As the curtain falls, and the lights begin to dim, junior Louis Olmeda listens to the whispers of the stirring audience. With a deep breath, he steps onto the stage, ready to sing his heart out.
The annual Bowie’s Got Talent showcase had 17 acts, which each performed different skills. Omelda was ultimately crowned the winner due to his performance of “Dancing on My Own” by Calum Scott.
“I was surprised because everybody that performed was honestly really good,” Olmeda said. “My expectation was just to have fun. Even though I was a little nervous to sing, I was happy with how I did and how the audience reacted.”
According to senior Student Council Co-president Noble Cox the student council worked to ensure that Bowie’s Got Talent provided a memorable and enjoyable experience for all participants and attendees. The council put in hours to plan the event by setting up meetings in fits to be able to manage logistics and create an atmosphere that celebrates the incredible talents of their fellow students.
“I helped organize and promote the event, while also playing a part in judging those who have auditioned,” Cox said. “I feel honored to be able to create something for my fellow students and for an audience to see. I was really happy afterward because the event was a total success. I think any of the performers deserved the win, and Louis’ voice was fantastic.”
Olmeda has been singing since the fourth grade, and has been an active member of the choir since then, building a solid foundation for his musical journey. However, his interests are not limited to music. Olmeda has also played baseball since he was four years old. He now finds joy on the baseball field as a pitcher.
“It’s pretty hard to balance,” Olemda said. “Baseball and choir are the most busy in the spring, so I try to be fair to both and not miss too much of either. I’ve always said that I would do music on the side, but I’ve never seen myself focusing on that solely, because I want to play baseball in college. I don’t know what I will do in the future.”
Olmeda is currently one of the choir hospitality officers. The choir program collaborated with the student council to put on Bowie’s Got Talent. According to the choir co-president, Bubba Infante, the program did more logistical and stage work while the student council was responsible for advertising and hosting the event.
“I met Louis through choir,” Infante said. “We have worked on many things related to music together, and he assists the leadership in many tasks for the program to make mine and Aaron Bourgeois’ life easier. He is a very talented singer who puts a lot of work into what he does and is very kind.”
Olmeda says he has always found unwavering support from his mother, Katie Olmeda, throughout his musical journey. Not only does she represent parental guidance; she embodies his inspiration as an artist.
“My biggest inspiration is my mom,” Olmeda said. “She’s the only one in my family that sings, so she’s always encouraged me to do it. Everybody in my family encouraged me, but my mom reminds me, ‘If you’re gonna sing in front of a crowd, just have confidence in yourself.’”
The Olmeda family has always embraced music, according to his mother Katie Olmeda. Many of their extended family members play instruments, establishing a history of musical influence in Louis’s life. Katie loves to sing, even if her performances are confined to the car or shower, Louis has still felt inspired by her voice.
“I can definitely carry a tune,” Katie said. “I’ve never felt comfortable singing in front of people like Louis does. Louis sang all the time from the time he was a toddler, so it was a natural thing when he began. Louis brings so much emotion into the pieces he performs. He sings with strength and control but definitely from the heart. As a person, he is dedicated, kind, intelligent, and has a great sense of humor.”
According to Katie, the audience roared with excitement after Olmeda stole the show. She was filled with anticipation and pride as she watched everyone gather to support Olmeda while he was crowned the winner.
“Watching Louis win the talent show was so fun,” Katie said. “It was such a special moment. He works hard at everything he does, so it’s nice to see him recognized. It was extra fun that many of his Bowie baseball teammates were there watching and cheering for him. It was rewarding to watch him excel at what he loves.”
