AHS welcomed Grammy-nominated violinist Jenny Oaks Baker on Jan. 25 at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium to celebrate young musicians and motivate them to stay on with the music program.

Baker began playing at the age of four and is best known for her accomplishments in classical music. She is known all over the world for the powerful emotions and mastery that her performances emit.

“It’s extraordinary to have a musician of her caliber known all around the world come and perform for our strings students and their families,” orchestra teacher Stephanie Lewis said.

Her performance locations have varied from Carnegie Hall to the Lincoln Center to Strathmore Hall to the Coolidge Auditorium to the Kennedy Center.

“It’s great that she is coming to perform at AHS for us and we do not have to go to the Kennedy Center [to see her],” Sophomore Eric Mejean said.

The performance was sponsored by the Poe Middle School Orchestra Boosters and all strings students and families were invited as special guests. Donations were suggested and all proceeds will go to the Poe Boosters.

“This is a way to encourage students to stay in strings and continue in the musical department,” Lewis said.

Baker’s major accomplishments include her Master of Music degree from the Julliard School in New York City. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, one of most prestigious music schools in the country.

Because she is known around the world, many students were disappointed in the lack of enthusiasm for Baker’s visit to AHS.

“I’m disappointed that so many people got excited over Michelle Obama coming, but no one is aware that a Grammy-nominated artist will be performing for us,” senior Danielle Turner said.

Even with the lack of attention, Baker’s visit supported musical education and left a memorable impression for the students and families in attendance.

“It’s a true honor that she is able to perform for students and family,” Lewis said.