AFA News

AFA Faculty Artist Amy Moore is the Artistic Director and Conductor of the Houston Girls Chorus. She is in her 21st year of teaching and her sixteenth year as a middle school head director in the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District. She is currently the head director at Salyards Middle School in Cypress, Texas.

What was your introduction to music?

AM: My dad was a college choir director and my mom taught elementary music and middle school choir, so my introduction to music happened the day I was born. There was never a time in my life when music did not play a key role. I spent my youth taking piano lessons, participating in city-wide auditioned choirs (like the HGC), playing oboe in band and orchestra, performing in musical theater productions, and (of course) being a part of every choir I could possibly find. My life was not about whether I would be in music but rather, what direction music would take me.

When did you know you wanted to be a music educator?

AM: My decision to commit to music education happened in college. I pursued a degree in music but had thoughts of performing as well as teaching. By the time I was in my third year, I had made the decision to pursue teaching after I graduated. I began as an elementary music specialist and quickly transitioned to secondary choir director.

Do you have a favorite genre you like to perform or program?

AM: I could not possibly name a favorite genre either as a teacher, a conductor, or as a performer. Throughout my life, I have done everything from opera to jazz to major works for choir to musical theater to traditional choral music. Every single form of music offers opportunities for teaching and learning new aspects about the art of music and singing. The best music is produced when performers utilize their best technique, regardless of what style is being performed. That is the key to enjoying all forms of music.

What would be your advice to a young musician thinking about a career in the arts?

AM: My advice would be to take every opportunity to perform and learn that you can. Experience truly is the best teacher and I draw from my many years of experience every day as a teacher and performer. Work in every genre possible and draw from those experiences to build your confidence and skill.

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

AM: Unquestionably, it is the students! Working with middle and high school students has to be the most entertaining job in the world. I laugh every day in my job because my students bring such happiness and hilarity into the rehearsal room. Music is something kids choose to do and they are excited to be present and singing every possible second they can. My students are a constant source of entertainment and joy!

What would you say to your 13-year-old self?

AM: Don’t wait for opportunities to come your way. Go out and find opportunities that will bring you happiness and further your goals in life.