Young Musicians Making Their Mark and Gaining Recognition Along the Way
Written by Post Public Information Representative, Feb 26, 2018, Comments Off
Courtesy Rocio Moore,
A pair of middle school students from Clark Middle School are making their mark and gaining recognition along the way. Luis Velasco and Mariely Guadiana are the latest students to accomplish feats only kids their age can dream about.
Velasco, who plays the clarinet for the mighty Husky Band, was among the many students competing at the UIL Competition held earlier this month. There was one noticeable difference between Velasco and his competitors; Velasco isn’t in high school, he’s in Eighth Grade. Velasco’s eloquent and pitched perfect sound wowed judges in the solo portion of the competition. Not only did Velasco play perfectly, but he played a composition typically reserved for students studying music in college earning him 3rd Chair among the top musicians across the state.
Over the years, Velasco has gained recognition for being a quality player who continues to challenge himself to be a better musician. “Luis has yet to peak at showing just how well of a musician he is,” stated Gilbert Cuellar, Band Director of Clark Middle School. “He’s accomplished so much in middle school, that I can not wait to see what the future holds for him,” he added.
Velasco is looking forward to joining some of his competitors next year when he begins his freshman year at John B. Alexander High School. He’s most excited about playing music in for different purposes. Only time will tell the great music this young musician will unleash. Until then, we’ll have to watch and wait to see what great things will come.
If you’ve ever been to an event at Clark Middle School you’ve more than likely met or listened to the phenomenally talented Mariely Guadiana. Mariely is the lead vocalist of United ISD’s only Mariachi Middle School Band; Mariachi Del Norte. The band is under the direction of retired band director, Carlos Gil, who works alongside campus music staff to sustain the program at the campus.
Mariely recently attended the UIL Region Competition where she won First Chair in the Female Vocalist Category and was recently featured in a concert showcasing the best of the best talented musicians in the state. Mariely is no stranger to competition. Over the years, she’s traveled to compete in competitions like, La Voz and Mariachi Vargas making her name known along the way singing music that evoke passion and tell a story. “I put myself in every song I sing, even when I haven’t experienced what I’m singing about,” she stated. “I imagine what it would feel like and show that emotion in my song,” added Mariely. And that she does! Mariachi Del Norte is one of the most sought out for mariachi groups district wide.
Mariely is not only a talented musician , but she’s also a dedicated student. When she isn’t practicing for the next school performance, she’s studying. She’s a member of the Clark Middle School National Honor Society, Student Council, and also plays in the school band.
Mariely is looking forward to the next chapter in her life. She’s excited about concert season and can’t wait to start high school.
