Music has been part of Raleigh Eversole’s life since birth, in part thanks to both of his parents’ careers as music educators. Growing up, the Palmer Ridge High School senior found himself dragged to frequent concerts, and in time enjoyed them because he found people were unified by the music.
After dedicating countless hours to honing his own musical skills, Eversole is celebrating one accomplishment that few can claim: He’s been named to every single Colorado all-state musical category, including choir, jazz, orchestra and band for the 2022-2023 season.
“I’m very flattered to have received the accolades I have for being selected to play in such high caliber ensembles, but I always remind myself that the achievements are only fruits of my labor, and that excellence isn’t a measure of talent but a measure of grit,” Eversole said, reflecting on his upcoming performances.
Eversole took time while reflecting on his accolades to thank his family, including his mother Cynthia Eversole, who teaches music at Lewis-Palmer Elementary School, and Butch Eversole, who is director of bands and academic chair of arts and electives at Palmer Ridge High School.
“I’m so very thankful for having such a supportive family that has continued to encourage my musical development,” Eversole said. “Music is something I was born into, but it’s been my choice to remain involved in it and to do so at such amplitude.”
Thanks to his proficiency at singing and playing multiple instruments, including bassoon and saxophone, Eversole is now contemplating how to take his musical passions to the next level.
“I’m definitely pursuing music as a career past high school and have narrowed down my college choices to IU Bloomington, CU Boulder, and KU,” Eversole said. “But time will tell where I end up and what I’ll end up doing.”