PANOLA COLLEGE PIPER, SHAWN YODER TO APPEAR ON 'AMERICAN IDOL'  

On September 4, Panola College student Shawn Yoder will travel to Houston to perform on the television show “American Idol.” Shawn had to out perform 3000 other participants to earn the right to go to Houston to compete for the coveted title “American Idol”. On September 4, he and twenty-nine other contestants will be performing in front of the show’s panel of celebrity judges Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell.  

Shawn attributes many of the skills he has learned to time spent as a Panola Piper. “Much of my success so far is attributable to Mr. Brumley and the time I spent as a Panola College Piper,” said Shawn. “Mr. Brumley taught me how to establish eye contact with the audience and how to have good stage presence. The judges commented that theses skills contributed to the strength of my audition.” 

The Panola Pipers show choir has toured in 14 states from the Rocky Mountains to Washington D.C. and has performed for the Governors of Colorado, Mississippi and former Governor of Texas, now President of the United States, George W. Bush. They have performed for Shriner’s Childrens Hospitals in Louisiana, Texas, Missouri and Kentucky and have been featured at the Texas State Fair for 22 consecutive years. Most recently, they traveled to Washington D.C. to perform at the White House. 

Panola Piper’s Alumni include the award winning country music artist, Linda Davis, Natalie Woods, host of the Austin morning television show “Hot On”. Cody Mahaffey and Vanessa Blaylock Mahaffey of the popular Southern Gospel group, Safely Anchored are also former Panola College Pipers. 

When asked about Shawn’s success, Mr. Larry Brumley, Director of the Pipers responded, “We strive to instill the highest level of professionalism in our students. Many have gone on to establish prominent performing careers. I am very proud of Shawn and wish him the best of luck”.