At the 2024 Musical Performance Assessment ( MPA ) on March 17th in Disney World, senior Gabe Pfief walked away with an award no one expected to see.
He accompanied the West Johnston High School Honors Chorus, which is directed by Joshua Johnson. Gabe performed two songs with the chorus, “ I Dream A World” and “Bésame Mucho“.
Gabe Pfief has played piano with two other groups, one being the West Johnston Jazz Ensemble and a small Jazz combo. He has also joined other big band orchestras. Gabe has been in the theater program and honors chorus for 3 years.
Despite his 3 years in honors chorus and theater, the 2024 MPA was his debut into the choral accompanying world, and he practiced a lot to feel fully prepared for this competition.
“I watched tons of videos and immersed myself in the music to get a good understanding of it.“ He disclosed as one of the many ways he worked to practice and prepare.
Gabe Pfief’s hard work paid off, as he was awarded best student accompanist, something that shocked him. “I did not know about the award, and we don’t typically get a rundown of them.“ he responded, also including that he was happy to have received this award.
“ He did amazing on the songs he played. “ Ivan Villalobos, a senior tenor in the honors chorus spoke on how Gabe’s playing was during the competition.
Gabe was the only one to be awarded for his playing with the chorus group, which added to the shock. “I thought [it] was a little strange considering the size of the other choir ensembles and orchestras.“ He expressed was a part of his initial reaction.
“ It was really exciting when Gabe got the student accompanist award. He definitely deserved it for the work he put in and the undeniable talent. “ Shared another peer, Cassidy Weal, who is an alto in the honors chorus. She recognized how talented Gabe is, alongside how hardworking he is.
Even though he was shocked, Gabe still gladly accepted this award, and left the competition feeling more confident in his playing skills.
“ I really enjoyed the trip. It was such a joy to experience it with the people I love and I think if anyone ever has the chance to do it, they should definitely do it. “
