Senior Calvin Beck is one of the many talented musicians on campus. At KO, he plays bass in the jazz band, and outside of school he plays in the jazz combo at the Hartt School of Music and in a guitar ensemble at Central Connecticut State University. His love for music started at a young age and has grown each day since. “I started playing guitar when I was five and loved it so I started taking lessons,” he said.
One of the things that makes the jazz band so enjoyable for Calvin is playing with other talented artists. “My favorite part of playing music at KO is getting to perform with the other band members,” he said. Fellow band member senior Adam Sonntag said he feels the same about Calvin. “Calvin Beck is a very passionate and talented musician,” he said. “He is one of the few people I know who wants to pursue music further in his life.”
Calvin’s teachers and friends are always impressed when they have the chance to hear him perform. “His music is inspiring and majestic. When he plays, the world listens,” senior Michael Autorino said. Creative arts Department Chair Todd Millen said Calvin’s music speaks louder than words. “He’s a quiet guy, but his playing does a lot of talking. His playing shows me someone who’s really dedicated to his art,” he said.
This past summer, Calvin was accepted into many music festivals to further showcase his talent. “I was accepted into the Boston GuitarFest, Cleveland International Guitar Festival, and the Summer Solstice Guitar Festival. I am very happy,” he said. His friends said they are all excited for him. “When I found out about all the festivals Calvin was accepted into, I was super proud. I know he’s going to do big things,” senior Andrew Holland said.
Aside from all the festivals, Calvin has other things planned for himself. “I plan on doing an hour long recital in May,” he said. Calvin intends on continuing his music. “I am planning on applying to music conservatories for guitar performance to improve as a guitarist,” he said. His teachers see him thriving as a musician in the future. “He’s talented and driven enough that if he wants to go that route, he will be successful. [He’s] someone who’s really dedicated to his art,” Mr. Millen said. Calvin said he is looking forward to the next step in his musical career. “I am excited for what the future holds,” Calvin said.
