A Musical Foundation in Highland

Growing up in Highland, Chris had a deep passion for music and sports. He immersed himself in a range of musical activities through the public school system, leaving no stone unturned. His musical journey began with participation in the Highland Orchestra, under the guidance of esteemed directors Mr. Loos and Mr. Leonard-White. He also found his voice in the Highland Choir, where he was nurtured by the talented Mr. Markley. And his love for the performing arts extended to the theater, with Mr. Domasica as his mentor.

In addition to his school activities, Chris received valuable music lessons from Lisa Hedin and Earl Harville at HGS in downtown Highland. His dedication to the arts didn’t stop there; he frequently performed at various Highland events, whether as a solo artist or alongside collaborator Hailey Bohlin. Highland locals may fondly remember Chris gracing the stages of events like the Festival of the Trail, The Highland 4th of July Fest, Farmers market, and being a familiar face at Sip Open Mic Nights.

The Berklee Experience and Beyond

After graduating from Highland in 2018, Chris embarked on a journey to fulfill his dreams. He pursued his passion for music at Berklee College of Music, where he earned a degree in Music Production and Engineering. This was a pivotal step in his journey, as it equipped him with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the music industry.

Post-graduation, Chris quickly made a name for himself with an impressive list of achievements. He contributed background vocals to the Jonas Brothers‘ “Remember This,” the song that captured the spirit of the 2021 Summer Olympics. His co-writing credit on Lizzy Mcalpine’s “How Do I Tell You” showcased his songwriting prowess. Moreover, his engineering credit on Gayle’s hit “abcdefu” helped propel the song to the top of the Billboard Global 200 chart in 2021, earning a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year in 2022.

A Worldly Adventure

Chris’s journey extended far beyond the music studio. He ventured around the world while working on a cruise ship for four months, gaining a wealth of experiences that would inspire his future music. From the Holy Land to the Mediterranean, Bahamas, Panama Canal, Brazil, and even the Amazon Rainforest, his global adventures left an indelible mark on his creativity.

Bringing It All Back Home

Returning to his roots, Chris released his debut album on November 3rd, an accomplishment that held a special place in his heart. Much of the album was recorded in his parents’ home in Highland, adding a touch of nostalgia to his music that resonates with locals and fans worldwide.

Acknowledging Highland’s Influence

Throughout Chris’s journey, he never forgot the people who played pivotal roles in his development. He credits the Highland Choir Director, David Markley, Highland Orchestra director, the late Phil Loos, and Lisa Hedin, among others, for their invaluable guidance. In a heartfelt acknowledgment, Chris emphasizes the profound impact of Highland’s public school system on his success, highlighting how it provides a nurturing environment for dream chasers like him.

Conclusion

The journey of Chris, the talented singer-songwriter from Highland, Indiana, is a testament to the power of a supportive community and an excellent public school system. As he continues to make waves in the music industry, his story serves as an inspiring example for Highland’s youth, showcasing that dreams can be realized with dedication and the right support.

Highland can indeed be proud of nurturing such incredible talents, and Chris’s story reinforces the belief that, with the right foundation, anything is possible. It’s a testament to the potential that exists within every small town, waiting for the opportunity to shine on a global stage. Highland, a place where dreams are fostered, is indeed something to be celebrated.