Artist Spotlight:
Getting to know Rebecca Gatlin: IVCC Singer & A
finalist of the IVCC Idol
Age: 23 years old
How long have you been singing? Since before I could even talk... strike
that... singing is built on the foundation of speech skills, so I guess I
started doing them at the same time.
Have you ever taken voice lessons or had training? I began taking formal
vocal lessons when I was 10 years old and have managed to obtain 8 years of
formal training. I also gave vocal lessons for 2 years. I have performed in
front of groups of over 20,000 people in both small and large singing groups as
well as solo performances.
What are your future plans in regards to singing? Among other things, I
intend to pursue a career in vocal performance, starting with theater
productions at IVCC and the Court Street Cabaret.
Thoughts on the IV Idol contest? For me, IVCC Idol was one way of
releasing the energy that I had reserved all year (since I was unable to perform
with the theater department for “Schoolhouse Rock!” earlier in the semester).
Nervousness wasn't an issue, although, I have to admit that being scrutinized by
a judging panel gave me a bit of a queasy feeling (even though they actually
went relatively easy on me). I saw the contest as an opportunity to be
recognized by the community as someone who is goal-oriented and optimistic about
their musical talents. I figured that it might grant me adequate visibility
within the community and among the students and faculty of IVCC to ensure that I
would have more opportunities offered to me as a growing musical performer. It's
a stepping stone... I'm no American Idol, but you just never know if you'll see
me next season!