Interview w/ Mrs. Burkemper (blog post #6)

I interviewed Mrs. Burkemper, the school choir director, because since she has a strong passion for music and has studied it for her entire life. I have also heard many great things about her and how her love for music really does rub off on others, which makes her a good target to interview. These are all what makes her a reliable source. 


- I interviewed Mrs. Burkemper through e-mail and she responded with great responses very quickly.

1. Can certain genres of music have an affect on your moods? 

Absolutely-  music can convey so many different emotions.  It can bring you to a past time and a place, bringing past memories to light.  Research has shown that classical music can help provide focus or relaxation. 

2. Does music have an impact on your life personally?

Absolutely!  It is what I do for a living and has been the main focus for me since middle school at least.  My husband is a music teacher and some of my closest friends are musicians and music teachers.  It is my passion, my career, and my pastime.

3. What type of music do you enjoy and why? Has it always been that way?

I teach all styles of music (classical, jazz, gospel, languages, folk, rock, pop, broadway, etc).  I enjoy studying classical music (ancient to 20th century).  I enjoy listening to Top 40.  I am a huge Dave Matthews Band fan.  What I enjoy listening to has definitely evolved.  I listen to more choral music because of what I do.

4. Can good and bad influences come out of listening to music? 

That’s a tough question.  I would argue that good influences come out of music definitely- it has a lasting impact on performers and the audience.  I believe that bad influence comes from the person and the choices they make, not the music they listen to, but that is just my opinion and not based on fact or research!

5. Which genre of music do you prefer to listen to when you're happy, or sad?

Really, anything that feels good at the time.  I like mello acoustic music (singer/songwriter coffee house type stuff) but sometimes Bon Jovi helps me rock out. 

6. When do you usually choose to listen to music? 

In the car is when I listen most.  I always have to have the radio on or my iPod plugged in.

7. When did your interest in music spark?

Age 6 when I started playing piano and it went from there.  Violin, clarinet, and always singing.

8. How does sharing your love for music with others bring joy to you?

I get to share my love of music and see it instilled in them.  I see how much they love music through their performances and their desire to continue singing after high school!