This month, we’re excited to feature piano student Jacob Wilkinson!
Jacob, a junior at Platteville Baptist Academy, is one of our most advanced piano students! He’s performed at many Flourish recitals and events.
Jacob was nominated for Student Spotlight by his teacher, Ms. Joy. Here’s what she had to say about Jacob:
“Jacob is a level 7 piano student who demonstrates an incredible love for the instrument. He comes to his lesson each week eager to explore the intricacies of his playing technique, and creates performances that seem effortless.
Jacob excels at sight reading and loves to explore new music. He asks probing questions that reflect his knowledge of the mechanics of playing, and incorporates the answers into practical performance solutions. Most importantly, Jacob communicates his music in a way that connects emotionally with his audience.
Jacob and I share a love for church music and hymn arrangements, so I am thrilled that he plays at his church every week. He is always appreciative and respectful, and I, in turn, have an enormous respect for him.”
Read our interview with Jacob below!
How long have you taken piano lessons?
I have been taking piano lessons for 8+ years, but I have been with Flourish for almost four years.
What do you love about playing piano?
I love everything about playing the piano and listening to other people play. I specifically like playing the piano because it brings a calming presence into my life; especially these last two years with COVID, which have been stressful for everyone. My dad was the one who first introduced me to the piano, and for that I am infinitely grateful.
You are in Level 7 of the Achievement Program, which means you’ve worked on a LOT of repertoire. What have been some of your favorite pieces to work on?
My favorite pieces to work on were Jingle Bells: Sad Christmas (arr. Toms Mucenieks), Nandemonaiya (comp. Noda Yojiro; arr. Pianicast), and How to Train Your Dragon Main Theme (comp. John Powell; arr. Patrik Pietschmann), just to name a few.
What do you like about Flourish?
I like Flourish Music Academy because the teachers are amazing! I’ve had many teachers before I came to Flourish, but none of them were ever the right fit for me.
When I first came to Flourish, I was very shy and scared to play in front of people. Ms. Joy was very patient with me and helped me grow in my confidence and musical talent. I wouldn’t be where I am today, as a student of music or a person, without her. Ms. Joy showed me that playing the piano is more than just hitting the right keys at the right time, with the right amount of force; she showed me that music is a part of you and who you are as a person. She showed me that music helps us see us as who we are.
What else do you like to do?
In my free time, when I’m not in school or practicing, I casually like to play video games as every stereotypical teenage guy likes to do. I also play the piano full-time for my church.