March 2011 Student Artist of the Month

The March Student Artist of the Month is Holden Akers-Toler. Holden is a Junior at Shady Spring High School in Raleigh County.

The March Student Artist of the Month is Holden Akers-Toler. Holden is a junior at Shady Spring High School (Raleigh County). He is the son of Toneta Akers-Toler and Acie Toler of Beckley, West Virginia.

Holden is a member and section leader of the Shady Spring High School Marching Band, Concert Band and Jazz Band. He is a member of Theatre West Virginia’s Youth Troupe, a summer intern professional company, where he spends every summer performing in multiple shows, six nights per week, at Cliffside Amphitheatre in Grandview, WV.

He has earned several musical distinctions and has played with the All State Band, West Virginia Governor’s School for the Arts, WVU Honors Band, Marshall Honors Band, Southern West Virginia Honors Band and Concord Honor Choir.

Holden was nominated by his teacher and Theatre West Virginia drama coach, Marina Hunley. “This young man is amazing,” said Hunley. “Not only because he loves all of these things but, he is really very good at each discipline. He has an incredible work ethic and spends many hours each week perfecting his crafts.”

Holden’s involvement in the arts began at a very young age, but it was not until age seven that he landed his first role in Theatre West Virginia’s production of Honey in the Rock. He has worked at the theatre every summer since. Holden also found his love for music at a young age. Piano was the first instrument Holden learned to play. He then added guitar and percussion to his repertoire. Three years ago, he found two new loves, voice and dance.

According to Holden, he grew up in a public school system with exceptional music instructors. He and his family understand and appreciate the importance of arts education programs in schools and know what the benefits of being a part of a strong program are.

According to Holden, "I have been influenced by the arts my entire life. Growing up around Theatre West Virginia and being the son of a dancer has allowed me the unique exposure to the most fantastic people the world has to offer. I see these people living their arts. When I became mature enough I started my own artistic life in a variety of art forms. I was very fortunate to have incredible music teachers at school and other artists that are teachers for after school study. Every day, I take part in something that allows me to grow as an artist. Most of my time is taken up in this process. I wouldn't have it any other way!"

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