Oakville High School sophomore Samuel Engel has been making waves in the local music scene.

Starting his musical journey on drums during the COVID-19 pandemic, Engel has since moved to the bass guitar, performing in two local bands: Aragon, a teen trio cover band started by Engel that plays a mix of ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s rock — “the era when rock ‘n’ roll was at its best” — and Torchlight Parade, an original band started by his dad, Doug Engel, and uncle, Matt Engel.

“I love playing bass because it allows me to perform, move, dance, and act instead of just being behind the drums,” Engel said. “It gives me the chance to be more involved with the audience.”

As Aragon was a finalist in the 2025 St. Louis Teen Talent Competition —  a local event that provides high school students with the opportunity to celebrate their love of the performing arts while competing for scholarships, cash prizes and a chance to perform on stage at the Fabulous Fox — the trio will be featured on Nine PBS on May 6 at 7 p.m., May 11 at 7:00 p.m. and May 12 at 5:00 p.m. 

Read more about Samuel Engel’s musical journey in the May 22 edition of The Call.

Editor’s note: The May 8 print edition of The Call stated that Samuel Engel attends Mehlville High School. While in the same school district, he attends Oakville High School.