Liam Bauer’s choir career has been one of growth, confidence, and leadership. Since middle school, Bauer has not only developed as a singer but also as a young leader. Bauer has been active in theater and choir at West throughout his high school career. Putting countless hours into his craft. Even though Bauer isn’t pursuing theater after high school; the lessons he has learned on the way will only help him in his pre-law track at Grand Valley University. Choir Teacher and Musical Director, Erich Wangeman, has spent time with Bauer since middle school, and during the musical season, watching him progress.

  “Through singing and music, he has strengthened his communication skills and his leadership skills. I’d like to think that choir helped him to be more confident and to realize his potential as a super strong member of any team,” Wageman said.

  Bauer didn’t start as a leader, but with determination, he quickly worked up to it to fill the role. Bauer started as a freshman in Chorale Aries, then became Westman, and finally Chorale all within one year. Alongside his choir abilities growing, Bauer’s positive attitude makes him stand out as a leader. Alice Bauer, L. Bauer’s little sister, has followed in his footsteps while also pursuing a career in choir. 

“Liam stands out as a leader by his choice of words; he always has something good to say, no matter if it’s a bad situation or not,” A. Bauer said. 

  Beyond his positive attitude, having a community helped L. Bauer find his voice.

   “Although I have never taken a theatre class, musicals have taught me to be very outgoing and express myself in different ways. Choir has been a place to learn about history and just enjoy music,” L. Bauer said. 

Bauer and A. Bauer have created a strong connection through many shared activities, including choir and swimming. A. Bauer and L. Bauer spend lots of afternoons outside of choir, swimming at the Y for the Breakers. A. Bauer has had the opportunity to directly watch Liam grow in many different aspects through different activities.

  “For the musical, he used to be terrified at singing on stage, and last year I got really emotional because if you would’ve seen him freshmen year, its like he would’ve never gone up on stage and sing, and last year he took that away and was so brave you would’ve never guessed it was liam because he used to be so nervous about that but not anymore,” A. Bauer said. 

  In the musical, L. Bauer has gained a new level of confidence on stage and developed skills that will serve him well in his post-high school career. Many people who have watched his earlier performances have been impressed by his growth both on and off stage. Through consistent practice and dedication, L. Bauer has developed abilities that allow him to embody a character and express emotions in a new way, so that everyday activities don’t require as much emotional awareness. 

  “Liam didn’t think of himself as an actor, and the two lead roles he’s had in “Joseph” and “Little Shop” really challenged him to learn and grow on stage. I think he learned to be a stronger performer, a more confident singer, and a better communicator and actor through those experiences,” Wangeman said. 

  As a student who participates in multiple activities, balancing life, school, and extracurriculars can bring some challenges, but overall, the experience is worth it to L. Bauer. Looking back, the challenges he faced have pushed him to become the best version of himself and shaped how much he appreciates having activities that pushed him beyond his comfort zone. 

 “My advice to an underclassman would be to keep pushing. It seems like a lot, but it will be the biggest highlight of your school career,” L. Bauer said.

  As L. Bauer prepares for his next chapter, he hopes the next generation of performers will persevere and stick with the program, as it will all be worth it in the end.

  “Liam is a terrific young man!” Wangeman said.