HHS grad, Nashville artist performs at school prior to benefit concert

By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

Hays High School class of 2012 and Nashville singer/songwriter Max Walker, 21, is and Alex Renbarger, a 2015 “American Idol” contestant, warmed up for a benefit concert with a performance at Hays High School late Friday morning.

As a student at HHS, Walker was a percussionist in the Hays High Band and a member of the Chamber Singers.

HHS Principal Martin Straub said he was not surprised to see Max performing.

“He was always talented when he was here,” Straub said. “It’s very cool to see someone following their dream.”

In between venues for their “No Rest Midwest Tour,” the two singers and songwriters arranged a stop in Hays to help local woman Mary Grizzell in her fight against cancer.

“It’s always fun to help people in need and, when you’re doing music, it’s always good to do it in a positive way,” Walker said.

Mary Grizzle Benifit — Mary Grizzle Benefit

The Mary Grizzle Benefit Concert is at Union Station Coffee and Roastery, 1007 Vine, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday.

All proceeds from the freewill donation concert and raffle will go toward Grizzle’s medical expenses.

Following the benefit, both Walker and Renbarger also will perform at Singers, 114 E. 12th, at 10 p.m.