Shelley McKenzie has taken on the role of BHS choir director this year, along with teaching music at Bryden and the middle school, after the retirement of Darlene Haight in June.

McKenzie is in her fourteenth year teaching music and her ninth year in Beachwood City Schools. Before this year, she taught music at Bryden for kindergarten up to the second grade.

“This is my first year doing all three buildings, so I’ve definitely been learning new things as I’ve been going to all three buildings,” McKenzie said. “It’s been going well, and I like the variety of teaching all the way from kindergarten up to high school.”

McKenzie, who has been singing and playing piano since she was young, explained why she became a music teacher.

“I thought teaching kids music would be a great way to share my love of music with them and inspire them from a young age,” she said. 

When she first came to Beachwood nine years ago, McKenzie knew it was one of the best communities in the area for music education. She was drawn to the district by the value it places on music and the arts. 

In October, McKenzie looks forward to field trips with the band and orchestra to Severance Hall, in addition to other optional concerts throughout the year.

“We will be preparing for our cabaret concert, which will be held in December,” she said. “It’s an annual concert that features all of the choirs in the district.” 

Moreover, the high school choir will prepare for their spring concert in May, completing their year with many exciting events.

“I’m excited to take on this new role,” McKenzie said. “I’m excited to work with the group that we have and hear their vocal development and progression throughout the year.”