Written by Newspaper Staff Reporter Avery Myers

Alyssa McBride is Allatoona's Artist of the Week. Alyssa is a part of our top orchestra group, Sinfonia, is a mentor for the Camarata group, is a member of the Tri-M music honor society, is a player in the Fiddler's group, and is a part of the student orchestra board. She also designed the t-shirt this year for the orchestra. Alyssa is a talented musician and has been playing for seven years. During those years, she's learned how to play the cello (her primary instrument), the bass, and the violin. Alyssa says, "Music has always been a part of my life and a source of comfort for me in many ways. I see it as a way to inspire and encourage as well as so much more. I have always held the belief that music is capable of improving lives so much more than can be understood." Mr. Palmer, Allatoona's outstanding orchestra director, recognized this love of music and chose Alyssa as Artist of the Week. He says that the choice came from the fact that "Alyssa McBride is the epitome of an artist. She has high personal standards, is well disciplined, and is very talented. I can think of no one more deserving of this honor!" Currently, Alyssa is sharing her talents with others by offering lessons and says, "I plan to go to college to earn a music education degree and become an orchestra teacher." Alyssa's lesson for younger musicians is to work hard but enjoy music as well. She says, "My advice for younger musicians in any music program is to keep trying to do the best you can. Take it seriously, but continue to have fun with it, and don't push yourself too hard. Music doesn't have to be your absolute passion to have fun with it. Music has endless possibilities, and you have the opportunity to try new things and push those expectations." Alyssa is a gifted musician and an excellent choice for this week's Artist of the Week. 

Photos provided by Alyssa McBride