By Peter E. Leggett, Walker West Music Academy

Walker West Music Academy held its 2^nd Annual Reverend Carl Walker and Grant West Honors Recital on Sunday, June 22. The event was held at Walker West’s new performance hall at 760 Selby Avenue.

The Honors Recital is a celebration of Walker West’s graduating high school seniors and features performances from talented youth musicians, as well as some of the Academy’s rising stars. At this year’s event, more than 70 audience members were in attendance to listen to wonderful performances from 11 young musicians.

Starting off the evening were pianists Margaret Morrison and Oyeme Thomas performing jazz pieces complete with improvising skills well beyond their years. Next up was violinist Saliem Hashel who impressed with a violin concerto by Haydn.

Jordan Anderson followed with a rendition of Blue Rondo by Dave Brubeck. Jordan is one of the Academy’s rising young jazz musicians, and his talent was on full display during his solo. Rounding out the solo performances were vocalist Evelyna Rosario and Berklee College of Music bound John Blanda.

After a short intermission, pianist John Blanda who had just wowed the audience with a dense piano improvisation was awarded the Rev. Carl Walker and Grant West Honors award. The award is given to one student annually in honor of their excellence in musical performance and achievement. As a long time Walker West student, and incredibly active performer, John’s award was a fitting send off as he ventures into the next phase of his musical journey.

Finishing out the evening was a performance from Walker West youth jazz students who showcased their high level of improvising skills through three extended tunes.

Check out the full photo set on the Academy’s Facebook page here