As part of the summer festivities, Musikfest 2016 showcased the vocal talent of Lower Milford Township native Sabrina Carpenter.

At age 17, Carpenter possesses an entertainment resume about which many older performers only dream.

In 2011, she landed her first acting role playing a crime victim on “Law and Order: Special Victims’ Unit.” In January 2013 she was cast as Maya Hart in the Disney Channel series “Girl Meets World,” a role for which she gained wide recognition. A talented singer and songwriter as well as an actress, Carpenter released her debut single “Can’t Blame a Girl for Trying” in March 2014.

According to Carpenter, by age 10 she knew she wanted to become an entertainer and her family was supportive. Consequently, since the end of fourth grade at Lower Milford Elementary School, Carpenter has been home schooled so that she can develop as an artist while completing her education.

Newly returned from Australia, the young singer noted she had not been home for about six months.

This summer, Carpenter returned to her roots to perform at Musikfest. Those attending the pre-concert press conference found Carpenter charming, approachable and vibrant.

When questioned about her past experience with Musikfest, Carpenter related “[This is] where I grew up seeing concerts” and “It’s really, really special to be on the [Steel Stacks] stage.”

In reference to appearing for a hometown audience she stated, “[It’s] amazing – everyone is so excited.”

When asked to provide advice for a young singer, she spoke seriously and to the point,

“Find your own voice [and] work on your craft.”

Beneath Carpenter’s engaging exterior lies a talented, focused young woman. She explained her band, which includes her sister Sarah, has been evolving since she was 14. Carpenter released her debut album, “Eyes Wide Open,” in April 2015. This past July, the single “On Purpose,” from her soon-to-be-released second album, aired. Carpenter is currently preparing for her first official concert tour.

Like Adele and Christian Aguilera, two of her inspirations, Carpenter aims high and works hard. Hopefully, as her career expands and her fan base grows, she will again return to perform in the Lehigh Valley.