OPPORTUNITY: Poly students, choir teacher Kristen Pickering and orchestra conductor Robert Haberador, record and collaborate with “Rocky” Peter Ajoku, an American Idol contestant.
By Kate Santoso, Staff Writer
It was a thrilling experience for Poly’s music department to record with Ajoku. The talented singer shared his incredible life story with the Poly Orchestra and Choir.
As a boy, Ajoku grew up in Nigeria where life was challenging. Schools were not suitable for children, farm work was exhausting and money was hard to come by. Regardless of the many hardships, Ajoku kept music a central part of his life. “I sang through my rise and falls and realized music always stayed with me through the hard times,” he said. With music boosting his optimism, Ajoku managed to come to the United States to obtain a proper education.
As a college student at the University of California, Riverside, Ajoku received a degree in biology, intending to become a doctor, but the moment Ajoku picked up a guitar, he discovered music was what he wanted to pursue. After graduating, Ajoku became homeless. He played guitar and sang songs every day for people on the streets.
The first day of recording for orchestra was January 20. Musicians from orchestra could hardly wait to record and meet Ajoku. “The situation was unique because you don’t get to see a man who has endured so many hardships every day,” cellist Michael Utterback (9) said.
The recording process was lengthy; overall, it took a total of four days to record the orchestra until the piece sounded flawless. Poly’s orchestra conductor Mr. Robert Haberador and Ajoku constructed the piece that was played and recorded by the orchestra. “I thought it was a good experience to see how people write and record music,” violaist Halana Macamay (9) said.
The American Idol contestant also recorded his own song “Good Day” with the Poly Chamber Singers. The vocalists recorded on December 30 with Ajoku. “Working with Rocky was awesome! He is extremely talented and genuine,” Choir Vice President James Gjurgevich (11) said. His single “Good Day” will be coming out soon, along with a music video which reflects his life’s journey.
The talented singer expressed his appreciation for Poly’s encouragement and assistance. “I feel so grateful and honored to have the support of Poly’s wonderful staff and students,” Ajoku said.
A boy who started with nothing is now a finalist for American Idol. Ajoku is an inspiration to all and as he said, “If you want something bad enough, go out there and get it instead of waiting for someone to get it for you, because you are responsible for your own success.”