Pratt always loved a wide variety of songs and instruments as a young boy. After the purchase of a guitar a few years ago, his drive to perform really accelerated.

“I bought a guitar right before the (COVID-19) pandemic (in early 2020), because I was just beginning to dive into older music and it was featured in many songs that I enjoyed listening to,” Pratt said. “I didn’t truly start learning until I owned it for a few months, then I decided I was going to finally figure it out on my own.

“There was quite a big learning curve, but eventually — and without even really being aware of it — I made it through the tough part and came confident in my playing.”

Music has always heavily influenced Pratt’s daily activity and lifestyle.

“Ever since I can remember, my parents have been playing music in the house. As I grew up, I enjoyed listening to music any chance I got,” Pratt said. “I really started to get into it when I got my own iPod, because I could make my own playlists and find new songs.

“At that point, I was playing in the middle school band, and although I didn’t stick it out, I really enjoyed playing with a large group of kids and making fun music.”

The music that the Fort Dodge Senior High School senior listened to — anywhere from the radio to YouTube — was something he loved, but he also wanted to make something original. He started writing his own songs not long after honing his skills on the guitar.

“I really enjoyed the music I listened to; I wanted to both replicate it and create my own,” Pratt said. “Creating music is something I’ve always found interesting, so I decided I was going to take action and start learning more.

“I didn’t really get good at the guitar until maybe a year and a half into owning it. It took a long time and a lot of work for me to learn the basics, and even longer to become very confident in my playing abilities.”

Once it became second nature, Pratt started sharing his talents in Fort Dodge and communities around the area. He opens for other regional musical acts, while also playing his own sets from time to time.

“I’ve always enjoyed performing for others, but sharing my own creations and renditions of songs was something that really clicked with me.”

In his four years as a Dodger, Pratt has been actively involved in clubs and organizations well beyond music. He has been a member of the Dodger Senate for four years, and is currently FDSH’s student body president.

On stage, he has participated in the fall play, musical, speech and choir. He is also involved in the Little Dodger, varsity golf, and the SkillsUSA competition.

“I believe my passion for acting stemmed from loving movies throughout my life. Just like music, movies were a thing my family and I watched a lot growing up, and that always seemed fun to me,” Pratt said. “In my early middle school days, I joined an acting club and enjoyed all my time spent there.

“Due to playing baseball, I unfortunately could never really get involved in the Stage Door summer productions (in Fort Dodge), so when the musical in seventh grade rolled around, I was very eager to join.”

Just like his music, performing on stage was a chance for Pratt to share his own story while connecting with the crowd.

“I enjoy performing for people and telling a story,” Pratt said. “Making the audience feel the emotions I have felt when listening to songs or watching movies or productions.

“Whether it be a comedic performance in a play or a sad song, emotions are so interesting to try and recreate, connect and capture.”

Being a part of student government allowed Pratt to help make a difference on behalf of his classmates.

“Going into high school, I had heard a lot about student government and figured it would be interesting to be a part of decisions to help make the school a better place,” Pratt said. “I didn’t really care if I was helping to bring back a certain cookie in the cafeteria or decorating for Christmas – it all seemed important in its own way, and has all been very enjoyable.”

As his time winds down at FDSH, it’s not always about the big moments or the memorable experiences. Little pieces bring everything together for Pratt.

“I think the stuff that I’ll miss the most will be the stuff I don’t really realize yet,” Pratt said. “Little details, like random people you have conversations with and the variety that different classes bring to each day.

“I really enjoyed my last golf season. The team environment was awesome and I got to see some really good young golfers for us that I can continue to follow in the coming years.”

Finding and trying new things at FDSH has always been one of Pratt’s main priorities.

“I liked to stay involved to meet new people and experience new things,” Pratt said. “Your future job might stem from a random class you sign up for and find out you actually enjoy, or your future best friend could be a kid who you do an activity with during your freshman year.”

Pratt also shared his voice in choir and during FDSH’s musicals.

“I view both choir and acting as a medium to convey emotion, whether it be happy or sad, and I always aim to have the audience share in those feelings,” Pratt said. “Being a part of two years of musical performances with so many talented people has been truly incredible.”

After high school Pratt will attend Iowa Central Community College. He plans on continuing to play music and working on cars in his free time.

CENTER STAGE WITH EVAN PRATT

Vacation destination: California.

People I would like to have dinner with: my great grandpa Bob.

It would surprise people that I: enjoy drawing a lot.

Performer that inspires me: Joe Walsh.

My everyday role model: My parents.

I can’t go a day without: My guitar.

Where do I see myself in 10 years? If I’m not still in Fort Dodge, probably moving back.

What are you listening to right now? The Eagles.

Dream piece or show: Oklahoma.

A show you binge watch: Friends.

Favorites…

Musical: Oklahoma.

Performance: The Turnpike Troubadours last summer in Waite Park, Minn.

Music genre: Country/Folk.

Song: The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.

Instrument: Acoustic guitar.

Class: Anything Automotive.

Movie: Love and Mercy.

Book: Watchmen.

Phone App: Tik Tok or Spotify.