21-04-2025
Teenager using music and positivity to make an impact
BEAVER MEADOWS, CARBON COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Getting through the teenage years can be challenging for many children, but some manage to channel their energies toward making a positive impact.
A Beaver Meadows teen is an example of the latter by making a joyful noise in his community.
'I've been interested in music and playing the piano for a long time,' said Sam.
16-year-old Sam Parker has such confidence at the keyboard, it's as if the Immanuel Christian School sophomore was born to play.
He plays a worship song called 'Sinking Deep', which is his own musical arrangement. With each key and chord Sam strikes, a melodic prayer resonates for all to hear.
'It's just like relaxing, and also it's just great because then it's also a way to make some good friends. Like you could all be hanging out and there could be a piano there and just people could start singing, you could start playing, and it's lots of fun,' explained Sam.
This shared love of music plays out during most school lunch periods, but not at Immanuel Christian School.
'It's always nice, especially when the kids come and sing. It just fills us with beautiful music,' states Mark Peterson, Executive Director at Hazleton Art League.
Sam and his fellow students often collaborate in song at the nearby Hazleton Art League.
'He's the leader of the choral group that comes in. When he sits down at the piano, everybody just bursts into song, and you know it brings a lot of positivity to this space,' explained Peterson.
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Positivity is something Sam's pastor says happens even when Sam steps away from the piano.
'He's also been super involved with a lot of parts of our church, whether community service, serving the community, being a part of the behind-the-scenes aspect of the production that goes on for our Sunday morning services,' said Pastor DJ Galade, Fairth Church Hazleton.
These are just some of the reasons why Sam is considered a blessing to those whose lives he touches.
'He has a genuine care for others and just enjoys being of service and can make any event more fun,' stated Pastor Galade.
'You can tell it's, it's Sam who's there helping everything along, and it's really great,' said Peterson.
Looking toward the future, Sam says he could see a life in music, or ministry, or both, but for now, he'll keep making a joyful noise and inspiring others.
'So, I think if you make anything fun, then people are actually excited to be part of something,' said Sam.
Sam also dabbles in drama and will co-star in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. Show dates are May 8, 9, and 10 at Beth Israel Temple in Hazleton.
Here's to you, Sam!
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