Two Shelton High performers going to state music event

Shelton High School students Sophia Nakhla and Richard Beckman were selected from thousands of applicants statewide to participate Feb. 16-17 in the Washington Music Educators' Association All-State Honors Groups in Yakima.

Nakhla, a junior, will sing alto with the All-State Treble Choir. Beckman, a senior, will play tenor saxophone in the All-State Symphonic Band.

The two will join other music students at the gathering and perform in Gala Concerts on Feb. 17 under the direction of noted conductors. They both sent performance recordings for judging.

Nakhla, 16, grew up performing with her five siblings in a family group – 8 on a String. Her first instrument was the fiddle. Her father, Paul, leads the choirs and singing ensembles at Shelton High School.

"We were always singing, as soon as we could," she said.

Nakhla sings with the school's Chamber Choir, Illusions Choir and The Shades. Along with singing first and second alto, Nakhla also sings first and second soprano. She noted that she doesn't have to carry a musical instrument.

"You have the instrument God gave you," she said.

As for the Yakima gathering, "I think it will be cool to sing in another setting," Nakhla said. Singing with other talented students will push her to higher heights, she said.

Nakhla said she plans to continue singing when she attends college and is considering studying for a children's ministry.

Beckman, 18, said he was surprised to receive the honor.

"I think I can sum it up as disbelief because kids from all over the state are competing," he said.

Beckman started playing saxophone in the eighth grade. He said he was already immersed in learning engineering and technology when a teacher encouraged him to try something new. He plays a variety of saxophones and a contra bass clarinet.

Playing the saxophone is a way to express emotions and sentiments he can't do in any other way, Beckman said. "It's really quite a spiritual experience," he said.

Beckman said he plans to earn a degree in engineering at the University of Washington. He said he plans to audition for the marching band and musical ensembles at the university.