By Emily Rivard, Features Editor
“There are just so many people to thank!” Danielle Reed says with a laugh. Although she is just talking about an interview, it’s very possible that she could one day say that exact phrase while accepting a Grammy.
When asked how many instruments she plays, senior Danielle Reed pauses for a minute to think. “My dad counts them, I don’t even keep track anymore,” she laughs.
As a music education major, Reed has successfully combined her hobby for music into both a course of study and a career path.
“I really like music, but I always thought it was my hobby and not a job. I was voted ‘Most Musical’ in my high school and people were so supportive of my performances,” explains Reed.
Aside from the countless instruments she plays, Reed also student teaches music to elementary and middle school students, coaching a variety of classes from sixth grade band to third and fourth grade chorus.
“I really enjoy student teaching. It’s helping me become more assertive and forward thinking.”
While Reed splits her time between student teaching, classes and being an RA in Alliance Hall, she manages to focus on her two main musical interests: voice and oboe. She is a member of the University’s Chamber Singers and will be performing her senior voice recital this Sunday, April 18 at 3 p.m. in the Monroe Lecture Center Theater.
Reed is also the secretary of CIAO, the Cultural Italian American Organization, which sponsors Italian culture-based field trips and networking events.
Although her interests may seem vastly different, Reed believes that everyone has more than one talent.
“It’s interesting to see the combination of talents and intelligences in people. Even if you’re talented with music, you can still be good at other subjects. Don’t be afraid to be a vocalist and an oboist, or a lawyer and a banker—the possibilities are endless!”
Above all, Reed encourages incorporating one’s hobby into daily life.
“Do what you like; if you can’t do only that, combine it with something to make you money!”
Come see Danielle Reed’s Senior Voice Recital on Sunday, April 18th at 3pm in the Monroe Lecture Center Theater.
Senior Danielle Reed uses musical talents to inspire fellow students and has high hopes of starting a career path. (David Gordon/The Chronicle)
