Whiz Kid: Allie Nelson

Name:  Allie Nelson

Age:   8^th Grader

School:  Walter C. Polson Middle School

Accomplishment:   Allie Nelson loves to sing. She has been singing since she was a toddler and taking lessons for the last three years.  Even with all  her years of experience it came as a total surprise when she was awarded the annual National School Choral Award at the Polson Spring Choral Concert.

When announcing the award, Music Program Coordinator Paul Thomas said she was chosen because of her outstanding conduct and effort, vocal ability, and contributions to the success of the Polson choral music program.  “What made Allie stand out were her very expressive singing style and her friendly and outgoing personality,” said Thomas.

“I was really happy,” said Allie. “I felt like I really had worked for it.  It’s an award for something I’m really passionate about." 

Key to Awesomeness:  When she first started taking lessons the warm-ups and voice exercises did not seem important to Allie, but she soon saw their benefits.  “I improved my range, improved the notes I could sing and it made me feel much more confident about my vocal ability.”

In addition to her formal vocal training, Allie enjoys participating in local musical theater productions.  Currently she is involved with a production of The Wizard of Oz through Artful Living.  Prior to this production she was cast in Barnum at the Ivoryton Playhouse. 

Allie’s mother, Ann Nelson, says she noticed her daughter’s musical ability when she was very young.  Ann remembers listening to her daughter sing along with music playing in the house.  “She had perfect pitch,” says Ann.  “I was not raised in a musical family and I never had a real appreciation for someone who was right on!  It was amazing and many times I said ‘Does that come naturally, Allie?’”

Ann says it is wonderful to see her daughter enjoy this gift, “She gets such joy from it!”

Music is something that Allie can envision being a part of her future.  “I just love it because it’s a way for me to express myself.  I love the sound of it and I love the feeling it gives to me,” says Allie. “It’s a satisfying thing!”