From singing in a church choir seven years ago to attending the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association regions this past weekend, senior Zach Lieu has always had a love for music.
Lieu’s passion for singing came from his mother, who inspired him to sing for the St. Gabriel Church choir when he was in the fifth grade.
“It was nerve-wracking being surrounded by the older kids,” he said.
As for his most recent singing event, PMEA’s regions is a music festival that requires students to go qualify through a blind audition process. In early January, Lieu secured his spot after performing in the districts division. At regions, he had the opportunity to continue competing to perform at the state-wide level, but has chosen not to because it would interfere with his participation in track.
Senior Callie Siefert, who sings with Lieu in numerous groups, including the B-Side a cappella group, said PMEA is “where the best of the best choir kids come together.” She said Lieu had been practicing relentlessly for the competition.
Lieu said that his favorite part of PMEAs is meeting students from other schools.
“It’s good to be surrounded by kids with the same passion for music that I have,” Lieu said. “It’s a great way to express yourself.”
Senior Anna Plunkett competed with Lieu at PMEAs last year and said the process takes a lot of dedication.
“It’s very time-consuming. You need to know these pieces inside out,” she said.
Plunkett has been singing with Lieu since freshman year. Both participate in numerous music groups, including the B-Side, Baldwinaires, and honors choir.
Plunkett said Lieu’s voice has stood out since they first sang together in Baldwin’s musical Matilda during their freshman year.
“When we were younger, Zach was always naturally talented, but in his freshman year in Matilda, he wasn’t as trained as he is now,” she said. “He has grown into a mature singer. He has such a wide range.”
Siefert, who has sung with Lieu since fifth grade, said he also has become a leader.
“He’s definitely become more of a leader in choir,” Siefert said. “He’s super driven and always wanting to make our pieces better.”
Overall, she said Lieu makes the choir a better group.
“He’s always super positive and pushing everybody else to do better. He just makes the environment better with his personality,” Siefert said.
Lieu is a section leader of the tenors for both honors choir and the Baldwinaires. He said the role gives him an opportunity to help new singers grow and improve their vocals.
“It feels empowering to teach the younger kids just beginning choir, getting to show them the ropes,” he said.
Lieu is a key member of choir class, Plunkett said.
“In class, everyone gravitates towards him,” she said. “He knows what he’s doing and has friendships with many others in the class.”
