🌟 LUCAS WEST 🌟 

Fredonia Senior Lucas West Shines as Finalist on NBC's "The Voice".

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Lucas West, a senior at the State University of New York at Fredonia, concluded his run on NBC's hit show "The Voice" during the season finale on April 14 earning national recognition for his performances throughout the competition.

West and three other finalists each performed two songs on the final episode.  West chose "Cold as Ice" by Foreigner and later in the show sang "Ordinary People" recorded by John Legend who was West's coach on "The Voice". West did not play the piano on "Cold as Ice" though played the piano without an accompanying band for "Ordinary People". 

"Your voice sounded more clear and powerful than ever.  I love that you did Ordinary People really on your own.  That is the purity of you.  I'm so proud of Lucas.  I love working with a real musician who understands what it means to be a pianist, be an arranger and of course what it means to be a great vocalist and performer."

 🌟 John Legend  🌟 

SUNY Fredonia held a watch party at the Williams Center to cheer for West during the finale.  Among the participants was Sarah Hamilton, Interim Dean of the College of Music, Theatre and Dance.

"On behalf of my colleagues and students, we are excited to see Lucas move forward with his dreams.  We are so glad to have been able to support him in this journey, and so very proud of all the work he has put in and the very talented artist he has become!"

Sarah Hamilton

West, as senior music major with a concentration in Jazz Studies in Fredonia's School of Music, advanced through multiple rounds of nationally televised competition, building a following with performances that highlighted his musicianship and artistry.  

His journey began in a Mason Hall practice room, where he recorded and submitted an audition video, a step that ultimately led to his selection for the show.  After progressing through several rounds, West received the news while on campus, calling the moment "an answer to alot of prayers". During the competition, he worked closely with celebrity coaches John Legend, Adam Levine and Kelly Clarkson, gaining insight into the professional music industry.  

"Working with the coaches is absolutely surreal.  You realize they're doing what all of us music students are doing, just at the highest possible level."

🌟 Lucas West 🌟 

While at Fredonia, West has honed his skills through performance-based learning including ensemble participation and individualized instruction.  

"The training I've received here has really shaped me, not just as a jazz musician, but as a musician overall."

🌟 Lucas West 🌟 

West's mentors in the School of Music said his combination of talent and curiosity set him apart early on.

Lucas came in with a strong skill set, but what makes him special is his openness to growth.  He's always learning, always exploring and that's what allows artists to reach this level.  There's a lot of power in what he does and learning to lean into that and express it fully has been part of his growth."

James Harrington, Assistant Professor of Voice

Harrington added that West's success reflects both his artistry and his ability to fully embrace his own voice.

"When I first met Lucas he was a naturally gifted musician who could rise to challenges very quickly.  What's been most impressive is his drive and his abillity to take advantage of every opportunity to grow."

Dr. Nick Weiser, Asssociate Professor and Coordinator of Fredonia's Jazz Studies 

Weiser added that Lucas stood out from the beginning for both his talent and work ethic.  Weiser noted that Fredonia's program structure helped support that growth.

"With a program our size, students can explore multiple areas and gain real performance experience.  That kind of versatility and preparation is what allows them to succeed at the highest levels."

Dr. Nick Weiser

West credited the university's supportive environment and faculty mentorship for helping prepare him for the national stage.  

"That cycle of support never felt disingenuous.  They cared about my success and my well-being first."

 🌟 Lucas West 🌟 

"West's national exposure reflects the strength of Fredonia's music programs and the opportunites available to students."

James Harrington

While Lucas' run on "The Voice" has concluded, he said the experience has had a lasting impact on his development as an artist.  

"My favorite part about 'The Voice' was meeting people who are tryng to hone their craft at a high level.  That experience is something I'll carry with me."

Lucas West

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Thank you, Lucas for sharing your talents with us.  It was a pleasure to meet you on campus prior to graduation during the Q&A event that showcased your personal experience on "The Voice".  Lucas has truly come "full circle" with John Legend from his mother, Kristen playing Legend music in their home to Lucas eventually meeting and performing with John Legend on "The Voice".  

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 Continue to Reach for the Stars, Lucas!