Local students earn performing arts scholarships

“Dream big” was the message delivered to a group of high-school musicians who demonstrated their talents Sunday in pursuit of financial awards.

The student finalists performed on stage before an audience and judges at the Thomasville Performing Arts Concert (TPAC) held March 3 at the Thomasville Center for the Arts. Thomas University music professor Dr. Karl Barton organized and hosted the event.

“Youth is the time of life to dream big dreams and pursue lofty goals,” Barton said. “We are proud of all the finalists, who performed very well and represented their teachers and schools with high standards. These awards will allow the finalists to pursue additional music training.”

Now in its eighth year, the TPAC scholarship opportunity is sponsored jointly by Thomas University, Thomasville Center for the Arts and Thomasville Entertainment Foundation. TPAC is open to Thomas and Grady County high-school students in three categories: vocal, piano and instrumental.

A full scholarship was awarded to Tyler Laidman, a Thomas County Central High School senior. Laidman played Alexander Lebedv’s “Concerto in One Movement” on trombone.

A three-quarter scholarship was awarded to Hogan Watson, a Thomasville High School senior and baritone vocalist who sang Carissimi’s “Vittorio mio caro” and Revaux’s “My Way.”

Partial scholarships were awarded to these finalists: Lydia Glass (piano, TCCHS, 11th grade); Kingston Chen (piano, Brookwood School, 9th grade); and Jaclyn Maxwell (soprano, TCCHS, 10th grade). An honorable mention was given to trumpeter Teddy Cone, a TCCHS senior.

Judging the performances were concert pianist / instructor Dr. Kyungju Park Lee; bass-baritone soloist / conductor Marques Jerrell Ruff, and trumpeter / composer Derrick L. Montgomery. Dr. Jim Amend accompanied the performers on piano.

TPAC award recipients have 12 months to apply their scholarships to intensives, lessons or tuition in their designated field.