When Opportunity Knocks

Sometimes opportunity knocks right on our own backdoor. 

OCS senior Gavin Buhr is a student in the Institute of Arts and Innovation Music Production pathway. Like all the other IAI pathways, the courses aim to prepare students for practical application.  

But before having that diploma in hand, Buhr is already using his skills to benefit the OCS community. He recently took on a unique and vital role as the sound designer and audio engineer for the high school’s fall production of “Our Town.” Buhr is only the second student to fill this role in the school’s 25-year history, and the first IAI music production student to do so.  

Mikey Tonery, the lighting designer and production assistant for “Our Town,” was Buhr’s ninth grade advisor. Tonery recalls Buhr’s freshman beginnings.  

“He was looking for a place to slot in with his music production and I suggested he do tracks. He fell in love with it and has been our tracks operator ever since,” he said.  

Buhr learned the ropes of being a tracks operator for the school’s 2022 fall production of “Fiddler on the Roof,” a highly specialized role that requires an understanding of sheet music.  

Thinking back on his initial introduction to sound design, Buhr recalls “At first, I didn’t really understand any of it. It just kind of looked like a bunch of knobs.” 

Since then, Buhr has been assisting with and growing his skills in sound production, helping with chapels, main stage productions, and various “Arts Under the Oaks” events.  

His responsibilities in “Our Town” as sound designer and audio engineer meant navigating challenges in an ever-changing environment.  

“There isn’t a dedicated tech booth,” Tonery explained, “So Gavin had to adapt as we adjusted the space during tech rehearsals, from open rehearsal rooms to a seat-filled theater which completely altered the acoustics. He never once seemed stressed. Being in IAI Music Production, he has the backbone of the musicality to make tracks, edit, and run with it.” 

The production required the kind of musical sensitivity and mixing understanding which Buhr has honed over years of study and practice as evidenced by his songwriting, tracks operation experience, and finely tuned rhythm on the bass and drums. He also has a side gig as a DJ, playing at various holiday events and parties.  

But his technical aptitude is not the only part of his success. Buhr’s path has also been shaped by his Christian faith.  

“Music is not the only thing that Oaks has given me. Oaks also taught me who God really is. He gave me a gift in music, and not only do I feel like I should use it, but I want to use it. This is where my passion is and I've never been happier,” he shared. 

Looking ahead, Buhr has his sights set on colleges with strong music programs where he can also develop his understanding of the business side of music, like Berklee College of Music and Belmont University.  

“I want to keep growing my skills in music production and songwriting. I’m open to wherever God takes me.” 

Despite his accomplishments, both on campus and off, Buhr’s humility is evident. As he reflects on his journey, he is thankful for all he has experienced.   

“I sometimes think, how did I get here? From wanting to be a Christian rapper to becoming an EDM producer and sound mixing for theatre— I'm extremely grateful I was given this opportunity and excited for what God has in store for me next.”