Music has always been a great outlet for young artists to express themselves, especially for the students at Fresno Christian. From starting a band to singing the national anthem to performing on stage, students use their musical talents to inspire others.
Alumna Ellie Gonzalez, ‘23, and sophomore Gavin Gonzalez, ‘27, did not initially plan to start a band together. After being let go from another band because of creative differences, they wanted to cultivate a place where original music could be crafted with freedom.
Both siblings have played music in church and choir. Gavin started playing the drums at age six and has always dreamed of being in a band. Ellie loved singing and was unsure about starting a band, but she later embraced the idea.
“Because at the end of the day, it’s Gavin who really loves it,” Ellie Gonzalez said. “I love it too, but it’s Gavin’s thing. He’s the musical one. I do a lot of other things. He’s the one who’s writing. He’s doing the mixes. I just help with the lyrics.”
Since Kutie first formed, they have performed as a three-person band. The band has played over 60 shows, performing roughly two shows a month. The siblings emphasized that their favorite thing about performing is the feeling that comes with achieving their goal of having fun and inspiring others. Their shows often include local friends’ bands, enhancing the tight-knit music scene that exists locally. The band practices together in a home studio that the Gonzalez family has built up over the years with equipment and instruments to help create their music.
Local news outlet Great Day, a branch of FOX26, reached out to Kutie to highlight the local band. Great Day was referred to Kutie by a local radio host who had previously interviewed the band. Kutie used this opportunity to publicize their band and grow its success.
“It was a very cool opportunity,” Gavin Gonzalez said. “Everyone was super nice, getting to see our band on TV was amazing.”
Challenges can occur in the creative process, especially when it comes to writing songs. Ellie and Gavin Gonzalez, along with their third partner, Tzela Yaish, are currently working on several new songs. Kutie has made its way to Spotify, and they have even begun to gain fans from different countries.
Ellie and Gavin Gonzalez display passion and resilience, representing the essence of young talent in the music industry. The school also has other outstanding musicians, making a mark in theater and beyond.
Fresno Christian sophomore Lillian Gainer is no stranger to the stage. As a high school student who loves music and performing, she has worked for years to hone her skills, earning opportunities such as performing at Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater and singing the national anthem at Monster Jam.
Gainer received the opportunity to sing at Monster Jam through her grandfather. When a security official from Monster Jam reached out asking if he knew anyone who could sing, Gainer’s grandfather did not hesitate to recommend her.
Beginning her stage career at a young age, Gainer started taking voice lessons when she was seven years old and performed in her first musical at age six. Her experience in performing is built upon a foundation of years spent working hard.
Gainer’s journey has not only been an exciting adventure for her but also an inspiration for those around her. Junior Gianna Oberti, who has known Gainer for two years, expressed her excitement for her friend’s success.
“I was there when Lillian got the news to sing for Monster Jam; we were both so ecstatic, even though I never got to see her perform in person,” Oberti said. “I saw the video, and she did amazing. She has such an amazing voice and is talented in so many ways.”
Working with established theater companies such as Shine! Theatre, Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre, and CMT have allowed Gainer to develop her stage presence and her skills as an actress and singer. Her first year in Fresno Christian’s drama program has proved to be a new and welcome challenge that she is enthusiastic about, despite the occasional stress.
For Junior Caleb Tuck, singing the national anthem at the FCS boys’ basketball state championship game was an experience he will never forget. Tuck had asked before about singing at a different game but was asked by FC school principal Amy Deffenbacher to do the honors at the biggest boys’ basketball game in Fresno Christian history. His performance filled onlookers with a sense of spirit and pride.
Tuck was nervous singing for the Boys Basketball State Championship, but it felt easier after he received some encouragement from the Chamber Choir’s music teacher, Susan Ainley.
“His voice is rich and full, and he has worked hard to become a very good singer with a wide vocal range,” Ainley said. “I know he valued the chance to do something important, and he was prepared. He did great, and again, so proud of him.”
Singing has always been a part of Tuck’s life. He grew up in a family that possesses ample musical talent. He sang in the church children’s choir and continued to sing as he went through high school. Tuck now sings in Fresno Christian’s Chamber Choir, along with working with the school drama program. He will perform as Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music this spring.
His past experience includes performing in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee as a freshman and singing in the choir. With his developing talent and confidence, Tuck is sure to leave his mark on the stage, whether in choir, theater, or even at the next big game.
The stories of all these musically talented students show the dedication and passion of these Fresno Christian performers. As they continue to advance each of their talents, they serve as an inspiration to their peers and prove that the arts are alive and thriving at Fresno Christian.
To see these students in action, both Gainer and Tuck will be performing in “The Sound of Music“ play May 1-4, 2025. As for Kutie, their next performance is at Tower Porchfest on April 26, 2025.
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