From Choir Kid to... What Now?

What am I supposed to do with all of this talent? Seriously, I’ve been a choir kid for most of my life—from the first grade through my senior year of college. That’s over two decades of warm-ups, harmonies, and endless hours spent perfecting the Soprano II line. And now? Now I’m just... here, with vocal chords trained to hit every note of “O Holy Night” and nowhere to use them.

The holidays always remind me of my choir days. Starting in September every year, the holiday songs would take over rehearsals. From Jingle Bells to Carol of the Bells, we drilled every note and breath for the Christmas assemblies and shows. By the time December rolled around, I could sing holiday songs in my sleep. And not just the classics—I mean every arrangement, every key change, every obscure second verse.

Now that I’m no longer in choir, I can’t help but feel a little lost in life. What do you do with years of musical training when your only audience is yourself in the car or the occasional karaoke night? Don’t get me wrong, I own karaoke when I get the chance, but it’s not quite the same as performing in front of a crowd or being part of something bigger.

The Choir Kid Struggle

Being in choir wasn’t just about singing; it was about discipline, teamwork, and artistry. It taught me how to listen—not just to the music, but to the people around me. It gave me an outlet for creativity and self-expression. And now, without it, I feel like all of that talent and experience is just... there, collecting dust.

I think a lot of former choir kids feel this way. We spent years refining a skill that doesn’t easily translate to everyday life. Sure, I can harmonize to a pop song on the radio or sing a killer descant in church, but it’s not the same as being part of a choir and working toward something beautiful together.

What’s Next?

Maybe it’s not about what I do with my talent, but about how I let it enrich my life. Singing doesn’t have to be for an audience—it can be for me. Whether it’s belting out holiday songs in the shower or serenading friends at karaoke with all three verses of Silent Night, I can still find joy in my voice.

And who knows? Maybe there’s a community choir in my future. Or a random talent show. Or just a lifetime of knowing I can hit that high note in O Holy Night like it’s nobody’s business.

To my fellow former choir kids: what do you do with your vocal skills now? How do you keep the magic alive? Let’s share some ideas and memories in the comments! 

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Alejandraaaaaaaaaa