FINE ARTS STUDENT OF THE WEEK

Nick Schwen

Grade: Senior.

Age: 17.

Art focus: Brainerd High School (BHS) Wind Symphony/Jazz Ensemble.

Adviser nomination: “Nick is an outstanding percussionist in both Wind Symphony and Jazz Ensemble I. He is a two-time nominee to the Central Lakes Conference All-Conference Honor Jazz Ensemble I, which met Monday.”

Artist most admired: Buddy Rich, an American jazz drummer.

Memorable fine arts achievement: “Playing in numerous festivities throughout Minnesota and playing with Steve Turre, the trombone player for ‘Saturday Night Live,’ my sophomore year through Jazz I in Minnesota.”

Do you play anything else besides percussion: “I also play the piano. I started taking piano lessons when I was in first grade. My grandma got me interested in it. I took lessons for nine years.”

When did you get into percussion: “In sixth grade. I really wanted to play the drums because it suited me.”

What percussion piece do you enjoy playing most: “I like playing the drums in Jazz Ensemble the most. It allows me to be creative and express who I am.

“I started playing jazz in 10th grade. I didn’t know jazz at all, but I picked it up quickly. I didn’t listen to jazz music much, but the more I played it the more I like it, it’s an acquired taste.”

Proudest song you have performed: “‘The Chicken.’ This was my first solo I performed at a concert and it pushed me to increase my skills in playing jazz music.”

You are in a band: “Yeah I play drums in our group with a couple of older guys (Jim Olsen on guitar and Greg Breen on bass). We call ourselves Blue Moon and we play gigs around the area. We had one in Breezy Point, one at Grand View and we’ve played in the bandstand at Gregory Park. Mr. (Chris) Fogerud (BHS band director) also has played with us before.”

Best TV show: “The Walking Dead.”