Meet Michael, our 12th-grade boarding student at the international school. He loves literature and listening to classical and early music. Aside from pursuing his IB Diploma studies at our school, he is passionate to be a professional classical music singer.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background?
Sure. My name is Michael, I'm a grade 12 boarding student at the International School section of Institut Montana Switzerland, currently pursuing the IB Diploma. I was born in China, and I grew up speaking Chinese and English. I’m also fluent in German and have learned Italian as well.
Q: How did you fall in love with singing?
I've always enjoyed listening to classical and early music since I was a child. My desire to become a singer was sparked by a trip to Vienna in Grade 8 with my previous school. I sang with the Vienna Boys' Choir and also joined another choir, performing in Stephansdom. This experience inspired me to pursue singing as a career. I've attended many concerts and witnessed the joy that music brings to people, and I hope to share that same joy with others through my own music.
Q: What’s your favourite subject at school?
I would say English Literature, even though I don’t always get the best grades. But Mr. Valentino is a very enthusiastic teacher, and I've always enjoyed reading literature.
Q: What’s your plan after graduating from Institut Montana Switzerland?
I will be attending a music conservatory, specifically the Department of Early Music. I hope to become a professional Early Music or Classical music singer in the future.
Q: How does Institut Montana prepare you in preparing the future?
All my teachers and house parents have been supportive of my dream career. Mr. Bissig allows me to use the music room which helps me hone my music skills. The IB curriculum is very beneficial for my life. For example, English Literature helps me understand literature and classical music, while Business Management teaches me how to market or position myself in the music industry.
Q: Tell us 3 things you like about Institut Montana Switzerland?
The overall atmosphere, the teachers, the books about music theory and music history in the library/Mediathek.
Q: Who is your dream person to perform together on stage?
I really do hope to be able to sing with my professor one day on stage. I really enjoyed having lessons with her. She has always been there for me and I really want to sing with her on stage one day.
Curious of Michael's performances? Check out these videos:
“In deine Hände” aus “Actus Tragicus” von J. S. Bach
“Vani sono i lamenti… Svegliatevi nel core” Rez. und Arie des Sestos aus “Giulio Cesare”
“Die Stille” aus “Liederkreis Op. 39” komponiert von Robert Schuman