An evening of beautiful violin music and orchestral performance at Owings Mills High School became even more memorable when orchestra director Lisa Benett paused the concert to honour three graduating students she described as deeply special to her.
The performance on Monday evening, May 18, held in the school’s main auditorium before parents, students and guests, featured a variety of orchestral selections played with violins and other string instruments.
The students performed well-known pieces including The Bosai Tree, Dedication Fanfare, Spirit of an Eagle, Dance of the Tumblers, Jurassic Park, and arrangements inspired by Black Violin.
Throughout the evening, the orchestra entertained the audience with powerful violin melodies and coordinated instrumental performances that drew loud applause from those in attendance.
In the middle of the show, Benett took a moment to specially recognize three students preparing to leave for college — Demilade Olowosagba and Funmi Bello, both Nigerians, and Angely Prudencio from Honduras.
Speaking emotionally to the audience, Benett explained that the students held a unique place in her heart because they all arrived at the school four years ago — the same year she began teaching there.
According to her, she had watched them grow over the years, not only as musicians but also as young adults preparing for the next phase of their lives. Speaking with Yankee Scores, Lisa Benett said:
“All three young ladies — Demi, Funmi and Angel — are just wonderful young ladies. They are leaders within the school. They give so much to the community, and I have really enjoyed my time teaching them and watching them grow.
“They have really progressed so much further academically and musically. I want to see them happy and successful in life, and whatever that definition means, I would like to see them follow their hearts and follow their dreams.”
The recognition became one of the most touching moments of the evening when she invited each student to perform a solo piece before the audience.
One after another, the students stepped forward with their violins and delivered confident solo performances that earned cheers and applause from parents and guests seated inside the packed auditorium.
Parents were encouraged to support their children in exploring their talents, especially for students like Demilade Olowosagba and Funmi Bello, who came from Nigeria, where opportunities and access to musical equipment such as violins and orchestra programs may not always be readily available.
Addressing Nigerian mothers and parents, Benett encouraged families to support their children’s gifts and interests from an early age. She added:
“I’ll say to mothers back home (in Nigeria) to really nurture your children’s gifts, whatever they may be. It is worth the time spent in sports, music or academics because if you don’t try something, you may never truly discover your potential.
“Try new things and stay committed to them. The best thing you can do is find something positive every day. The person you should focus on being better than is the person you were yesterday. Focus on your skills and continue growing.”
Owings Mills High School is famous for producing some of the best students, when it comes to the use of musical instruments. In February, students from the school performed at the Senate House in Annapolis at the program ‘District Night’, where their performance was branded ‘extraordinary’
Owings Mills High School Performs Tonight at the Senate House in Annapolis for “District Night!” What a pleasure and honor! Our students were extraordinary! Thank you for the amazing opportunity! All student voices are important! @BaltCoPS @terri_moses pic.twitter.com/xTD85StvCG
— OwingsMillsHS (@OMHS_Eagles) February 2, 2026
