Sing-Along Applied Learning
Written By Daisy Willis
The University of Hawaii at Hilo is an eclectic school to say the least, with exciting clubs, classes, and organizations everywhere you look. We might not have a secret fraternity or a cult of preppy sorority girls, but we do have a myriad of interesting opportunities for students from all disciplines, backgrounds, and interests.
Music 404, otherwise known as the Kapili Choir, is one of these unique classes that push the boundaries of creativity with their applied learning. Taught by accomplished music instructor Amy Horst, the Kapili Choir is an audition-based singing group for students from any major. They spend their days rehearsing songs for their end of the semester performance as well as the many side performances they are asked to perform in. This class allows both performing arts students to apply their singing skills in a real rehearsal/performance setting, and students that simply love to sing to blow off steam with like-minded classmates.
Kapili Choir getting ready for a new day of rehearsals in the Music Rehearsal Room. Photo taken by ALEX Reporter, Daisy Willis.
Landon Ballesteros is a sophomore in Cell & Molecular Biology and also a Bass in the Choir. He only recently found his passion for singing, and the Kapili Choir was a major stepping stone to further his self-confidence and allow him to explore what it means to be a performer. Since joining the choir at the beginning of this school year, Landon has added performing arts to his degree, and credits his excellent classmates and teachers with this decision.
In an interview Landon spoke about his time with the choir saying “One of my favorite things is the pace at which this choir learns. The choir is full of different skill levels and performance styles, so the camaraderie among the choir has helped me to pick up a lot of essential choral and vocal skills that I never had before. Another thing I really enjoy is how fun the class is. I think it's important to have a class where you can blow off steam instead of absorb stress. Getting to spend time with some of the most compassionate and driven students and teachers gives me something to look forward to every week.”
UH Hilo sophomore, Landon Ballesteros smiles as he reads through his script rehearshing for Hilo: Da Musical. Photo provided by Glenn Fernandez.
Although Landon is still torn about his career path, he has thoroughly enjoyed his time with the choir. “I was originally a Biology major” admitted Landon, “but now I've added Performing Arts. I also have a passion for education and student success. So whether I become a Biology teacher, performing arts teacher, or a school counselor or whatever else, Kapili Choir has definitely broadened my horizons and introduced me to a lifestyle that I definitely want to continue for as long as I can.”
If you are interested in choir but are a beginning singer, the University Chorus (Music 102) is a fantastic alternative to gain practice and experience in preparation for Kapili Choir. Check out the other opportunites that the performing arts depratemnt offers in the way of classes at https://www.sis.hawaii.edu/uhdad/avail.classes?i=HIL&t=201610&s=MUS
