The oldest school in town keeps up to date with outstanding youth talent in recent performances.
The fall semester has been filled with wonderful performances by four orchestras. From their early beginnings with the ice cream social to their upcoming winter concert, the Westerner Orchestra never fails to show up and show out at every single concert.
Our historic auditorium has been the haven for young artists for decades. Mr Alejos Anaya, the director of the orchestra program since 2008, has also called it his home away from home.
“I couldn’t think of a better place to live.” he said in response to why he picked LHS to teach at. “I was a Lubbock High graduate myself and then I taught in Austin for 5 years then I rushed immediately to Lubbock the moment the job opened up.”
Upcoming in the world of orchestra is their winter concert. A great finale prior to their competition and before the winter break.
“We have 4 orchestras and each will play 2 selections we’ve worked on for about a month” Anaya said, “The winter concert is my favorite just because it’s one of our most straightforward concerts.”
A member of the program since 2008, Mr Anaya has influenced and taught hundred of students who have nothing but kindness to say about him and his instruction.
“I feel that it’s a great opportunity to be in the orchestra program.” Freshman David Dass said, “Compared to middle school it’s a lot more… sophisticated and laid back when you actually do the work. It’s all dependent on you”
“I love it… I really do.” Sophomore Zach Lopez said, “Mr Anaya as a teacher is awesome. If I ever need help with anything he’s there and he takes good care of his students. It feels a lot like a privilege to be in here and less like being in a class. He’s very adamant about getting your stuff turned in and it translates into my other classes.”
While Mr Anaya is modest in saying “I don’t have that much influence” however, many students I’m sure would agree (including graduates and current seniors) that Mr Anaya has shared something valuable with them. Regardless if it made them like music or not, they most definitely learned something about themselves and life that they will take with them into the real world. The concert will take place next Tuesday, December 17th, 2024 in the historic LHS auditorium. It is sure to be an exciting evening.