Freshman Alexander Frese commenced his musical career when he was just 12 years old and currently participates in the St. Charles High School Jazz Band. His instrument playing abilities consist primarily of the trombone and electric guitar. On Dec. 18, 2023, Frese was given the opportunity to perform the Star Spangled Banner during a home game against Winfield High School. Even with his performance being embedded spontaneously, Frese was successful with obtaining love from the crowd.
“Mr. Blankenship came to me very last minute. Five minutes before the game he came to me and asked if Alex could perform,” Activities Director Ben Owens said, “I asked if he was good and Blankenship responded ‘yeah’ so we got everything set up for Frese.”
Frese explained that it was a bit of a grapple to acquire this opportunity.
“This [performance] wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t pushed for it to be that night and I was also a little nervous doing it.”
Sophomore Karen Romero Medina, one of Frese’s jazz band peers, was fascinated by Frese’s performance.
“Watching him play the guitar left me flabbergasted. It was amazing,” Medina said.
Owens explained how Frese reminded him of a famous guitarist from the ‘60s.
“It was great. He was like a young Jimi Hendrix,” Owens said. It was great. He was like a young Jimi Hendrix.” — Activities Director Ben Owens
Frese’s commitment and efforts made it possible for him to rock out with his performance.
“I think you should always push for what you want to do. you make your own decisions for your future and you shouldn’t let anything get in the way of it,” Frese said.
