[quote]By Drew Danko
Online Editor
Photo courtesy of Taylor Moran[/quote]

How did it feel singing in the Little Friends of Lights Parade in Downtown Naperville?

It felt so rewarding to sing in the parade. Seeing everyone’s faces light up with all of the holiday music really warmed my heart.

How were you chosen to sing in the parade?

I was chosen by Mr. Bramstedt at the beginning of the year to sing for the parade.

What do you like about singing?

The thing that I enjoy most about singing is the impact it has on me. I can express my emotions and passion through music in a way that words can’t.

Has being deaf in one year posed any challenges with being a singer?

Being deaf in one ear has posed some challenges with singing. Instead of learning by hearing how the notes sound, I have to learn through feeling. In other words, I rely on the muscle memory to place my voice in the correct spot, and still sing healthily.

How do you learn by muscle memory?

Ultimately, if there’s a slight change in vocal tone quality that I need to make, I am usually not able to hear it. I rely on my vocal chords and the placement of my soft and hard palettes to create a more colorful, or brighter tone.

What was the biggest event you have ever sung in?

The biggest event I have performed at was probably for The American Songbook Academy this past July. I was one of 40 high school students chosen from around the country to come and sing at this competition, and I met so many amazing people there.