Adkins’ interest in music was almost inevitable. Music was a staple in his household growing up—his parents didn’t have any formal musical training but were avid music lovers. Adkins fondly recalls attending concerts with his father and learning to sing harmonies with his mother to any song on the radio. “I was developing ear training without even realizing it,” said Adkins. His musical prowess quickly became apparent to his parents, who strongly supported it.

A native of West Palm Beach, Adkins officially started his musical journey at Palm Beach Public School. Initially, he was part of their chorus but left searching for an activity that catered more to his musical affinity. Following the advice of his director, Andy Matzkow, Adkins joined the strings program, where he fell in love with playing the bass as an eight-year-old. He continued to follow this passion, attending Bak Middle School of the Arts, followed by Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts—the high school that helped him develop his interest in symphony orchestra.