Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyra Stahr.
Hi Kyra, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in a household where music was not just a part of life—it was the fabric of our family. With my mom as a public school music teacher (who earned her doctorate when I was in high school), my dad as a trumpet player in the U.S. Army Band, and my sister as one of my biggest role models, I was constantly surrounded by inspiring musicians who shaped my journey. Together, they encouraged me to pursue my passion for music, providing unwavering support as I grew into a singer, educator, and conductor. I would not be where I am today without them and my incredible husband.
Over the years, my career has been guided by a commitment to empowering singers to embrace their potential with confidence and fostering community through the transformative power of choral music. After completing my undergraduate studies in Music Education and Vocal Performance at Miami University, I taught high school in Northern Virginia. Wanting to become the best teacher-conductor possible for my students, I returned to graduate school. I earned my MM in Choral Music at USC, where I took on leadership roles as a conductor and advocate for choral music. I now serve as a DMA candidate in Choral Conducting at the University of Miami Frost School of Music, directing the advanced treble choir, assisting with our premiere SATB choir, and teaching choral conducting all while balancing my role as Assistant Conductor of Seraphic Fire, guest clinician, and presenter.
My work has extended beyond the podium through conduct(her), a podcast I co-founded with my sister to amplify the voices of women and allies in choral conducting. It has grown into a thriving platform that explores the challenges of gender equity in the field while celebrating the achievements of those who inspire change.
At the heart of everything I do is a mission to connect people through song, create inclusive spaces where all voices are celebrated, and inspire courage and authenticity in every performance. I’m excited to continue this journey and see where it leads next.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey to where I am today has been vibrant and full of twists and turns. Along the way, I’ve been shaped by incredible mentors, inspiring students, wonderful colleagues, and a series of challenges that tested my resolve and fueled my growth as a teacher and conductor.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that rejection is often a redirection. I didn’t get into the master’s program I had hoped for on my first try, but instead of giving up, I used that time to reapply and pursue a full-time program that ended up being a better fit. Moving across the country multiple times and navigating the uncertainties of chasing a career I love hasn’t always been easy. Some days are tough—you don’t get selected for the opportunity, or you leave the podium feeling like you could have done better.
But every step, both the successes and the setbacks, has been an essential part of the journey. In hindsight, I see how even the hardest moments helped me grow, leading me to where I am today. And now, I know without a doubt that I am exactly where I’m meant to be.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a conductor, educator, and passionate advocate for creating engaging and inclusive choral communities. From a young age, I was captivated by the transformative power of choral music—a passion that has shaped my journey and continues to inspire my work. I specialize in choral conducting and aspire to teach at the collegiate level, where I can direct choirs, teach conducting, and mentor the next generation of musicians.
One of my proudest achievements is the opportunity to work with singers at all stages of their journey, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether mentoring pre-service teachers, collaborating with professional ensembles, or leading community groups, I am deeply committed to helping singers find their authentic voices and connect with one another through music. My work is also rooted in a dedication to accessibility and equity in choral music, ensuring that this art form reaches and reflects the richness of diverse audiences and participants.
What I love most about my role is witnessing the incredible growth of my students. Guiding them to discover their potential, build self-confidence, and create meaningful impact through music is what drives me every day.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was tenacious, confident, and always eager to take the lead, constantly finding creative ways to express myself. I had a deep love for visual art, softball, theater, music, and socializing. These activities reflected my extroverted personality and commitment to giving my all, traits which have been instrumental in shaping my success as a musician. I was raised to stand up for my beliefs, which has always fueled my determination and individuality.
One story that perfectly captures my younger self: I remember buying a pair of oversized hoop earrings with a friend and deciding they were the perfect accessory for picture day. My parents disagreed, insisting they weren’t appropriate for the photo. Undeterred, I slipped them into my pocket, put them on just before the picture, and wore them proudly. When my parents saw the photo later, I had no regrets. That moment sums me up well—confident, self-assured, and unafraid to make a statement, even as a kid.
Contact Info:
- Website: kyrastahr.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_kyrastahr/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyra.m.klontz
Image Credits
Grace Rafferty, Yu Hang Tan
