Conversations with Lauren Covington

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Covington.

Lauren , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I attended a performing arts high school, where I was first introduced to the world of music and the arts. Growing up, I often felt different, but once I was surrounded by other creatives, I realized I was exactly where I belonged. That’s when doors really started to open for me, especially as I began using my voice to influence and uplift others.
During that time, I had the opportunity to sing at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, participate in the Governor’s Honors Program and All-State choruses, star in school musicals, serve as both junior and senior class president, and become the student director of our choir in my senior year.

Leadership. and music always seemed to ground me. As a teacher, I get a lot of questions about my journey, but the one question that always stands out to me is “Why did you decide to become a music teacher, specifically?” I always tell them that music was the one thing that consistently scared me, but it also pushed me to overcome my insecurities and step outside of my comfort zone. There were many times when I felt nervous and even questioned whether I should have accepted certain singing or directing opportunities. But every challenge I faced became something I could grow from, and now I use those experiences to pour back into my students and audiences. I remind them that even in the middle of fear, they’re still capable of making a difference in something bigger than themselves.

My mother passed away suddenly when I was 16, the summer before my senior year; just two weeks before I was supposed to attend the Governor’s Honors Program for vocal music. A few months before she passed, I told her I wanted to become a music teacher and performer. I remember it so clearly: we were in the car, and she said, “As long as what you do makes you feel happy, fulfilled, and helps others, go for it.” That moment stayed with me, and it ultimately solidified my decision to pursue music education. I went on to attend the University of Georgia for my undergraduate and graduate degree. There I served as a student director for one of UGA’s renowned choir, The African American Chorale Ensemble (AACE). At the conclusion of my undergraduate years, I was chosen to sing the Alma Mater at all 3 UGA graduation ceremonies. I sang to a crowd of over 50,000 people each night- one of the biggest audiences I had ever performed for.

Today, I’m a high school teacher and performing artist. I serve as the Director of the Vocal and Fine Arts department at the same high school I graduated from in 2017, which feels incredibly full circle. During my time there, my choir has been recognized as one of the top high school choral programs in Georgia by the Georgia Music Educators Association. Our school also received a Shuler Award for our production of The Wiz!, where I served as Music Director, and I’ve been honored as the 2026–2027 Teacher of the Year.
Alongside teaching, I’ve continued performing. I recently completed the world premiere of Sherri and the Unfairies, written by Elliot Thomson and Peter K. Hirsch and directed by Nikki Toombs, and I’ve had the opportunity to perform in several other productions as well.

Looking back, I can see how every challenge I’ve faced has shaped me. In every way, I believe my journey has been guided by my relationship with God. Each obstacle stretched me, but also strengthened my capacity to lead, to serve, and to show up for others with purpose and compassion.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When I first chose to pursue the arts, I often felt inadequate. I wasn’t always the strongest performer, and I struggled with stage fright and overthinking. I remember often feeling overlooked because I wasn’t as outgoing as some of the other students in the program. After my mom passed, I went through a really difficult season. I felt shy, isolated, and suddenly forced to grow up and manage my emotions and responsibilities all at once. Even though no one around me discouraged me, I felt like I had to mask what I was going through just to keep moving forward. It wasn’t until I began private voice lessons with my college professor, Dr. Gregory Broughton, that something shifted. He encouraged me to stop trying to hold everything together and instead allow myself to be honest in my art; to let the “pieces hit the floor,” and use my voice and singing as a vehicle for healing, growth, and service to others.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a singer, actor, and music educator. I perform locally at various events around Atlanta, serve as a praise and worship leader, and act at different theaters. I am known for my singing. I am classically trained. What sets me apart from most people is that I don’t just perform or teach from a technical place. I create and lead from a place of empathy, honesty, and lived experience. I understand what it feels like to be unsure of your voice, and that allows me to connect with students and audiences in a more real way. I think that’s what makes my work different. It’s not just about performance, it’s about purpose and connection.I’m most proud of my role as a teacher and singer. Every day, I share my own performance experiences with my students; opportunities I’ve had outside of the classroom; to help guide and better them. I use those moments to be transparent about what the journey of a performer really looks like, including the challenges and discouraging moments that even professionals face. My goal is for my students to understand the reality of the field, and to feel encouraged knowing that struggle is a normal part of growth, not a sign that they should stop.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My advice for finding a mentor is to be open and willing to share your goals, while also asking thoughtful questions about your career path. I think it’s especially valuable to seek out someone who is actively living out their purpose. They are not just pursuing their own dreams, but also genuinely invested in helping others succeed.
I’ve been fortunate to have people who spoke life into me, encouraged me, and offered guidance and wisdom along the way. Those experiences have taught me how important it is to discern not just what someone says, but how they show up for you over time.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurencovingtonofficial/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-covington-165340167