Los Alamitos High School continued to impress with arts programs as 13 Griffins were nominated for the Orange County Register Artist of the Year in five separate categories.
Below are the Griffin nominees with some comments by their instructors. :
DANCE
Kendal Alicia Villa
“Kendal’s heart makes her truly stand out. She has a beyond teachable gift of interpretation and expression that draws the audience in and makes them feel as deeply and emotionally as she does.”
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
Max Nguyen (percussion)
“What truly makes Max shine is his awareness of others and understanding of the big picture.”
VOCAL MUSIC
It should be no surprise that the powerhouse and award-winning Los Alamitos Show Choir and Vocal Music program produced seven nominees in the Vocal Music category
Alexander Cannizzaro
“Not only does he have a strong baritone voice but he has the special ability to bring every performance to life with his innate sense of timing and dynamic personality.”
Adam Jorge
“Adam is truly a passionate, gifted Artist. He has an innate ability to be able to charm an audience with just the smallest gesture.”
Jamie Nguyen
“Jamie is one of the most gifted students I have had the honor to teach throughout my 30 year career as a choral director.
Danielle Barron
“During the past 4 years, I have seen Danielle transform into a confident dynamic performer. Her vocal technique is impeccable and her musicianship skills are second to none.”
Andrew Kang
“As a vocal artist, his unique approach to every performance is inspiring. His soulful tone quality, dynamic musicianship and impeccable sense of timing and pitch help to create a unique and special experience for everyone who hears his voice.”
Bita Luna Norbakhsh
“Bita Norbakhsh is a star. She possesses a magical quality that is truly inspirational.”
Callie Schmidt
“Callie Schmidt is a vocal powerhouse. Not only is she a talented singer but she is also truly respected by every member of the choir.”
Lily Gomoljak
“Lily has been an actor for our program since the minute she got to high school. Then, during COVID, she took the opportunity to student direct a show that we live-streamed.”
Jack Christopher Hardwick
“Don’t let the fact that Jack is a rock star volleyball player fool you. He is completely electric on stage.”
Nikki Ocampo
“Nikki takes risks. She rehearses the way she plans to perform and is always looking for ways to make her performance better.”
HANDCRAFTED VISUAL ARTS
Kyer Fox
“Nominating Kyer Fox came out of left field. Kyer plays lead tenor in the top jazz band and contributes wonderfully but her next level, awe-inspiring talent lives in her visual art.” Justin Padilla
