Audrey Lee (Piano) – Santa Ana Branch
Northwood High School (Class of 2024)
Serving at Love in Music has been more than simply setting up classrooms or teaching students each week. The experience taught me what it means to connect one-on-one with students, how to be flexible based on each student’s learning style and pace, and how to find ways to constantly improve our program.
When I first joined the organization, I was shy and unsure if I could keep students focused through Zoom. Joining amidst the pandemic, I had to be flexible even if I encountered technical difficulties or problems with communication. But music was my main source of comfort, especially throughout the pandemic, and that step I took outside of my comfort zone has been one of the best decisions I made in high school. Though I was the one teaching our students, they too, taught me to be more flexible, to be grateful for seemingly insignificant things, and to approach my work with a positive attitude. I discovered my interest in the education field through Love in Music, and despite the challenges I faced, grew so much as both a teacher and individual. Patience and empathy are two main qualities I developed throughout my time teaching, and those are traits I will continue applying to my life every day.
The radiant smiles of our students on concert day or after playing a piece well constantly reminded me of why I began sharing music, and that’s what led me to continue for four years. I am so grateful to have met such wonderful students and teammates through the program! I hope to have passed on the joy of music with my students, and that they will continue to keep music in their lives.