By Mackie Grady Posted April 26, 2019
Stacey Horton was chosen as the Performer of the Issue by band and choir director Mr. Sean Whelan.
Horton was one of two students in the school who auditioned for and made the North East Nevada Zone Honor Band, Honor Choir and the All-State Choir.
“Stacey is a great musician and leader in both the band and the choir where she leads by example and helps others when she sees them struggling,” said Whelan.
Horton loved the idea of music and wanted to share her interests with others.
“I got into singing and playing the alto saxophone because I have always had a love for music, and I wanted to learn how to make music among a group of people with similar interests,” said Horton. “That way I could play more powerful music pieces that would sound empty if I just performed them on my own.”
Former band director Mr. Paul Criddle helped Stacey with deciding to get into choir.
“No one specifically inspired me to join band, but I always thought the saxophone was a cool instrument that I wanted to learn how to play,” said Horton. “However, I would say that Mr. Criddle heavily influenced me to push my limits in band, and the incredible energy he put into Swing Choir convinced me to join choir.”
Horton has been involved in band for six years and hopefully in college as well.
“I have been involved with band since the 6th grade, and choir since my junior year of high school. I also plan to continue band in college if at all possible,” said Horton.
After graduation, Horton hopes to pursue band at Portland State University.
“As for what I plan on doing after high school, I’m going to Portland State University to study Graphic Design and minor in Music, hopefully being able to continue playing my saxophone if everything goes well,” said Horton.
Everyone has their strategies for upcoming events and Horton only practices when needed.
“At home, I’m going to be honest, I don’t practice a whole lot on my choir and band stuff unless there is a big audition or performance coming up that I need to be on my A game for,” said Horton.
Although Stacey thoroughly enjoys music, she also is interested in photography.
“Aside from music, I like photography and art even though I’m not in any specific class for it. I just have an interest in anything remotely artistic,” said Horton.
Band and choir is not only a class, but it allows you to express yourself through various ways of music.
“Overall, I would just like to say that I encourage everyone to be involved with some sort of performing arts class. These classes allow you to express yourself and meet a lot of interesting people that you wouldn’t have met otherwise,” said Horton. “Additionally, it allows you to develop your skills by opening you up to other opportunities outside of the traditional school setting.”
Stacey will be performing in the All-State Choir in Las Vegas in the first week of April.
“I have participated in Honor Band, Honor Choir, Small State Band, and actually next week I will be participating in All-State Choir in Las Vegas,” said Horton.
