✨Student Spotlight✨
Our latest Student Spotlight is Brendan Loy, and he is one impressive young man! He is involved in so many things that we aren’t sure he even sleeps! This year, Brendan is the Field Commander of "The Pride of Ohio County." This is a coveted position that most band students would love have, and many tryout for it. He has also been the saxophone section leader and band activity director. Not to mention that he is a member of the Concert Band, Jazz Band, and theater programs.
Being Filed Commander suits him well. Band director, Jason Birch, describes him well when saying, “Brendan is known for his cooperation and respect, embodies qualities of understanding, consideration, friendliness, fairness, and professionalism. His adeptness in handling playing situations and student interactions reflects a profound understanding of his personal and musical growth. Brendan has fostered strong connections with students, staff, and parents, showcasing excellent collaboration.”
While at Park, Brendan has won several awards. These awards include Region I Honor band three years running, WVU Honor Band, WLU Honor Band, Music in the Parks Outstanding Jazz Soloist, North Central West Virginia High School Honor Band, Music in the Parks 1st Place Concert Band Award and 1st Place Jazz Band Award, Superior Ratings at Region I Solo & Ensemble Competition and the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award along with countless others. The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award may be the most prestigious. The award which is sometimes referred to as the King Bee Award is given to the top jazz student that display outstanding musical achievement and an incredible dedication to the program.
Mr. Birch also shared, “I've had the honor of knowing and teaching Mr. Loy since his Steenrod Elementary days. At WPHS, I've seen Brendan diligently enhance not only his musical skills but also elevate those of his peers in the Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Theater programs.”
Brendan is not just a talented musician. He is an outstanding scholar. Loy takes both Honors and AP classes along with his music classes. He is ranked in the top nine percent of his class with a grade point average above a 4.5. Loy plans to attend West Virginia University and major Biology with the goal of becoming a pediatrician. He also plans to continue his love of music by participating in WVU’s jazz program.
Jason Birch sums it up perfectly in stating, “I can speak for myself and all the students in the music department that we he will be missed after graduation. I am excited to see where life takes him after graduation...I know he will do amazing things!”
The sky is truly the limit for this talented, committed and hardworking young man.
WPHS Band