Kaelyn Kang (Flute) – South Bay Branch
South High (Class of 2025)
As I approach the end of my high school journey, volunteering with Love in Music has been a privilege I will never forget. Though I started out only wanting to volunteer, my experiences at LM turned into opportunities of success, growth, and community. Volunteering at Love in Music not only allowed me to make a difference in the lives of others but also impacted my own life in ways I never anticipated.
Throughout my time as a volunteer, I had the opportunity to take on various roles, such as teaching music lessons, serving as an event coordinator, and contributing to newsletters. I worked with amazing volunteers and passionate students. In each of these roles, I learned to be patient, empathetic, and adaptable. Working with students from diverse backgrounds, with varying abilities and experience levels, required me to continually adjust my approach. Some students began with no musical background, while others sought to expand on the skills they already had. Each lesson I crafted was tailored to meet the unique needs of my students, whatever those may have been.
In addition to teaching, I also took on the responsibility of coordinating events for Love in Music. Whether it was organizing small recitals or annual concerts, I learned valuable skills in event planning, teamwork, and time management. Additionally, being part of these events allowed me to witness firsthand the sense of community that Love in Music has grown. The joy and sense of accomplishment from the students and their families have shown me that music plays a vital role in building relationships and fostering community.
This experience has not only enriched my high school years but has also helped me grow as a person. While music is something I’ve always been familiar with, volunteering showed me that it’s much more than just an art form—it’s a place for community, connection, and personal growth. I’m so grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and the relationships I’ve built; I know I will carry these experiences with me as I continue on to college, graduate school, and beyond.