ROB BLANEY - University High School & Ranch san JOAQUIN MIDDLE SCHOOL

​I currently teach vocal music at University High School in Irvine and one section of choir at Rancho San Joaquin Middle School in Irvine.

​I LOVE the energy of the classroom and the opportunity to get to know the students as real people. The biggest hurdle for me this year is that I am at a new school after 10 years. With these changes, however, is enormous potential for growth - building relationships, expanding culture and choir opportunities, and continuing to build on the excellence that was in place before I arrived. ​

Although not necessarily music related, I have quarterly check-ins with my choirs. I call them "circles" and we put the chairs in a circle and take a class to talk. It's a little bit like free therapy... we start with "Hi, my name is _____", and the class responds "Hi _____." Sometimes I have prepared questions like What is your most inspiring class right now? What is bringing you joy? How is life at home? What was your greatest success last semester? What are you looking forward to next semester? Other times students can share whatever is on their heart. Students never have to share. Through the process, students bond, feel empathy and compassion, and share in the triumphs and successes of their peers. 

As we continue to navigate through COVID, I’ve recognized that the emotional well-being of my students is more important than any piece of music we will sing or concept that will be learned. While I want my singers to know good choral rep and music theory, I am most concerned that they exit the program as better humans and ready to live a life full of possibility and not regret. 

The older I get, the more I live in the power of possibility. Instead of responding "I'm not sure" or "Oh, we can't do that", my response is "Why not?" I truly have the best job in the world and can't imagine doing anything else!