An expert in choral music, Serena Ray Pearce can trace her love for the field back to her father, a church singer. The director of her father’s choir recognized Ms. Pearce’s talent when she was very young, and she worked hard to foster that and improve. She joined a middle school group composed of excellent singers and musicians, who helped her develop a deeper understanding for the pieces she performed. After this, she transferred to a high school known for their choral music program. Ms. Pearce went on to earn a Bachelor of Music from the University of North Carolina in 1973 and a Master of Music from Meredith College in 1987. She also became a licensed music teacher for students in grades K-12 in the state of North Carolina.
Backed by stellar training, Ms. Pearce set out to make her mark on music and the performing arts. She became both the chorus and drama director of Zebulon GT Magnet Middle School and the drama and handbell director of the adult and junior choir at the Bethany Baptist Church in 1973. Although she retired from the former in 2006, she remains with the latter to this day. In recognition of her efforts, she was honored as the Teacher of the Year by Zebulon GT Magnet Middle School in 2000 and by Zebulon High School in 1987.
When Ms. Pearce has free time, she enjoys pursuing hobbies like interior design and reading. She even designed the house she currently lives in. Additionally, she still frequently sings for various events, and she is the vice president of membership and an officer of the Gamma Eta chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma in North Carolina since 2018.
