Do what you love. That’s exactly what the LaVallee family told their son Jacob as he was growing up.

Since the he was 8-years-old, Jacob LaVallee has been playing the piano. Ever since the first time he sat down on a piano bench, it was obvious he had a gift.

“I’ve always enjoyed music,” LaVallee said. “Piano was just fun for me.”



LaValle has a new CD out and it’s entitled “Serenity.” The CD is a collection of pieces that LaVallee wrote himself.

“I chose the title Serenity because it means a state of absolute peace,” he said. “A moment of serenity is a moment without any worry. I hope people feel that way when they listen to (my music.)”

LaVallee admits he’s never been fond of practicing, but says that it is necessary.

“I’ve never really enjoyed practicing. I like being creative with my music,” he said. “I was never patient when it came to practicing written songs that other people wrote. I like to write the music I hear in my head.”



LaValle’s CD which was recorded in a studio in Orlando features six of his original works.

“My favorite piece (on the CD) is called “Exhortation,” LaVallee said. “It’s just really fun to play.”

LaValle’s music is mostly classical, but it also fits into a relatively new musical genre.

“It’s called ‘New Wave,’ he said. “It’s just another term for modern contemporary piano music. They just made it sound cooler.”



LaVallee’s CD will go on sale at the annual Mayfair by the Lake on May 13.

“It should be fun,” he said. “I’m going to have my own tent and I’m going to set up a keyboard and play some music while my mom tries to sell CD’s”.



LaVallee hopes to attend Florida State University in the fall where he will continue his musical training as a music composition major.

“My goal is to write and compose music for TV shows and movies,” he said. “I would like to write something on a grand scale like (the music from) Lord of the Rings. That would be awesome.”