Bryce Wilks, Judah’s Father
For Judah Wilks, a love of music started with a keyboard in the basement during the COVID-19 shutdowns.
Now, just a few years later, the Marshfield student is earning recognition for his piano talent and preparing for new opportunities in music.
According to his father, Bryce Wilks, Judah joined the family as a one-year-old and showed an interest in music from an early age. During the pandemic, Judah's grandfather brought over an old electric keyboard to give the kids something to do while spending more time at home.
That simple gesture turned into something much bigger.
Judah began teaching himself songs by watching online videos. Before long, he was figuring out chords, melodies and techniques on his own.
“He just took an interest in it,” Bryce said.
The family later connected Judah with piano instructor Mark Lawley, and his skills quickly grew. Today, Judah practices regularly, often spending hours at the piano simply because he enjoys it.
His father says no one has to remind him to practice.
“We’ve never told him he needs to go practice,” Bryce said. “He just loves it.”
Part of Judah’s musical ability may come from his natural coordination. Bryce describes him as somewhat ambidextrous, able to use both hands comfortably in sports and music.
In addition to piano, Judah plays basketball and has competed in track. He has also participated in church music programs and school band, where he played percussion.
Music remains his biggest passion, though. Along with classical piano, he enjoys music production and recording. He uses a keyboard connected to a computer to create and mix music and has developed a knack for hearing sounds and recreating them by ear.
Bryce says what stands out most isn't just the talent. It's the self-motivation.
Whether it's a busy school week, basketball practice, or a free Saturday morning, Judah usually finds his way back to the piano.
Mark Lawley, Lawley Studio
For most eighth graders, practicing piano for two hours a day might sound like a chore. For Judah, it’s simply what he loves to do.
That dedication is paying off.
Judah recently earned a spot as pianist for the Springfield Youth Symphony after a challenging audition that tested both technical skill and sight-reading ability.
His piano instructor, Mark Lawley of Lawley Studio, said Judah stands out not only because of his talent but because of his maturity and work ethic.
“He’s truly exceptional,” Lawley said.
One recent highlight came at the Pittsburg State University Music Festival, where Judah performed Chopin’s “Funeral March,” a piece lasting about 12 minutes. Lawley said judges praised the young musician for his thoughtful interpretation and musical sensitivity.
When asked how much he practiced to prepare, Judah's answer surprised even his teacher.
“Two hours a day,” he said.
No one required him to do it. He simply enjoys music that much.
Lawley said Judah also excels in athletics. Last year, he and his brother helped break a school relay record, then broke their own record later in the same season.
Still, Lawley says what impresses him most is Judah’s character.
“He’s confident, but not arrogant,” Lawley said. “He just wants to do his best.”
That attitude showed during the Springfield Youth Symphony audition. In addition to performing, Judah was asked to play scales and sight-read music on the spot, including a violin part rather than a piano score.
He handled the challenge well and earned a place in the orchestra for the upcoming season.
For Lawley, the future looks bright.
“With his dedication and talent,” he said, “there are going to be many more opportunities ahead.”
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