Snohomish's Talented Musician
Written by Eyonna Mason, Former Student on Thursday, December 11, 2014
The student body of Snohomish High School is bursting with creativity. Within the mass of artists of different medias, one particularly shy musician stands out from the rest.
Rachel Westbrook, a Senior at Snohomish High School, has been playing violin for several years; however, Westbrook has transformed herself from the common violinist to an experienced street musician. She began to play outside her house when her step-mom took her and her sister to nursing homes to play for their residents. Once she became comfortable performing, Westbrook and her sister decided they wanted to profit from their gift.
Not wanting the hassle of setting up gigs or performances, the two sisters decided to take to the street. “We just took our instruments out on the street, and sat out there for hours and played for everyone,” said Westbrook. The pair were a regular occurrence on First Street in Snohomish during the summer, playing a wide variety of music.
Westbrook began with classical music, but as the summer progressed, she played more and more movie soundtrack pieces, with her favorite being the main theme to Pirates of the Caribbean. She very commonly switches genres, never failing to surprise.
As she played throughout the summer, Westbrook experienced a growing feeling of satisfaction and pride in her performances. “It’s satisfying to know that people appreciate our music. It’s a good feeling.”
For those of us that have not had the pleasure of experiencing her wonderful gift of music, Westbrook plans to continue her performances this coming spring and summer on First Street and well as the greater Seattle area. Keep an eye out for this young musician; and be sure to keep your ears open as well.
