December 15, 2023
LANCASTER, Texas -- As the inaugural Lancaster ISD holiday piano recital approaches, West Main Elementary and Lancaster Middle School students have been busy preparing for their performances. The recital marks the first time holiday performances from both campuses have been combined into one show that displays the diverse musical talents of the students.
Piano teacher Kevin Hawkins says the students have been working on learning the music and making it come alive and dance off the page.
"Once the students get past the technical feat of learning the notes, they start to make the music their own and get into the groove of playing with feeling," said Hawkins. "The holidays are the perfect time of year for a recital because it's a time of excitement and fun. Those feelings translate to their playing, and in turn, they bring that to their performances."
Hawkins says seeing the pride on the young pianists' faces when they memorize a passage or master a difficult set of notes is indescribable.
"I don't know who's more proud, me or them," laughs Hawkins as he looks fondly at the students during rehearsal.
The students have been practicing their recital pieces for several weeks, honing their skills during class and after-school practices. Each student will perform a classic or traditional holiday song, spreading holiday cheer and joy before the winter break.
While this isn't the first public performance for many students, some understandably still have a case of the jitters. Eighth-grade student Alysandra Hudleton, who will perform "Run Rudolph Run" during the recital, says she's nervous but excited.
"I'm feeling nervous because there will be a lot of people in the audience, but I have been preparing myself for this over the years," said Hudleton. "I play in front of my parents often, so I'm gradually getting used to having eyes on me. I feel more comfortable playing and having fun when the spotlight is on me. My piece is more technical, so I look forward to performing."
Arnez Carter, a Lancaster Middle School seventh-grader performing "O Come, All Ye Faithful," says he's a little apprehensive about his first performance but feels the piano is his safe space.
"When I'm sitting at the piano and playing, I can relax and let go of my thoughts," reflected Carter. "I'm still learning to read music and finger placement, but playing focuses my mind, and I can tune things out. It's calming."
Fourth-grade student Dillon Propes is playing "O, Christmas Tree" during the recital and says he's feeling confident ahead of the big night.
"I've been working hard to learn my music for the recital," said Propes. "Even before I sit down to practice, I tell myself, 'You can do this," and I start to play. I trust myself to play well and can't wait to perform for my family."
Karly Garza, a fifth-grader playing "Sing We Now of Christmas," says having a teacher like Mr. Hawkins makes all the difference.
"He's a great teacher," said Garza. "He's very calm and patient when he teaches. He takes the time to work with us individually, making me feel more confident about my playing."
The piano recital allows the students to showcase their musical abilities and develop important life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and confidence. The students have learned to set goals, practice regularly, and overcome challenges.
Hawkins says the audience can expect a fantastic performance from the students.
"I'm proud of my students," said Hawkins. "They've worked hard and dedicated themselves to learning their music. The recital will be a great opportunity for them to perform in front of a live audience and showcase their skills. I have no doubt that they will do an excellent job."
The Lancaster ISD holiday piano recital will take place on Tuesday, December 19, at 6:30 p.m. in the Lancaster Middle School auditorium. Families and community members are invited to attend a reception at 6 p.m. to support the students ahead of the show.
