Artist of the Month: Abigail Grenawalt

By Devin Schooff

Staff Reporter

October 2021

What forms of art do you do?

I play the trumpet, sing, and act in theatre.

What got you into music?

I have always had a passion for it. When I was younger I would sing all of the time, and I just always thought the trumpet was cool.

What is your favorite thing about performing?

I love the rush it gives me. It’s such a unique feeling when everyone comes to celebrate or watch you. I love performing through jazz because everyone is so supportive when they hear something good.

What is your favorite style of music?

I love playing jazz. It’s so unique and fun. The ideas and freedom make room for so much personality. It’s like an extension of your thoughts and words in a way. I love the expression jazz has within it. The back story is so impactful too.

How has the band program impacted you?

The band program has impacted me in many ways. I played in the band at Cunningham, Aldrich, and Clinton. It’s very clear that the program on the Aldrich-Fruzen side of school is much better. I think the opportunities are better for the kids, especially compared to Clinton. The band program is amazing here.

How has the theater program impacted you?

The theatre program has impacted me in many ways. I was also in theatre in Clinton, Aldrich, and Cunningham, however, those were all middle schools. The passion is so much greater from the performing arts teachers at the high school than the other schools I’ve been to. Even on their off days everyone is still involved and truly enjoys what they do. The passion and drive has really impacted me as a performer.

How did you get into singing?

I don’t think there was even an exact moment of time that I started singing. I think it just kind of happened. I was sung to a lot when I was younger and I’m sure that carried over into my love for singing.

What advice would you give to starting musicians?

I think my advice would just be to not give up. It gets difficult and it stays difficult. There is stuff that’s crazy easy for me and stuff that I still don’t really understand. I would just say stick with it. It’s hard. The amount of time and effort that your voice or instrument takes is crazy, but if you really want to be good you just have to stay with it and put in time.

What is a play you would love to be a part of?

I would love to do Heathers or Mean Girls. They are both great musicals that I would love to be a part of! (Please put this in so I can make Wallendal do them.)

What song has been your favorite to play?

I love Watermelon Man. It’s a jazz song by Herbie Hancock. I think about that song way too much!