The soundproof walls of room 303 block any sound to the outside ear, but inside the classroom, magic happens. The choir teacher, Bryan Gilbey, sits in the center of the room at a grand piano as he runs his students – standing on a crescent of risers – through their many scales and warm-ups.
Gilbey watches his students as they work their hardest to create a charming melody.
“I love getting students to love music, and just seeing the satisfaction on students’ faces when they hold out a harmony,” Gilbey said.
In only two short weeks, the choir room has exploded with talent.
After graduating from Michigan State University in 2018, Gilbey began his teaching career in New Palestine, Indiana before moving back to his hometown of Tecumseh, Michigan where he currently lives with his girlfriend and his cat Jinx.
Now he teaches choir to a variety of 6th through 12th grade students at Stockbridge. The switch between schools has revealed a change in the attitudes of students; the new respect has been a welcome surprise.
“What has blown me away is just how nice every student is regardless of if they are in my class or not,” Gilbey said.
The students have also been impressed by Gilbey’s teaching. They enjoy his creativity and the fun activities they participate in in class.
“I like how we have been doing some games and like team building with our sections,” senior Loki Moscoe said.
Gilbey is extremely excited to share his student’s promising performances with the community. “We are going to try to go perform at the senior center and I am going to try to make an arrangement to go play live in the downtown square,” Gilbey said.
Gilbey’s students are also thrilled for the upcoming live performances. They cannot wait to showcase their hard work with their new teacher leading them.
“I think I am most excited for the concerts and festivals,” senior Abigail Roberts said.
Bryan Gilbey is a great new asset to the Stockbridge staff. His dedication and passion for helping students reach their greatest potential is inspiring. The Stockbridge Choir will be in good hands this year.
