“I’ve learned about time management, confidence, and preparation,” said Marianee A. “Time management from scheduling and making sure it aligns with other events, confidence after playing in front of audiences and judges, and last but not least, preparation. I like to believe preparation is the most valuable one because it leads to success.”
A drum major, Karla R., said she’s gained better leadership and communication skills that help her both in her roles in high school and beyond.
“I am in the band council, vice president, social chair, and a librarian in the band. All those titles have given me a purpose to help and lead others with what they needed,” she said.
For Kevin L., band teaches lessons in resilience and pushing forward, even on hard days.
“I’ve learned a lot of everyday life lessons like taking care of myself, failing is part of the progress, and that I won’t wake up and become the best player in my instrument. I have to work for it,” he said. “Band teaches us how to hold our own weight and learn from ourselves in the process.”
Marianee, Karla, and Kevin were among several students who participated in a recent district-wide showcase, known as the Solo and Ensemble Musical Festival.
The annual event is a significant milestone for young musicians that gives participants a chance to perform solo pieces or collaborate in small ensembles before a panel of judges. Their performances serve as preparation for the road to competitions, offering an opportunity to refine their skills and gain valuable experience.
Beyond musicianship, the festival, which was held at TJ this year, reinforces key life skills, like collaboration, perseverance, and time management, that students learn in their classrooms.
“It’s an opportunity to challenge ourselves and take on music pieces we thought we couldn’t play. Pushing yourself to play a complicated piece will only help build skill,” Marianee said. “Pieces I was hesitant to play at first glance turned out to be the reason my range, tone, and sight-reading skills improved tremendously. It builds confidence as well. Playing in front of a judge at first is always scary, but after a few times, it becomes easier as it builds confidence.”
Back at TJ, band members say they’ve fostered a sense of belonging and community, and some of their favorite high school memories are from the band.
“Marching competition has a special part of my heart due to the tears of joy and hard work that we, as a band, have shed. There are so many memories with people that I love and care about.”
Marianee, who started participating in bands in middle school, said it was the people and the long practice sessions that brought her back every year.
Inspired to join the band by her sister, Karla’s advice to students who want to get involved is to take a chance on themselves.
“You can play a new instrument and play your favorite songs on it. Go ahead and do these new and unexpected activities,” she said. “You gain confidence and a purpose to lead and want to do better.”
