CLASS OF 2021
Featuring Jonathan Coleman
Remarkable! Resilient! Revolutionary!
STUDENT INTERVIEWS WITH THE CLASS OF 2021
The Burbank Arts & Education Foundation is proud to highlight students in the CLASS OF 2021 who have been part of the robust STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programs in the Burbank Unified School District classrooms. We hope you enjoy reading about their experiences and getting to know them as we celebrate an important milestone in their lives: high school graduation.
Today, we present to you Jonathan Coleman, who attends Burbank High School and found his passion in choir and dance. He plans to work toward a BFA in Musical Theater at San Diego State University.
“Choir and dance programs taught me to master reading music, conquer choreography, improve vocal intonations, be more responsible, improve my time management, and agree to disagree in a respectful manner.”
My name is Jonathan Bryce Coleman, I am 18 years old, and I attend Burbank High School.
Which artistic medium(s) do you most like to use to express yourself?
Since birth, my mom recounts stories of me making cooing sounds that resembled music and always kicking my legs as if I were dancing. At age five, I auditioned and made the Lakewood Church youth choir in Houston, Texas. It was there that I began to really enjoy music. Wanting to sing daily, mom recommended I audition for my elementary after school choir. When the list went up, and I saw my name, my screams of joy could be heard throughout the building. Dance was next on my list.
Describe your first experience with the arts while in the Burbank Unified Schools.
My family moved to Burbank in August of 2016, just as I was entering eighth grade. Looking up schools, I was excited about the choir program at John Muir Middle School. In December, I auditioned and was placed in Imaginations. When school began in January, Mrs. Lee explained that we had Saturday practices. Having no idea as to why we needed to practice six hours, mom packed my snacks and lunch then dropped me off. WOW was I surprised that we were an actual “Show Choir” with professional choreographers. At the end of 8th grade, I auditioned for the Show Choir at Burbank High. To my great surprise, I made In Sync (the top choir) as a Freshman. This has been life-changing and enhanced my love of the performing arts.
What art experience in school are you most proud of and how did it impact you?
During my sophomore year, I auditioned for the lead role in the “In Sync” set Trapped. When my choir director told me I secured the role, it felt like a dream come true. Could I really be the lead for the nationally award-winning choir? That year (Spring 2019) Burbank High School’s Show Choir surpassed the odds and became the most winning choir in the history of the program. We had an undefeated season and won Nationals in Ohio. While I was the lead, each member contributed to the success. We became closer during the countless hours of practice, improved in vocal training led by Mr. Brett Carroll and took choreography to the next level through training with award-winning professionals April James and Randy Sage. After the season, I knew I wanted to major in musical theatre in college. Choir and dance programs taught me to master reading music, conquer choreography, improve vocal intonations, be more responsible, improve my time management, and agree to disagree in a respectful manner.
What other activities did you participate in at high school?
I served on the BUSD Mental Health Board and I was on the BHS varsity volleyball team. Serving on the BUSD Mental Health Board has been an honor over the past few years. Due to Covid, our meetings have been via Zoom with each of us taking a platform to address. We assisted with Wellness Week, met with school board member Dr. Emily Weisberg, and discussed the student resource officer’s role. I’ve learned that many students suffer from mental illness. Most of the time the pressures of school, family commitments, and Covid-19 restrictions and/or fear of such were discussed in our meetings. I’ve learned that no one should feel alone and it’s vital we provide a safe space for students who become overwhelmed.
How did participating in volleyball contribute to your high school experience?
Teamwork, commitment, bonding and chemistry have been instilled in me by the older players. As a two-year captain (although our season was cut short last year), I’ve learned to continue the traditions set before me. My goal is to continue playing volleyball in college as I love the sport. This is 100% a team activity. As we move around the court, watching, paying close attention to others, and being ready at all times is vital. I’ve learned that proper communication, remaining fit, listening to coaches, watching film, and practice, practice, practice is the only way one will master the sport. In life, following directions, being an active listener, always willing to improve, and working as a TEAM are lessons I will take from volleyball and apply to everything I do.
What advice do you have for younger students?
Many of my close friends are underclassmen. Through Burbank High School Choir, Unleashed Dance Team, serving on the BUSD Mental Health Board, Volleyball (club and BHS) and South Hills Burbank Church, my friend circle has grown to include friends of various ages. If speaking to those younger, I would:
Encourage them to get involved in both school activities as well as something in the community.
Try to instill the importance of a handheld planner. Due to my involvement in myriad activities, I often mismanaged my time.
Take advantage of extra help opportunities
JOIN US to celebrate the REMARKABLE, RESILIENT, and REVOLUTIONARY Class of 2021. Donate today to support their legacy for future students.