Anyone can look at a role model like Taylor Swift and admire them, or even aspire to be like her. But sophomore Katie Koenigsknecht is going above and beyond this concept of admiration and following in the footsteps of such hit-producing singing stars.

Koenigsknecht is more than your “average” high school song writer. Not only does she write songs, add music to complement the lyrics, and sing them but she has also recorded some of her original works.

“It was a dream come true,” said Koenigsknecht of her experience in the studio.  “It was an amazing experience for me and so much fun. I can’t wait to go back and record more songs.”

Obviously she plans on exercising her talents and continuing to practice her musical talents. Koenigsknecht takes her music very seriously, and even plans on pursuing it as a potential career. With the experience she already has, Koenigsknecht is already well on the way to making her dreams a reality.

“I think it’s pretty awesome,” said Kathryn Dunleavy, a fellow sophomore and friend of Koenigsknecht’s. “She is following her dreams and doing what she loves.”

However, songs do not write themselves, and the work does not happen overnight. There is a whole process that goes into Koenigsknecht’s songwriting. Not only does she write the lyrics, but takes the time to write music for them also.

“My favorite part about the process is adding guitar or piano chords to my lyrics,” said Koenigsknecht.

Music is only one piece of what makes up a complete song though. While the instramentals may seem like the difficult part of the whole songwriting process, lyrics must also be written. Finding inspirations alone takes a measure of effort.

“I usually sit down and think of a situation and turn the situation into a song,” said Koenigsknecht of her process. “Most of the time I will be in the middle of doing something and I will just think of a song, so I write it down if I can or keep repeating lyrics in my head.”

This leads to songs being written, and in some cases even recorded. Koenigsknecht had the opportunity to visit a recording studio in September and record some of her original music. This can only be leading her closer to her dream come true: a singing career.

“I think she’s really talented,” said junior Madeline Flynn. “It’s amazing that she has that opportunity to be able to record her music because I know she has a really good voice.”

Koenigsknecht has no lack of people who believe in and support her talent. One thing is for sure, Koenigsknecht has what it takes to take her talent out into the world and succeed.  Keep an eye on the music charts in the future, odds are you’ll see her name there next.