KENT ISLAND — In Episode 16, Reanna Sherman takes center stage as a crescendo of inspiration on the February 1st episode of “ArtScene | the Podcast.” A rising star in Maryland’s music education scene, Sherman’s journey from being a mid-year middle school hire during COVID to becoming Kent Island High School’s award-winning Choir Director is tremendous.
Stepping into the shoes of widely respected, longtime Kent Island High Choir Director Luke Whitehair after he made the move to direct Queen Anne’s County High’s Choir was no easy feat either. Yet, in one triumphant year, Sherman has produced three All-State Senior Chorus medalists, headed to perform in Baltimore this February, and this is a testament to her commitment to getting students to reach new heights together.
Sherman’s unique approach to teaching involves instilling a deep sense of dedication in her students, making them an embodiment of the passion she pours into her role as their Choir Director. A trailblazer as the first Music Education graduate from Washington College, and accolades that include earning top honors in her class and being recognized by the Maryland State Department of Education as a “Teachers of Promise” honoree in 2019, her story echoes in every note.
Sherman also shares insights into the groundbreaking South County Combined Choir Concert, a district-wide initiative spanning grades 3 – 8, fostering community and leadership within the high school Chorus.
“It’s only going to get better the more of them that we do. Students who were in middle school during the first combined choir concert that are now freshmen can even step into a leadership role while still being new to the high school Chorus,” shared Sherman.
Reflecting on her creative journey, she draws inspiration from diverse sources, which began back in high school, as a former AP Studio Art student turned singer, performer, and teacher. She shares how she continues to sing in Luke Whitehair’s church chorus, learning from him as a mentor and experiencing ensemble dynamics from the students’ perspective.
“The Concert Choir is the perfect example of what it looks like to be vulnerable,” Sherman notes, emphasizing the importance of creating a space where students can express themselves freely. As she continues to shape musical leaders and inspire belief, Sherman’s impact on the Kent Island High School community resonates far beyond the realm of music education.
Reflecting on why she’s so student-centered, Ms. Sherman shared that “There is a whole lot of pressure and emotions that come with being a high school student today, so everything I do is for them, and I always want to paint them in a good light, no matter what it is. I want to be a source of trust and protection for them—be that kind of teacher that they come to when they’re not doing well…”
Tune in to listen to Reanna Sherman’s February 1st interview on “ArtScene | the Podcast” on Spotify or at: https://anchor.fm/artscene. Also available on iTunes, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your favorite podcast.
