Severna Park Student Wows Oregon Ridge

Lauren, my wife, and I love to attend the 4th of July celebration at Oregon Ridge. We brave the crowds and heat, because we know that in the end we will have another good memory for our later years.

Lauren is a life-long resident of Severna Park and a graduate of Severna Park High School. (I would tell you the year if I had a death wish) We've lived in Severna Park for about ten years. Although we have lived in other places since our marriage, we always celebrate our 4th of July the same  way. First, we watch the Severna Park Parade. Then we go home, pack, and head for Oregon Ridge.

Oregon Ridge always provides wonderful entertainment. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra never fails to deliver a solid and stunning performance. And, if there is a guest soloist the show is even better.

This year the guest performer was Katie Van Kooten. She is an opera singer with an exquisite soprano voice and has performed all over the world. In addition, Erin Paxton of Severna Park, would sing the National Anthem. 

Erin is a student at Severna Park High School and a member of the Class of 2014. It turns out, that young Miss Paxton was a winner in the 'O Say Can You Sing' competition. Her triumph made us the real winners, as Erin sang the Star Spangled Banner to open the concert.

Of all of the singers, professionals included, none can hold a candle to Erin Paxton. Erin sang the Anthem with respect, and she made the BSO sound even better...I didn't think that could be possible.

And, while Ms. Van Kooten's superb and vibrant voice was an uplifting  treat, Erin was, hands down, the jewel of the celebration. Erin didn't need any gimmicks or flash to hold the attention of the audience. Her voice and style did the work for her. 

For me, it was refreshing to hear our National Anthem presented without the flip and trashy antics of celebrity singers and musicians in the past. Erin was a class act all the way.   

On our way home this time, I didn't mind Lauren's crowing.