Jay Alan's Debut Concert

As a teacher, I wonder each year just what the future holds for my current students. Who will they grow up to be? (Or even, will they grow up? I have had two students die that I know of; perhaps there are more.)

Jay Thoennes came into my classroom as a quiet, gentle nine year old. I'd had his brother Drew, so I already had met Jay and knew him to be just as nice as his brother. (It's a family trait - the entire Thoennes family is terrific.) Jay was with me for two years and then moved on to East Tipp. 

A talented musician, Jay started a YouTube channel in 2015 that quickly went viral and now has over 64,000 subscribers. One thing led to another, and last summer he flew out to LA, signed a contract, and recorded his first album. To celebrate, Jay and his family held a debut concert for friends and family, with proceeds going to Hoops for Hope. I was invited to come as his guest.

Jay and me just before the concert began.

Jay wrote many of the songs he performed.

That's the promo photo behind him from Cold, the name of the single that was released February 1 on Amazon, Spotify, iTunes, and Apple Music.

Craig (also the Thoennes family's guest), Vanessa, and Curt joined me for the evening.

It was good to see big brother Drew (who I had for 2nd, 4th, and 5th grades) who is off at college but was able to get away from his studies and attend the concert.

Mark Thoennes, Paula Thoennes, and Drew Thoennes.

Best of luck, Jay! I hope you find success and happiness in your music career. And may I have your autograph? Silly me never saved any of your homework papers that had your name on it. Hah!