Article by Emily Wang, White River Now
Micah Kelley (pictured), a 17-year-old senior-to-be at Southside Charter High School, is set to perform a melody of Elvis ballads at the historic Ryman Auditorium on July 16. Known for its illustrious history as a world-renowned concert hall and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame landmark, the Ryman Auditorium was once home to the Grand Ole Opry.
Kelley, a self-taught pianist, began his musical journey at the age of 10 by watching online videos. His aunt and uncle, owners of the Franklin Brentwood Arts Academy in Franklin, Tenn., noticed his musical talent and offered him online music lessons with their instructors. When asked if he found online lessons challenging compared to in-person teaching, Kelley mentioned that, though it is difficult at times, he was already used to learning online.
During the Franklin Brentwood Arts Academy’s biennial event, for which they rent out the Ryman Auditorium every two years, Kelley shared that his first performance there took place two years ago, where he played a Chopin piece.
In addition to his lessons and self-teaching efforts, Kelley plays piano at Tavolo, a local Italian restaurant in Batesville, every Saturday morning from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and on Sundays at his church, and he also teaches piano locally.
With his musical talents extending beyond the piano, Kelley actively participates in his high school’s band and choir, having earned spots in the All-Region Jazz Band for piano, All-Region Choir, and All-Region Band twice for percussion.
Discussing his upcoming Ryman performance, Kelley revealed that he learned the music he will be playing by ear.
When asked for advice for musicians just starting out, he said, “There’s no reason you have to buy a big piano or hire the best teacher. Try things out to see if you enjoy it first; you can always go bigger later.”
Micah Kelley will perform as part of the Franklin Brentwood Arts Academy event on July 16 at 6:30 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit the Ryman Auditorium’s website by clicking here.
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