Choir Baton Episode 9: The Journey to International Teaching with Matt Bishop

This week’s episode is an interview with Matt Bishop, music teacher at the Dunecrest American School in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. A year ago Matt was an early twenties suburban middle school choir teacher, having only ever lived in North Carolina and did not even own a passport. What led him to pursue such a drastic change and why? What hurdles did he jump personally and professionally to learn, apply, and accept this position? What is teaching at an international school like, especially a school in the Middle East? How has he grown as a person and musician in the past year?
If you’ve ever wanted to know what the process for international teaching is, Matt walks us through his experience. Or, if you’ve ever felt trapped and unhappy in your current situation, Matt humbly shares his own struggles and how he took control of his life. You will be inspired by Matt’s story and come away with yet another example of how choir can change your life.
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Matthew Bishop is a lyric tenor, conductor, and teacher.  A native of North Carolina, he holds a Bachelor’s of Music in Music Education from University of North Carolina School at Greensboro.  While at UNCG, he performed as a soloist and chorister with the Schola Cantorum, University Chorale, and Chamber Singers.  He was also the first undergraduate student at UNCG to assemble a choir and program for an undergraduate conducting recital, An Evening of Choral Classics.


Upon graduation, Mr. Bishop became the Choral Director at Holly Grove Middle School in Holly Springs, North Carolina.  His students received honors such as selection for North Carolina Middle School Honors Chorus, All State and All County choirs.  Bishop was also an active member of his Professional Learning Team and served as the All County Chorus Festival Coordinator. He also served as musical director for productions such as How the Grinch Stole Christmas  and Annie Jr.  Mr. Bishop’s professional memberships include National Association of Music Education, and American Choral Director’s Association.


In August 2018, Mr. Bishop relocated to Dubai, United Arab Emirates to build the Performing Arts programs at Dunecrest American School.  He currently directs Grades 5-10 Choir and Theatre ensembles, as well as an after school Piano Lab. Mr. Bishop is excited to join The Voice Studio at American School of Dubai.
Music: Scott Holmes
Host: Beth Philemon @baphilemon www.bethphilemon.com