Students at Fulton’s G. Ray Bodley High School recently had the opportunity to learn from and engage with Dr. Wesley Roy, Assistant Professor of Choral Music Education at SUNY Potsdam. Dr. Roy spent the day visiting music classes, sharing his expertise and offering insights into college-level music study and careers in the arts.

The visit was organized by Vocal Music Teacher Morgan Beaton, who emphasized the importance of connecting students with professionals in the field.

“Bringing people in from the field is so useful to students,” Beaton said. “Not only to talk about their experience but also to help guide students in different perspectives. There are many different paths that students can take beyond high school to achieve the things they want to achieve.”

Throughout the day, Dr. Roy observed rehearsals, offered performance and technique feedback, and led small-group discussions with students interested in pursuing music beyond high school. In more intimate sessions, he spoke about the range of opportunities available in the field — from music education and performance to composition, production, and arts administration.

Dr. Roy’s visit provided students with valuable, real-world perspectives on pursuing their musical passions and highlighted the many ways that music can continue to enrich their lives beyond the classroom.