Ameet Kanon
Whether she is belting the powerful lyrics of “Back to Black” by Amy Winehouse or giving the classic song “Hello” by Lionel Richie her own stylistic twist, junior Ameet Kanon is known throughout the community for her soulful vocals.
Kanon discovered her passion for singing at the age of 7 years old after performing in musical theater shows. After many years of commitment and experience, she continues to excel and is empowered by constant practice and support from her family and friends.
“Knowing that my family and friends are always in the crowd cheering me on in every performance makes me so happy,” said Kanon. “Family means everything to me, and the fact that they have always been so supportive is what keeps me motivated.”
Entering CHS this year, Kanon has already become a member of the all female acapella group Bare Rhythm and joined the choir class Harmony. She also performs often with the Jazz A Band and recently traveled with them to the Reno Jazz Festival where she earned an Outstanding Musicianship Award. Since joining these hardworking groups, she has improved her singing improv skills, rhythms and performance abilities. Her time in the CHS music program has taught her so much about herself musically and the general field of music as well.
“I just came to CHS this past year and have felt so welcomed by all of the students and teachers who are part of music program,” said Kanon. “My singing has improved so much this year from all of the experiences that the program has given me, and I cannot wait to continue.”
Kanon aspires to make a career out of singing and cannot picture herself doing anything else. As soon as she steps on stage to perform she immediately feels at ease. Her humble attitude has strengthened her ability to perform, sing and succeed. Kanon loves feeding off the excitement of her audience as she astounds them with her every note.
Lewis’ lyrical adventure had rather humble beginnings as she showcased her blossoming talent during at-home concerts for her family and friends. Upon entering high school, Lewis pushed herself to step out of her comfort zone and joined professional singing outlets at CHS such as Vivace and Bare Rhythm. Although she values her vocal success at school, Lewis cherishes her musical roots at home.
“Everyone in my family does something artistic, and my [older] sister, an aspiring singer/songwriter, is my main inspiration to keep singing,” said Lewis. “I also jam with my siblings a lot, which is a fun bonding experience and a chance to improve my singing as well.”
Constantly surrounded by an abundance of talent both at school and at home, Lewis is motivated to improve her vocal skills. She currently specializes in pop and choral styles of singing but is determined to strengthen her abilities through increased classical vocal training.
“When I sing, I feel many different emotions depending on the music, but mostly I feel free,” said Lewis. “There’s really nothing like it, and it never fails to take me to my happy place.”
Though Lewis takes her craft very seriously, she perseveres through the hard work solely for her undying love of music.
– Cydney Hayes/Opinion Editor
Asher Gevisser
Freshman Asher Gevisser finds himself standing in front of a large audience, getting lost in the lyrics of a Broadway song. With his strong vocals and bold confidence, Gevisser feels at home on stage.
“One cannot truly sing a song unless he or she can feel the lyrics,” said Gevisser. “I love singing and being able to connect to a song on an emotional level.”
Music, acting and playing the piano have always been a major part of Gevisser’s childhood. Since performing in his third grade play, Character Matters, Gevisser has taken his performing abilities to the next level. Whether he is performing solo at school concerts or being a part of a high school production such as West Side Story, theater is Gevisser’s top priority. In an effort to refine his talents, Gevissor consistently attends Frenchwood, a performing arts summer camp in New York. During his first time attending Frenchwood, he landed the role of Willard in Footloose the Musical, where he learned what performing in New York was all about. In New York, Gevissor was fell more in love with acting and singing when he took a field trip with his camp to New York City in order to see the talent and potential that Broadway offered. This ideal atmosphere for aspiring actors and artists has given Gevissor the necessary skills for success.
“Being in these plays has been an amazing experience and has laid the foundation of my potential career in theater,” said Gevissor. “I cannot express in words the emotions and adrenaline rush I feel every time I take my first step on stage.”
Gevissor plans to continue working on his theater aspirations and will put forth all effort needed to reach his musical dreams.