In her time at Newman, junior Talia Powers has made impressive strides toward her future medical career and musical opportunities. Powers is working toward a biology major with a concentration in pre-med, as well as minors in both chemistry and music.
Aside from her studies, Powers is active on the Cheer & Dance Team, a member of Chorale and Troubadours, a teacher’s assistant and the secretary of Hispanic American Leadership Organization, so she’s constantly engaged with extracurriculars.
One of her greatest passions is music; she possesses an innate talent and deep respect for singing.
At the heart of the music
Powers’ passion for music has developed over the course of her life, starting from when she was a child.
“I have been singing in choirs for about 12 years now,” said Powers, “and have been taking voice lessons since my freshman year of high school. I have loved singing since I was a little kid; I loved singing at church on Sundays and first officially started singing in my 4th-grade choir.”
Eventually, Powers’ interest in singing would influence her college decision.
“I auditioned to be in Troubadours my senior year of high school. It was actually one of the reasons I decided to come to Newman.”
Now that she is studying and singing at Newman, she is grateful for the opportunities her mentor has given her to further develop her vocal skills.
“My time in the music department has further developed my vocal skills because of the hard work that is put into our chorale and troubadour rehearsals. Our music director Deanne Zogleman constantly pushes me and the other chorale members to work hard, which has strengthened my voice immensely. I am blessed to take voice lessons with Deanne, which has really widened my vocal range. Through the musicals, I am able to really act out the songs that I sing, which takes the music to a different level.”
A musical movement
Powers’ talents have not only brought her onto Newman’s stage, but also into venues across Wichita.
“This summer I was able to sing the national anthem at the beginning of a couple of Wichita Wind Surge baseball games. This was such an amazing opportunity, and it is the largest audience that I have sung for. A few weeks ago, I was asked to sing the national anthem at the beginning of the Salvation Army Community Leadership Breakfast, which was a huge honor. I also sing at weddings, funerals and at church every weekend.”
Music encompasses the essence of life and it is something that connects everyone. It has a way of expressing emotions that you are not able to put into words.”
Talia Powers
Throughout these many opportunities, Powers has developed a strong philosophy on the meaning and purpose of music.
“To me, music encompasses the essence of life and it is something that connects everyone. It has a way of expressing emotions that you are not able to put into words, and the act of performing music is very cathartic. I use music as an outlet for the stresses that I may have in day-to-day life, and use it as a way to express myself.”
Powers also mentioned that the music department is working toward their first performance.
“Currently, chorale is preparing for our fall concert that will be held on Oct. 24, which features a wide range of songs from ballads to folk songs to gospel music — you won’t want to miss it. Coming soon, there will also be auditions for the upcoming winter musical that has yet to be announced, which is very exciting!”
Earn a Minor in Music
Our music minor complements a wide range of majors in the institution, giving you a competitive advantage with future employers.
