BELLAIRE • MEMORIAL • RIVER OAKS • TANGLEWOOD • WEST UNIVERSITY

From school choir to sold-out stadiums

By Jordan Maat, age 16 | July 1, 2018

Click the Buzz Me button to receive email notifications when this writer publishes a new article or a new article in this column is published.

MUSICAL DREAMS Jordan Maat, an incoming junior at The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, has sung the national anthem at many sports events, including the Houston Astros and NCAA March Madness. (Photo: Jordan Fischels)

My life is centered around one thing – music. From a young age, music has been my constant companion, whether it’s humming to a familiar tune on the radio, composing my own songs or performing for audiences. I knew from the age of 8 that I wanted to be a musical performer. Being in front of an audience provides an opportunity to confront fear and share a sacred part of my soul.

I joined the choir at Pin Oak Middle school and was involved in the Advanced Girls' choir, directed by Ms. Peggy Moritz. The choir sparked my interest and was essential in encouraging my pursuit. When it came time to choose a high school, I worked with voice coach Abby Seible and honed my skills for the audition process. I am now entering my junior year at The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, where I am a voice student.

My time at HSPVA has been amazing. My voice has improved and my musical skills widened. I learned to play the piano and had my first public recital. Outside of singing solo and groups at HSPVA, I'm occupied with other singing endeavors. I am in an alternative pop group called Under the Lights with my friends Mary Shannon McConaty (vocalist, guitarist) and John Meinert (piano, digital). We have auditioned for America's Got Talent, performed multiple gigs, and have had two concerts at Warehouse Live.

Our first song is titled "I Found You" and is available on iTunes, Spotify and YouTube Music. I also do solo singing work performing the national anthem at sport events. I have performed for the Houston Astros, NCAA March Madness, Baylor University basketball, Texas A&M baseball, the Red River Rugby Conference, the Houston Sabercats and a sold-out U.S. vs. Scotland rugby match. While having an independent career is amazing and beneficial, sometimes, you need help balancing life, school and passions. My manager – I mean, my dad, Owen Maat – has helped me grow and stay grounded. He's so supportive and always encourages me to do my best. Singing is and always will be my passion.

Want to be a Buzz Kid? Email approximately 350 words, a high-resolution photo and caption to [email protected]. Or mail it to The Buzz Magazines, 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, Texas 77401.