Evan Dickson
Evan Dickson has been surrounded by music his entire life.
“I remember as a small child falling asleep to the sounds of Mozart or Beethoven. There is always music playing in our house whether we are eating breakfast, washing the dishes or playing Ping Pong, there is always something playing in the background.
“When I was 3 years old, I would sit with my brother as he took piano lessons. Watching him have fun I knew I wanted to be a part of that. I learned to play the piano when I was 5, but have only really concentrated on piano the last three years,†he says.
That concentration recently paid off for Evan when he got the privilege to perform in two New York City prestigious halls. As a result of his wins in The Brooklyn Intercontinental Piano Competition, he performed a solo piece at Steinway Hall and a duet at Carnegie Hall. He performed “The Rain†by Alexander Peskanov at Steinway Hall and the duet “Calliope†by Peskanov at Carnegie Hall. He performed the duet with Hannah Fantin.
“I was surprised and excited. I knew this was the start of something amazing. When I was on stage playing, I thought about all the phenomenal artists who have performed in that same hall. I could not believe how lucky I was and how this moment would change my life,†he says.
Evan began playing classical music, but recently has been immersing himself in jazz piano. In addition to the piano, he has studied violin, mandolin, dulcimer and drums. He plans to add the guitar to his instruments.
“I have a friend who studies guitar. We enjoy playing together at the local music store. He plays the guitar; I accompany him on the piano. He is encouraging me to learn the guitar so we can play duets.
“Music is a way for me to escape the stress of life. Music relaxes me and gives me joy. I love how music sets us apart as individuals. I am fascinated with the joy music brings to others. It is a catalyst that brings us together.
“The person who encourages me to push myself and strive for my best is my teacher Carol Stone. She is patient and kind. The composer Alexander Peskanov inspires me to try new music. My mother motivates me to practice. Contemporary music artist Charlie Puth and Bruno Mars awakened my desire to learn jazz piano,†he says.
Last year, Evan sang with the Kingsport homeschool choir. This year, he was invited to accompany the choir on piano.
He plans to attend the University of Tennessee and hopes to attend medical school. He says music will always be a part of his life.
Evan is the son of Dr. Richard and Heather Dickson, Kingsport, Tennessee. He is in the ninth grade and is homeschooled.
