For Grade 12 student Kayte R., life is all about finding the right rhythm. As a member of the Langley Ukulele Senior A Ensemble, she has spent her senior year balancing performances, teaching, and international travel!
- Strumming Through the Screen
Kayte’s journey began in 2020. Because it was the middle of COVID, she had to audition over Zoom and was accepted into the Intermediate A Ensemble.
“I started with the group in 2020 when I was in Grade 6… Then I moved into Senior A two years later and joined the teaching program.”
The ensemble has a 28-year standing residency at the Sheraton Waikiki in Oahu, Hawaii, and Kayte has travelled with the group for three years. But the travel doesn’t stop there!
This summer, they are travelling to headline the Ukulele Festival of Great Britain!
Kayte shares that she truly enjoys “performing with my friends while serving the community and learning about music.”
Here’s a video from their 2023 Hawaii Tour:
- Passing the Pick
Kayte isn’t just a performer; she’s also a teacher! She joined the teaching program to help with spring break and summer camps, weekly Junior Groups, and her own private students. Through this experience, she has gained valuable life skills:
“I have learned professionalism on and off stage. Our director teaches us that we are ambassadors for our group, our city, and our country.”
Her director also emphasizes the importance of public image, teaching that “the next generation brings hope for the future.”
The ensemble is staying busy; they are recording a new album in Spring 2026! Check out their work through the links below:
- Website: langleyukes.com
- Spotify: Listen here
- Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube
- Video Recommendations
- Tuning Into Teaching
Being at HCOS gives Kayte the freedom to pursue her passion at a high level. She explains:
“Being at HCOS gives me more time and flexibility to rehearse and perform… I can attend those events without worrying about missing school.”
This fall, Kayte plans to attend Trinity Western University to become an elementary school teacher. She is ready to take her musical background into the professional world:
“My experience in Langley Ukulele Ensemble has given me a good foundation of teaching experience, so I am excited to apply what I’ve learned in future classrooms.”
Congratulations on your travelling adventures, Kayte, and we look forward to seeing what your future as a teacher holds!
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Let’s continue celebrating the incredible students of HCOS who are redefining what education can look like.
