Choral Clinician Q&A: Get to Know Krista Hart

Educator, clinician, singer, and Alfred Music Marketing Manager Krista Hart is hitting the road this summer as part of our Celebration of Song! Summer Choral Reading Sessions. Learn all about her passion for choral music, how she motivates students, and what she's most looking forward to about this summer's sessions.

How did you get your start in music?

I was given the role of Calamity Jane in the 5th grade musical and I’ve never looked back! ;) Seriously, I had fantastic elementary school music teachers who inspired a love of music and provided a solid foundation in music literacy that allowed me to continue exploring opportunities for music-making.

How has choral music shaped your career?

I started my career as a middle school music educator where I experienced firsthand the joys and challenges of teaching. My next experience was working for a music retailer which included assisting teachers with choosing materials that would help them find success with their groups, as well as choosing music for several choral reading sessions each year. This work gave me a true appreciation for choral music written for a variety of levels and sizes of choirs. Not every choir is ready to sing SATB divisi a cappella—there’s a huge diversity in the abilities of choirs and it’s important for a teacher to have access to literature that is attainable by their group. This is one reason I am proud to now work for Alfred Music, because I know we take special care to try to address the needs of choirs in all stages of development.

What do you think motivates students?

I believe most students are motivated by high standards, and being shown the path to meeting them. Literature can be such an important factor in that—choosing music that is either too easy or overly ambitious will de-motivate students. Teachers have the tough job of choosing music that challenges, and providing the instruction that brings the singers to a point of achievement.

Do you have any advice for a new teacher, or what is something you wish you knew when you started teaching?

My advice would be the same as for anyone starting any kind of new position—don’t be afraid to ask questions. I wish I had known when I started teaching that I was not expected to have all the answers, and that I would save myself a lot of time and frustration by asking for advice or help. The lovely thing I have learned is that in most situations you will find a mentor or colleague who truly wants to help! Especially among teachers, people want to share their knowledge and help you succeed. Choral reading sessions are a great opportunity for new teachers to connect with veterans, and for everyone to share ideas and inspiration.

What are you looking forward to most about this summer’s choral reading sessions?

Of course I am very excited to introduce some really exciting new choral music and resources! I think there is truly something for everyone in our new release, and being able to sing through it in a group allows you to participate in creating the music and getting a glimpse of what your singers will feel. I really look forward to meeting teachers and talking with them about what’s happening in their classrooms, and hopefully being able to show them tools to meet their needs. It’s a beautiful thing to see teachers taking time out of their summer break to plan and prepare for their upcoming year—I love seeing people get inspired, and the feeling of commaradie and support that teachers share with each other.

To see a full list of choral events, including this year's Celebration of Song! reading sessions, visit our Events page .