FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

Name: ­­­­­­­­­­­­­Kaitlin DeSpain
Title: Associate Director of Choral Studies

Career as an Educator:
• Choral Director at various middle and high schools across West Virginia, Kentucky, and Texas
• Directed concert choirs and pop choirs
• Taught courses in music history, music theory, and piano
Career as a Conductor:
• Collaborated with ensembles at the University of Houston and the University of Kentucky
• Worked with prestigious groups such as the Houston Symphony Chorus and the Symphony of Southeast Texas Chorus
Career as a Performer:
• Experienced with diverse ensembles including collegiate, community, church, and symphony choirs
• Performed with:Renaissance Singers, The Lexington Singers, West Virginia Symphony Chorus, Symphony of Southeast Texas Chorus, Houston Symphony Chorus, Houston Chamber Choir

What is your vision for the future of the University of Houston Choral Department?
"My vision for the UH Choral Department is to maintain the exceptional level of musicianship established by my predecessors while expanding opportunities for singing and learning. I hope to increase the number of singers in the department, form new ensembles that prepare students for professional choral singing, and continue offering travel experiences in the US and abroad."

What strengths and unique abilities are you bringing to the Moores School of Music?
"I think that I bring an excitement for continuous learning. Additionally, I derive energy from working with ensembles, and this enthusiasm creates an invigorating atmosphere where students feel encouraged to contribute their own positive energy."

What is something you want the students to know about you as you begin this new position?
"I'm a Coog too, and I couldn't be more excited to continue contributing to the program that played a huge part in making me who I am today!"