by Shelley Bennett
It’s no secret that Lassen High School is filled with talented people and last week students and staff were treated to performances by some of the finest.
Music instructor Ben Wade is the man behind “Lassen’s Got Talent”, an annual event showcasing students.
Wade’s enthusiasm for performing arts is evident from his first remarks as the audience filed into the student center.
There were seven performances this year, each different and unique than the next. Isaac Nikkel and Oakley Cruce started with a vocal performance of “Tom Fera”. Their voices complemented each other nicely and the emotion was evident for those attending.
Manny LaPorte showcased his vocals and saxophone playing skills with an original composition. Manny is always a crowd favorite as he has great showmanship and plays with joy.
Nicholas Watson was up next with his rendition of “Over the Rainbow.” As a fan of the Wizard of Oz, I had high expectations and was not disappointed. Nicholas’ voice had a sweet, yet solemn tone as he worked through the meaningful lyrics. It was just beautiful. If there was a teacher’s favorite award, mine would go to Nick.
Then Jacob Mack played his original composition “Purple Ocean” on the piano. Jacob is also a master on the drumline, so it was no surprise as his complex notes filled the rooms. It was one of those songs that you can feel in your gut; building and ebbing, building and ebbing.
Annie Cruz sang an original composition called “Love Lies”. She also composed her accompanying music. As Annie’s lyrics filled the room, a haunting story of friendship and betrayal unfolded.
The duo of Ethan Shaw and Olivia Carlson performed “Something in the Orange” with Shaw’s guitar providing rhythm for their vocals. Ethan said they picked this popular song because it “was something the crowd would know” and it was evident as other students swayed and sung along.
Guitarist Erik Nez closed the show with Metallica’s “Fade to Black.” Nez was born in the wrong generation; he should have been shredding in an 80’s Heavy Metal band. He would fit right in! The crowd rocked along with him.
After the judges (Wade, Kayla Millar, and Rachel Stewart) marked their final scores, Mr. Wade announced the winners to much applause and cheering.
Winning first place was Ethan Shaw and Olivia Carlson, second place was taken by Erik Nez, and third place was awarded to Annie Cruz. Perhaps no one was as surprised as Ethan Shaw when it was revealed that he and his partner won. “I was shocked,” he said. “I was not expecting it all.” In fact, he said that Erik’s piece was his favorite.
Thank you to our talented students, including Jeremy Nielsen with the sound, and Ben Wade for putting the show together. It has become a highly anticipated Lassen High tradition.
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