Van Alstyne High School senior Luca Raner has spent four years making his mark on the VAHS drumline. This week, his dedication to music, leadership and his fellow students earned him a $1,000 scholarship.

Raner was awarded the Texoma Excellence in Fine Arts Scholarship, presented by Sherman Chevrolet and Texoma Chevy Dealers in recognition of his achievements in percussion and contributions to the VAHS band program.

For Raner, that passion for percussion started long before high school.

“Even the earliest memories I have of my dad were him showing me stuff on the drums,” Raner said.

During his time at VAHS, Raner has become a two-time Texas 4A All-State percussionist and two-time Outstanding Performer in Solo & Ensemble. He was also selected to perform with the Arsenal Drum & Bugle Corps in 2026.

For Raner, however, some of his favorite memories are less about individual honors and more about performing alongside his classmates.

“There have been some moments where it’s just been so freeing for me to be able to perform with the people that I love,” Raner said.

VAHS teacher Dacia McBryde nominated Raner for the scholarship.

“Not only is he an excellent percussion student, an excellent member of our band, he is truly a leader of the senior class,” McBryde said. “He leads by example and sets a wonderful example for the underclassmen and all of his peers.”

That leadership includes taking time to tutor and give lessons to less-experienced musicians while balancing advanced-level classes, Student Council, community service and a 4.79 GPA.

Raner said his four years on the VAHS drumline have also taught him lessons that extend beyond music.

“Definitely work ethic and just a lot of life lessons,” Raner said. “Our instructor here is really big on things that are applicable not only in drumline, but everywhere.”

The recognition came as a surprise to Raner.

“It’s a great opportunity. I’m very blessed,” he said. “It was a shock — a total shock.”

Raner said having one of his own teachers nominate him made the recognition even more meaningful.

“I’m very thankful for her and for her recognizing me,” Raner said. “She is one of my favorite teachers.”

After graduation, Raner plans to attend a four-year university and major in engineering. Although he does not plan to pursue music as a career, he hopes to continue performing with a college band and percussion line.

As he prepares for that next chapter, Raner has some simple advice for younger musicians following behind him.

“Enjoy what you’re playing,” Raner said. “Try to push your own boundaries, and even if a challenge is way too hard for you or a piece of music is something totally out of your reach, just do it anyway.”