“People who know me know that this is so far out of my comfort zone,” Mr. Vehon explained. “I’ve never done anything like this before, which is exactly why I decided to go for it!”
Mr. Vehon was one of 50 people to enter an air conducting video in the preliminary round of the contest. Theatre Arts teacher Sheri Tuggle helped with a bit of choreography, and Video/Graphic Design teacher Michael Arndt worked his magic turning the green screen into the Plaza de Toros. Mr. Vehon’s enthusiasm, showmanship, and theatrical air conducting style of “March of the Toreadors” from the opera Carmen earned him one of five spots in the final round.
On Saturday, January 27, which by no coincidence is Mozart’s birthday, Mr. Vehon dressed up as Mozart himself and air conducted “Symphony No. 25” before a live audience and a panel of judges. Much to his surprise, Mr. Vehon was selected as the big winner based on his technical skill and unique conducting flair!
“I was so surprised when I won. I think this contest was a great opportunity for my students to see me let loose a bit and try something new,” Mr. Vehon said. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to travel with my wife to Austria in June. I’m most excited about visiting Salzburg, Austria, which is where Mozart was born.”
If you need a good laugh, take a moment to watch the video Mr. Vehon submitted for the air conducting contest: https://youtu.be/M4YLSYgXE6I