Meredith Clayton has been the Choral Director at Garner Magnet High School since 2005. The choral department at Garner High consists of the Beginning Mixed Ensemble, the Intermediate Chorale, and Die Meistersingers, the advanced choral ensemble. Each of these choirs consistently receives superior ratings from adjudicators at both state and national festivals. Currently, there are 147 students enrolled in the Choral Program.
Mrs. Clayton graduated Cum Laude from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2004, with a Bachelor of Music in Choral Education (K-12), and a concentration in Vocal Performance. While attending UNC-Greensboro, Mrs. Clayton studied Vocal Performance with Deborah Thacker, and Dr. Charles Lynam. Mrs. Clayton performed with the University Chorale, under the direction of Dr. William Carroll, and served as Student Conductor for the Women’s Glee Club, under the direction of Dr. Kenney Potter. Mrs. Clayton studied performance, music education and conducting, while also performing in operas, musicals and various other ensembles.
Originally, from Raleigh, North Carolina, Mrs. Clayton graduated from Leesville Road High School, where her mother, Diane Covington, has served as Choral Director since 1993. Mrs. Clayton has been an active member of the Chancel Choir at First Presbyterian Church in Raleigh where her father, Dr. David L. Covington, is the Director of Music. She has sung professionally with the North Carolina Master Chorale, under the direction of Dr. Al Sturgis, performing regularly with the North Carolina Symphony. She is an active member of the American Choral Director’s Association (ACDA), and the National Association for Music Education (MENC). Mrs. Clayton also teaches private piano from home.
