Spotlight on Students is a feature that showcases WYWLA students 

and cool experiences they've had and/or recognitions received.

This month, we highlight 8th grader Lillian Schauffhauser and Kathleen Poulin!

How often do you practice, and what does a typical session look like?

I practice every day, and I typically work on songs I’ve been listening to or things my music teacher has taught me. Practicing daily helps me stay consistent and improve a little bit each time.

Have you ever performed in front of an audience? What was that experience like?

I have performed in front of an audience multiple times at summer camps, and each time was fun. I did get nervous before, but once I started playing, I enjoyed the experience.

What does playing guitar mean to you personally?

Playing the guitar allows me to express myself and encourages others to find interest in music.

Do you plan to keep playing after high school, maybe in college or professionally?

 I do not plan to play the guitar professionally, but I would be interested in pursuing singing. I still want to keep guitar as something I enjoy doing for myself.

What advice would you give to someone just starting on guitar?

I would tell them not to give up, even if it feels frustrating at first. With practice, it gets easier and more enjoyable.

What made you want to start playing guitar, and how long have you been playing?

I decided to start playing the guitar at the end of the summer because I was bored. I’ve been playing for a few months, and it has become something I really enjoy.

Was there a specific moment or person that inspired you to pick up the guitar?

My mom inspired me to pick up the guitar since she had the idea for me a few years ago. When I finally tried it, I realized how much I liked it.

How does playing guitar make you feel when you’re performing or practicing?

It makes me feel calm and helps me be more confident in myself.

What’s the hardest part about learning guitar, and how did you overcome it?

 The hardest part about learning the guitar was figuring out how to form my fingers. I got better at it with practice, and now it feels easier.

How has your playing changed or improved since you first started?

I’ve gotten better at putting rhythm into chords and incorporating emotion in songs.

What inspired you to start dancing in this style?

I started dancing because my sisters were doing Scottish dancing. I watched them a lot, and it looked so fun, so I decided to take classes.

What is your favourite part of Scottish dancing?

 I really like the people. Everyone is very supportive, and it feels like a close community. Dancing with others who enjoy the same thing makes it even better.

Have you ever performed? If so, what do you do to prepare?

Yes, I’ve done a lot of performances and competitions. I usually prepare by going over the dances in my head, and I also like listening to really loud music because it helps me focus.

Do you get nervous when in front of a crowd? If so, what do you do to help you stay calm? 

I definitely get anxious, like right before I perform, but what helps me is pretending I’m confident even if I’m not. 

Share a funny story from your dancing experience?

In one of my dances, literally called the sword dance, we dance over a pair of crossed swords. I was in a competition, and I accidentally kicked my sword across the stage, and then it crashed into someone else’s swords, and both of us ended up getting disqualified from that dance. It was kind of embarrassing at the time, but funny to think back on.

If you were to advise your past self, what would you say?

I would tell myself to stop comparing yourself to everyone else and focus on you.

 How do you balance your school life with your dance life?

For me, balancing both isn’t too hard. I usually try to get all my homework done first, so I don’t have to stress about it later. Once that is out of the way, I can focus on dance and enjoy it.

Who is a dancer who inspires you and why?

My dance teacher inspires me because she always encourages me to improve and shows me what hard work is really like.

What challenges have you faced in dancing, and how have you overcome them?

 I used to doubt myself a lot and would compare myself to others. I overcame it by focusing on myself and my progress. 

What motivates you to keep dancing?

Watching other dancers motivates me. Seeing what they can do makes me want to push myself too.