a Ton of talent

​By Dave Merchant [email protected]
 
Chelsea High School has many talented students and athletes. Thomas Kennings, a senior for the Bulldogs is not only involved in the orchestra he is in several other sports and activities as well.
“I play classical violin (in school, Michigan Youth Symphony Orchestra, auditions for all-state, etc.),” Kennings said. “I play Fiddle Music (Chelsea House Orchestra, North Creek Fiddlers).”
Thomas also wrestles and runs cross country for the Bulldogs. He is a member of the LINK Crew at CHS and has earned the honor of Boy Scouting (Eagle Scout).
Big moments in academics are many: The highest is scoring a 1520 on the SAT.
He also has many wonderful memories: “I loved traveling to China with the Chelsea House Orchestra,” he said. “Also, doing my Eagle Scout service project and playing at the Michigan Irish Music Festival with Crossbow.”
Physics is his favorite class. His favorite teachers are Eric Swager, Jed Fritzmeier and Matt Pedlow. “My favorite classes are AP Phyiscs C: Electricity and Magnetism (physics),” he announced. “Also, AP Language and Composition (English).”
His favorite music is Mongolian/Tuvan Throat singing (The HU, Huun-Huur-Tu, etc.).
“I like backpacking and camping,” he said. “My parents and sibling are: Valerie Kennings (mother), Michael Kennings (father) and Sarah Kennings (sister).”
He plans to reach for the stars in the future. “I’m currently applying to several colleges with the hopes of working in the aerospace engineering field one day,” he said.
Influences for him include Steve Chapman, Eric Swager and John Zainea.
He has good advice to be involved in music: “Want to be a musician,” he said. “Practice. As a writer must write and a sprinter must sprint to improve their craft, so must you practice with focus. There is no other way. Practice can become dull, of course, even to high level performers. For this reason, you must seek your place in the greater community of music that encompasses all genres to find deep enjoyment in your art.”
 

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