Profile: Angela Batchelor, Training Divisions Program Manager

Angela Batchelor, Training Divisions Program Manager at Brooklyn Youth Chorus, is a proud Brooklyn native who has been with the organization for 21 years. A beloved member of the BYC community, Angela has held a variety of roles over the years and is cherished by both students and faculty alike.

1.  What first drew you to music education, and how did you find your way to Brooklyn Youth Chorus?
In 2004, I was looking for a job and going on interviews. I saw a job posting for the Brooklyn Youth Chorus and thought, " I love Brooklyn, I love children, and I love music, let's give it a try. Turns out, Brooklyn Youth Chorus was the only interview I wasn't nervous about, and I felt an instant calm come over me as soon as I entered the building. I'll never forget that I got a call back for a second interview before I even got home from my first interview!

2.  What’s something people might be surprised to learn about your background?
Something people might be surprised to know is that I was a "Future Farmer of America" in high school and actually wanted to be a mortician or a veterinarian when I grew up.

3.  Can you describe a moment in rehearsal that reminded you why you do this work?
There are so many moments that remind me why I do this work. Mainly, the hugs and appreciation I get from the choristers and families. 

4.  If you had to sum up what kids today need most from a music teacher in three words, what would they be? 
Respect, Honesty, and Kindness

5.  What do you hope your choristers remember about their time with you, years from now?
I hope my choristers always remember that I love them to pieces and that I always will.

6.  What’s one song that instantly lifts your mood—choral or otherwise?
WOW! This is a tough one! There are so many songs that instantly lift my mood, and you would probably have to see my playlists to understand how difficult it is for me to answer this one. I could give you my top 50, but since you're asking for one, I'll give you two specific songs. 1.) Smile, by Kirk Franklin and  2.) In Paradisum, by Gabriel Fauré.

7.  What’s a fun ritual or tradition you bring to your rehearsals?
At the end of every rehearsal, there are two things I always say to the choristers.
1. Manners Matter
2. Do me a favor? Learn something and do something great.

8.  What’s your secret superpower (musical or otherwise)? 
Resilience, Loyalty, and a stong Love for Children

9. You get one day with no responsibilities at all. How are you spending it?
This depends on the season.
Winter > At home, watching TV
Summer > At the beach, pool or on a cruise

Lightning Round (quick responses)

10. Favorite vocal warm-up? Baby Owl & I see you

11. Morning person or night owl? Night owl, most definitely 

12.  Conducting baton or jazz hands? Jazz hands

13.  Coffee, tea, or...? Coffee >> all day, every day!

14.  Most used emoji? 🥰 and ❤️