Student artist of the month: Andrew Kim ’26

Even with a busy schedule, Andrew Kim ’26 always finds a way to pursue his passion: singing. Kim began to sing at the age of 10, and ever since, music has shaped who he is. Through years of choir and singing with his acapella group, Around 8, as well as Studio Vocals, he has grown and discovered a supportive community, helping him find his voice. He plans to carry his passion with him to college, where he hopes to join an acapella group.

How did you start singing?

I started singing in elementary school. It was a requirement for Community Park. At first I didn’t really think much of it. It was more like my parents told me to do music, and so I did it. But then going to high school, this is where Mr. Metallo opened my eyes to singing. I had so much fun freshman year. And that’s when I started doing more singing.

Do you have any favorite songs? If so, what are they?

We had a song for Studio Vocals. It was called “I’m Gonna Live Until I Die.” Even though I just sang the bass part, like the supporting track, it was so much fun, and I had an amazing time.

Who is your favorite artist?

Right now, I’d say Grant Perez. I really enjoy his music when I’m studying. It has a nice, relaxing vibe.

What is your favorite genre of music? Why?

To sing, I’d say jazz. I think it suits my vocal range, so it sounds better. I [also] listen to jazz, but when I’m doing work or exercising, I like to listen to pop.

What is your favorite memory of being in the PHS Choir?

My favorite memory is definitely going on the trip to Italy. We got to perform at many Gothic buildings. It was so cool to sing with the university students. It was really cool to embrace the culture.

What is has your experience in Around 8 been? When did you join? What inspired you to join? What is your role?

I joined sophomore year. My sister recommended it to me because she thought I’d enjoy it, and I really do enjoy it. This year I’m going to be the music director, so I’ll be leading the group. Usually we have two hour rehearsals twice a week. We will start off with getting to know each other and catching up, then we do vocal warm ups, and then, we get into practicing our songs. We have our back to school performance on September 25, so we’re formulating the songs we want to choose. We usually choose by voting, so each member gets to vote on songs they like after hearing them.

How do you balance school and music?

It’s important to be punctual because when you have a lot on your mind, you can’t really focus on one thing since your mind gets dragged around. Speaking from my sophomore and freshman year experience, managing school and choir was not that big of a burden, especially because I didn’t take that many APs. Junior year was when it really started kicking in, so I struggled a little bit.

Any advice you would give to younger singers?

I think [you] should just try it out and see how you like it. I think for singing, as long as you like it, you can be good at it. I remember in freshman year, I really didn’t think I was adamant auditioning for Around 8 because I knew that there were so many more talented singers compared to me, but I’m glad I took that risk. And so I think for younger singers, you should definitely take that risk, and have a little faith in yourself.

Will you continue to sing after you graduate?

I would definitely continue to sing after graduating. I have a lot of interest in college acapella groups because they’re pretty cool. I might try that out. But other than that, I’m not sure if I’ll really pursue a career in music, although I really enjoy it. I think it’s more of a hobby than a career.