Rockwood Spanish Attends Justo Lamas Group Concert

Ennio Rocks the Stage

On April 10, 2013, the Rockwood students of Spanish 3 and 4 attended a concert by the Justo Lamas Group at the Chestnut Ridge Church in Morgantown, West Virginia.  The concert was an exciting experience, in which students enjoyed music, while embracing the Spanish language.  It was a hands-on learning experience, as students were chosen from the crowd throughout the concert to take part on stage.

The show was performed by Justo Lamas’s new partner, Ennio Emmanuel.  He rocked the stage, singing highs and lows with ease.  In addition, the auditorium shook with loud bass and treble, provided by an excellent audio system.  The auditorium was amazing, and the church is one of the most beautiful that I have ever seen.

All of the Justo Lamas Group’s songs had modern tones and beats, appealing greatly to the teenage crowd.  It was a perfect way for teens to learn the Spanish language and culture, as it blended styles of music that they knew well with a way of life different from their own, which they are in the process of learning.

Throughout the show, several Rockwood students were chosen to participate on stage with Ennio Emmanuel.  First was Kiyan Fisher, whom was invited on stage to rock Spanish instruments during one of Ennio’s songs.  He played with enthusiasm, as shown in the video below.

The show was not simply another concert.  It combined music with motivational speaking, in which Ennio spread the message that “nada es imposible” (nothing is impossible).  He told the story of his life, stating that he believed that he was incapable of achieving success as a kid, but followed his dreams and ended up making out doing what he loves the most: playing music.

Later in the show, I was invited to join the stage, where I showed my dance moves with several other students in front of the entire crowd.  It was a moment of fame for me, in which I showed off my clubbing skills.

Why can’t girls get this excited when I sing to them?
Image via Lacy Faidley

Near the end of the show, one Rockwood girl, Amber Carr, had an opportunity that touched her heart, as Ennio walked up to her, put his arm around her, and sang personally to her.  This excited her greatly, as shown in the photo above.

Señora Receives a Hug From Ennio

Later, Ennio walked around and personally hugged each teacher that had brought their students to the program.  Señora Minor, our Spanish teacher, was one of those that he walked up to and showed his gratitude to.  She has been an awesome teacher over the years and has brought many great opportunities to students of the Rockwood Spanish program.

At the end, the crowd flocked around to get pictures with Ennio and purchase his various merchandise.   It was clear that they had loved his show and were excited to personally meet him. 

The Justo Lamas Group did a great job of bringing the culture and language of Spanish to teens in a way that greatly appealed to them.  They engaged in the concert with excitement, gaining knowledge in a language that can help them in their future business and personal lives.  I personally enjoyed the concert and believe that events like this have the ability to teach students much more than learning in the traditional classroom setting.

Share your experience at the Justo Lamas Group Concert below or send me your photos for inclusion in this post.