Q&A with Choral Instructor Ryan Hebert
Dr. Ryan Hebert is a 45-year-old Choral Instructor and Organist at the University of Tampa. He has been working hard to keep music alive and strong while staying safe from the virus.
How many classes do you teach? What are they?
4 classes: Aural Skills (ear-training, music theory, and singing), Camerata (female ensemble, auditioned), Chamber Singers (mixed choral ensemble, auditioned), and Conducting (teaching students basic techniques of conducting a choir).
What is your favorite part of teaching chorus and why?
I love seeing students go beyond what they think they’re capable of. I like energizing people, and I enjoy teaching students about the real purpose of artistry- creating meaning. I also love the energy that ensemble music provides for singers and audience alike.
What inspired you to teach?
Former teachers. They had the biggest influence on me because I remember being so enamored with their musical skills and success and positive influence on students. I wanted to be the same way.
What are some problems with teaching now that Covid is an issue?
Choir is hard to do with a mask and with social distancing. Synergy is impossible when there is a reduced sense of community. Also, it’s hard to get to know people and choir is such a social experience. Any alternative to in-person, close-by singing falls very short of the magic of chorus!
What part about teaching during a pandemic do you least enjoy?
Seeing people be fearful and getting sick. It’s taken its toll on mental health in ways we’re not fully aware of yet. It’s hard to inspire people when they are fearful.
Do you think students are receiving the same quality of learning being socially distanced?
It’s better, but it’s not great.
What about the fully virtual students?
Not at all. Music doesn’t work well in a virtual situation.
Do you do anything outside of the University?
Yes! I love to write. I have a blog, and I love nature and yardwork. I’m also a church musician, so I stay busy doing a variety of things.
Do you think, if this situation persists, the music program could find better ways to adapt, or do you think the current method is working fine? Why?
Unfortunately, music doesn’t lend itself well in a distanced/virtual way. Music is like athletics. We must rely on our herd instincts as musicians — which vitally depends on community and cooperation in real time/space. The virtual experience loses this, so I fear if this persists in the future, it will decline the quality of our work. I would not be encouraged if this went on indefinitely.
Interview has been edited for brevity, clarity, and style.