We caught up with John Wilson just moments before he took the stage to sing the national anthem in front of the hundreds that gathered at the 4th in The Falls festivities this past July 4th. We didn’t have long but managed to as him a few quick questions.
Been singing long? Roughly 30 years.
You sing classical style? Any professional training? Yes and I’ve had the same vocal coach for about 12 years. Her name is Rachel Kapelski.
At what events do you frequently sing? I sing for the hockey team throughout the season and I have the privilege of singing at various military events, for disabled veterans, and the downtown street festival.
How did you get chosen to sing the national anthem for the 4th in The Falls event? I had the privilege of doing a 9-11 tribute at Iron Horse Pub several years ago for Danny and John and I’ve been able to work with them on various other events. This is like the 4th time I’ve been able to do this event.
Do you ever get nervous singing the national anthem in front of large crowds like this one? Absolutely, I’ll just speak before singing and ask everyone to join me, and I pray a lot.
4th in The Falls with John Wilson’s Natoinal Anthem from Left Helm Media Group on Vimeo.
