’s always a spot for students as long as they’re willing to try,” says the choir director. Now, through the High School Choir Residency program, his students are willing to try a lot more. “Everyone has something to say,” Ott adds. “There is room for so many different types of voices, and that is what makes really good art.” As part of Opera Discovery Projec t,students from McNair School of Excellence attended the dress rehearsal for Daughter of the Regiment. Bob Kusel