Today we’d like to introduce you to Bethany Perkins
Hi Bethany, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am a daughter of musicians and music educators. I went to school for classical vocal performance and studied piano my whole life as well. I intended to become an opera star, but suffered a health setback from a benign brain tumor that put me out of commission for larger performances throughout my twenties. Instead, I performed on a smaller scale and taught piano and voice lessons, as well as directed choirs and musical theater. I really developed a love for teaching and bringing out the best in my students.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Teaching music came easily due to my upbringing and training, but my health was a big challenge. I was deeply frustrated by my lack of energy and inability to work and perform as much as I wanted to. However, for the past seven years or so my tumor has been shrinking and the difference is remarkable. I have loads of energy by comparison, though I still have symptoms. It feels like a new life.
As I was starting to feel better I found myself in an emotionally abusive marriage that was very difficult and limiting in a different way. I am now an advocate and sister survivor for Finding Our Voices, a domestic abuse survivors’ advocacy group.
I think that the challenges I’ve faced really inform my teaching and the way that I move in the world. I never forget that everyone is going through something. I have an organization called Solutionary Arts of New England that performs concerts to benefit and uplift important causes.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a classical vocalist and pianist, and I teach choirs and music lessons. I am known for my ability to sing or play whatever is given to me as sheet music on the spot, which is known as sight reading. So that’s my superpower as a performer. As a teacher and director, I’m known for being both effective and fun. I love music and want it to be a fun experience and also a fruitful and encouraging one. I’m proud that I’m viewed as being an accepting and supportive director, and for the work my groups do, including our fundraising for important causes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://317main.org
- Instagram: @solutionaryartsne
- Other: https://Newbrackettchurch.org
Image Credits
Photo 2: St Mary Schola Flyer