By Emma Dalton, staff writer
Most people can learn how to throw a ball, however, the average person can- not belt out some of the highest notes on a piano. Indian Trail Junior McK- enna Ruchti just happens to be one of these above average vocalists.
After watching her sister’s perfor- mances for so many years, Ruchti began musical theatre at the young age of 8. Ruchti was instantly hooked.
“I realized that when I am onstage singing in front of a crowd of people is when I am at my happiest,” she said.
As she entered high school she began to compete in the Solo and Ensemble competition. As just a freshman, she scored a “1*” the highest possible score at the regional competition, so she qualified for state.
Now, as a junior, she again got to compete at state and once again re- ceived the highest score. However, to her biggest surprise, as she was unaware the position even existed, McKenna was also named an exem- plary soloist of the competition. She was asked to perform in the Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) conference in Madison.
“To be chosen out of so many people across the whole state to perform with only nine others is absolutely insane and mind blowing,” said Ruchti. “I am just very thankful for being given the opportunity.”
Unfortunately, Ruchti was unable to perform in Madison due to her involvement in the Kenosha Unified production of Hello! My Baby. She would have been performing her musical theatre solo “In His Eyes” from the Jekyll and Hyde production.
“I would have been extremely nervous to perform,” Ruchti explained. “I still get butterflies before I go on stage for the- atre, and I have been doing that since fourth grade.”
Ruchti hopes to continue with music after high school.
“In college I most definitely want to join choir and hope to major in music therapy,” Ruchti said, “I am keeping singing in my life, and I am doing something that I love- work- ing with children.”
Keep an eye out for this rising star, as she continues to make a huge vocal impact on the community.