Mrs. Huyett began her involvement with the Phoenix Children’s Chorus in 2006. Her first role with the organization was as a Prep Choir parent and soon thereafter as a music literacy instructor. She became the Prep Choir director in 2008.
Mrs. Huyett is originally from the mid-west but considers Arizona her home. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Iowa and a Master of Arts in Education: Administration and Supervision from the University of Phoenix.
Mrs. Huyett lives in Chandler with her husband Greg, and her daughter Rachel (who has sung with Prep, Cadet, Concert and Bravo Choirs).
Active participants in the choir programs find friendship, meaningful relationships, travel and a sense of community through their participation.
Mrs. Huyett feels that she can teach children to be better human beings through choral music. It is almost impossible to be thinking of themselves while actively participating. It is truly a place to belong and be accepted. Participants receive a world class music education. She was personally impressed when her daughter entered the program. Since she, as a teacher, considers herself to be an education "snob," her being impressed with the quality of the instruction was an indication that it was truly excellent. She enthusiastically became part of the team.
Mrs. Huyett said the administrative staff is excellent. The program is very well run. The organization is like a caring family. In addition to the youth finding their best friends in the organization, many of the parents find close friendships through their own involvement with other parents. The choirs perform locally at beautiful and challenging venues. Many outside groups ask for them to perform. What creates lasting memories for many of the students are the opportunities to participate in touring choirs. The memories of the planned activities are great, but what is overwhelming is what she calls "tour moments" that could not possibly be planned, but just happen. One such moment happened in New York when the choir was touring the 9/11 Memorial, and stopped everything around them when they spontaneously performed, singing from their hearts. Another such moment was on a tour to Australia, when the choir was in a rustic building and they had local musicians crying when the choir actually knew and beautifully delivered a performance of "Waltzing Matilda."
During those special moments, members sing from their hearts. Each gives a piece of their soul resulting in unimaginable connections with their listeners.
Costs of involvement are high. There is tuition, uniforms, and tour costs. PCC does fundraising to keep costs to students as low as possible, but also to scholarship youth with limited means so they are not excluded from participation. They have an intern program. There is an audition process to get into the choir program.
Members and guests were encouraged to visit the Phoenix Children's Chorus website and Facebook page.
Donna Goetzenberger shared links to two You-Tube Videos of PCC Choir performances:
Phoenix Children's Chorus German Lullaby
2015 PCC Argentina/Uruguay Choir Tour