It is the end of an era for the Royal Oak Children's Choir! Our long time Artistic Director is stepping down. We wanted to share these remarks, compiled by 2022-2023 ROCC Board Member Rachel Bissett, in honor of the many years Kaitlyn has dedicated to to ROCC as both a performer and an educator! Rachel shared these remarks at our Spring 2023 concert.
As many of you know, Kaitlyn is stepping down as our Artistic Director at the end of this season. Kaitlyn grew up with this choir and the choir really grew up with her. The choir started in 1998. This is actually its 25th year. I’d say that is pretty impressive. Kaitlyn joined the choir as a student when she was 8 years old - like many of your kids on this stage today. At that time, the choir accepted students who were in 4th grade - 7th grade. She participated in the choir through 7th grade. After that she continued with ROCC as a volunteer - assisting at the retreat (something the ROCC did at that time) and at auditions. As a senior in high school, she was able to be an intern under the then Director, Jan Stewart.
After she graduated high school in 2008, she went on to study Musical Theater at Oakland University. While in college she became an assistant director for the choir and was able to assist in both directing and choreography. When she graduated with her Bachelor’s in Fine Arts in 2013 she couldn’t say goodbye to the choir and became our Artistic Director. She’s remained in that position for the last 10 years.
Kaitlyn has put her heart and soul into this choir for so many years and that effort is obvious to anyone who has been a part of this organization over the years. Bono said that “Music can change the world because it can change people.” I think that’s true, and I think that Kaitlyn has changed many of our children’s lives over the years with her creativity, artistry, and devotion. (*turn to Kaitlyn) Kaitlyn - we’re thankful for everything you’ve done for the choir over the years. The choir wouldn’t have become what it is today without you. We wish you all the best in the future.
Enjoy a few of the experiences Kaitlyn made possible for kids of ROCC!
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