Local Business Spotlight | Allison Schweitzer
NAME
Allison Schweitzer
COMPANY
Pius XI High School
POSITION
Director of Choral Music
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN YOUR FIELD OF WORK?
I play a few different instruments, but as a singer I've been in choirs and a vocal soloist on and off since I was in high school. I sang all four years in college, and have sung locally with The Milwaukee Choristers as well as an early music ensemble called Vox Antiqua. I have directed children's choirs and instrumental groups in a few different places. My master's degree is actually in choral conducting.
WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE think THEY KNOW ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Being a music director does not just mean conducting an ensemble. It means leading many rehearsals, sometimes in sectionals or even individual instruction to work of specific parts. In choral conducting you need to be savvy on piano, so that you can lead from that instrument and accompany while directing, in rehearsals. Most organizations have a budget for an accompanist for concerts and occasionally dress rehearsals; otherwise, the director does it all herself.
NAME ONE THING YOU WISH PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Working in music, we often have "portfolio" careers. I have been a person who's worked multiple gigs at once my entire life. Often at first it's to make ends meet, but I've taken this position because it's a wonderful opportunity to return to a career that I have enjoyed. It will work with and around my live music business.
As an aside, "in the biz" I go by Allison Emm; as a musician/instructor it's Allison M. Schweitzer. ;-)
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I really love working with young people, and conducting. I have learned a lot as a musician and human being, and am grateful to share what I know.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR INDUSTRY?
Get a mentor. Stick with them, and don't be afraid to do their grunt work. They will get you places.
What is the ONE book that you think I should read RIGHT NOW?
The Alchemist
CONTACT ALLISON HERE:
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