Our people: Portales music teacher Eunice Schumpert wanted to be an opera singer as a child

Eunice Schumpert of Portales doesn’t remember a time in her life when she wasn’t singing and playing the piano. She is on the cusp of her 90th birthday and continues to be active as a piano and voice teacher. Schumpert began teaching as early as her senior year of high school. She began her own studio in 1945.

“I want to teach my students to love the divine art of music. I want them to strive for perfection and expression in interpretation,” she said.

During World War II, she directed an all girls choir and has been playing the organ at her church for more than 30 years.

In her spare time, Schumpert sings in choirs and reads music history and novels.

In celebration of Schumpert’s 90th, Chapter BE-PEO Sisterhood is hosting a special event that is open to the community. The event will be held 2-4 p.m. Aug. 7 at the Portales Woman’s Club. RSVP to Sheryl Borden at 219-1893 or [email protected].