[09/17/2010]--When Luke Roberts plays piano and sings, he is at ease and does so with a purely natural ability.  He is confident and plays his original songs with the grace and passion of a seasoned pro.

Roberts, who is from Laurel, Md., began his musical journey by learning drums when he was young.  He soon realized it was a hobby that was going to stick.  He eventually learned piano and began singing and writing songs.  His father was in a local band, and his brother Daniel, also a UMBC student, plays guitar, piano and sings.  His younger brother Michael plays bass, piano and sings.

Roberts entered the YOBISing contest in January of 2009, and only those with enough votes advanced in the competition until the contest closed this past May and a winner was selected. He made it clear that he wouldn't have gotten far without support. 

“It was cool for everyone else, almost like a UMBC victory too,” he said. “People I don't even know still come up to me and say 'congrats man!'”

Roberts admits he spent most of the money paying for school. 

“Always have back-up options,” said Roberts. “A huge part of me is engineering.”

He also emphasizes that music is sometimes a profound experience, and that he strives to connect to people with his art.  This is something that he shares with his brothers.

If you plan to enter the YOBISing competition this year, Luke Roberts will greet you on the website as the host of the third season. 

(9/17/10)

Original Story: http://www.umbc.edu/window/luke_roberts.html