How much do you know about your teachers? Perhaps they have a talent, collection, hobby, or obsession you knew nothing about; perhaps you can relate to them given you share the same. Periodically, we are going to share with you the secrets concerning your teachers few know about.
Today’s spotlight: Ms. Shearer
Talent: Banjo
You heard it right! Ms. Shearer has taken up banjo playing over the last year, and is becoming quite the musician. When asked about her new interests, she responded with the following:
1. What intrigued your interests?
My papaw played the banjo when I was growing up. So, I always wanted to learn how to play. He always said, “he could make that banjo sing.”
2. What do you enjoy the most about it?
“The sound. It just reminds me of home when I hear a banjo. I grew up hearing it at 6am on the front porch when we would visit Hazard. My papaw always practiced in the mornings.”
3. Why the banjo?
“If I’m not wrong, it’s considered a difficult instrument to play so I did want to challenge myself. I’ve never played anything before, but I never had an interest in anything else. So, I had been hunting for a full size one for a couple years. I couldn’t find one that wasn’t $2000 or cheaply made. Then one of my mom’s friends was selling his first banjo, so he let me buy it about 2 months ago. I have been practicing on a mini banjo for a year. (Think like a ukelele banjo) It was hard to use since it was so small and wasn’t very good to learn on. But since I’ve gotten my full size one; it’s been a game changer.”
4. How long have you been playing? Is it challenging?
“I’ve been playing for about a year. It is challenging, and I’m still learning a lot. It’s hard to figure out how to pick the banjo, but once you get it down; it does get easier!”
Way to take on a challenge, Ms. Shearer. We hope to see your talents come spring at the WVHS Talent Show. Teachers Got Talent; Ms. Shearer is evidence.