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BEDFORD, N.Y. On any given week during the school year, Matt Solowey, a senior at Fox Lane High School, can be found singing with the Fox Lane High School Chamber Choir Wednesday evenings, the Commoners (the schools male a cappella group) Thursday afternoons and the schools mixed choir daily.
A member of teacher Ed Reiserts choral program, Solowey has participated in the chorus offerings in the Bedford schools ever since he was in the third grade.
Chorus has served as one of the few creative outlets over the course of my lifetime, Solowey said. I have tried to take full advantage of the depth and accessibility of the performing arts department, both inside and outside the classroom. Not only has it shaped me as a student, but it has also given me tools I will use throughout my life.
Knowing what he now knows about singing in high school, Solowey offers up some advice for the young middle and elementary school singers.
Singing is an opportunity to improve as a person as well as a performer regardless of what your life goals are, he said. The performing arts give students a multitude of skills that can be applied to all aspects of life.
The high school choral program has been led by Reisert for the last 12 years. Annually, his vocal students perform more than a dozen concerts.
My connection with my chorus teacher is one of my most authentic and meaningful relationships I have made to date, Solowey said.
Solowey said the rehearsals have a very warm and casual air.
I feel there is no need to make myself into something I am not because I know that we will all be working together to form a cohesive group dynamic, he said. The environment is welcoming and everyone wants to get along, and they do. If the group is happier and closer, then our performances will be that much better.
Solowey will attend the University of Pennsylvania next fall.
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