Teacher Feature: Christopher Loftin

• Christopher Loftin
• Posted 5/14/21
• 0 comments

Get to know our authors.  In our ”Teacher Feature,” you will not only learn about our authors’ professional endeavors but also get to know them as humans too.  Just like our readers – our authors are actively teaching in schools across the United States  .  

Christopher Loftin is a Graduate Teaching Assistant and Ph.D. Choral Music Education student at Auburn University. His research focuses on bringing authentic, believable performances to the choral music stage and systems of student leadership in the choral ensemble. Christopher holds a Bachelor of Science in Choral Music Education from the University of Alabama and a Master of Education from the University of Montevallo. Christopher is also an active barbershop singer, performer, performance coach, and clinician. He has coached ensembles from the US, Germany, Canada, and Australia. He is a sought-after choral adjudicator, clinician, and festival preparatory consultant. 

Some other interesting facts we learned about Christopher     

How did you end up becoming a music teacher? 

I always knew that I wanted to be a music teacher. I’ve been in piano or voice lessons since I was 5, and I knew that I had a love for sharing the heart and humanity of music with the world. 

Did a teacher influence your decision to enter education?  

The two biggest teacher influences were Dr. Naomi Brown, my piano teacher for 14 years, and Lynne Jebeles, one of my high school choir directors.  

What inspires you to share your experiences with other teachers?  

The ability that we have as music teachers to make a positive difference in the lives of our students and community. Research and experience are only good if we share it.  

What is your favorite music teaching moment?  

Starting a choir at a second-chance alternative school and having students share their love of music to our community! In 2 years, I had 25% of the school in my choir because they finally had a healthy form of self-expression. 

What has been the biggest surprise/revelation about being a music teacher? 

 I am always amazed by students. Every time I set the bar higher than I think, they surpass it. One of the biggest limits we place on students is one we place on them. I wish I had known this when I started teaching 15 years ago.  

How do you deal with stress?  

I have a patio herb and vegetable garden. Cooking is my therapy! 

Fun Facts About Christopher   

What is your favorite food?  

Sushi (The more adventurous, the better.) 

Do you have any pets?  Tell us about them.  

I have a 10-year old tuxedo cat named Leopold. He loves belly rubs and naps and plays fetch. Yes, he is a Cat-Dog. 

What is your favorite style of music to listen to?  

Barbershop! I have been a Barbershop singer and coach for almost a decade. I am now training to be a certified Performance judge in the Barbershop Harmony Society. 

What is your favorite school appropriate beverage – are you a cola or coffee drinker?  

I have at least one iced coffee every day, no matter the season. 

What is your favorite book?  

Inner Game of Music by Barry Green 

If you could be a superhero, who would you be and why?  

Although I think teachers are the greatest superheroes, I would be Steven Universe. I am a nerdy musician who found the love of his life early in life (high school choir) and does everything in his power to make this world a better place. 

We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know Christopher! Check out his Music ConstructED articles below.