In 5th grade, I joined the intermediate school band as a clarinet player. I was extremely horrible at clarinet when I first began, to the point where it’s almost embarrassing. I enjoyed my time in the band throughout the next three years, making memories and having the opportunity to do some extra activities, like honor band. When I hit the end of my 8th-grade year, I had essentially come to the decision that I wanted to drop out of band in high school. I didn’t think I was going to have the time and extra energy for all of the work that was necessary for marching band, but my brother tried to convince me otherwise. Needless to say, I’m extremely grateful that I ultimately decided to stay.
Without a doubt, I can say that sophomore year marching band single-handedly shaped me into the person I am today. Some of my greatest band memories came from those five months (July-November) in 2021. Once we started practices in the summer, Covid had laid off, meaning we could do some of the activities that occurred prior to the pandemic. The most important of these was band camp. Band camp consists of one week in a summer camp, an hour away from home, with limited cell connection. The week is filled with hours and hours of practice, marching, and more. On top of this, we also did a multitude of fun activities, like a talent show, minute to win it, lake activities, games, and a few dances. Band camp brought together the organization in a way that I had never seen before, and I became infinitely closer to everyone. On top of the band camp experience, the marching season was untouched. Our music was top-tier, and there was never a dull moment at football games. Sophomore year also marked the first year that I auditioned and got into the wind ensemble, further uplifting my experience in the band. I honestly don’t think any other experience I had in high school outdoes how amazing that year was.
Looking back on it, junior year was the year I fully came out of my shell. In the years prior, I may have been outgoing, but I was still an underclassman with no real influence. However, my junior year changed that. I vividly remember when I met the incoming freshman and realized that the age gap between me and the class that had just graduated was the same age gap between me and the incoming freshman. I immediately decided that I would do everything in my power to make their experience as great as mine was. While we didn’t go away for band camp (which I am still rather upset about), we made the most of what we could at home. The marching season was a blast, but throughout the entire season, there was one thing looming on everyone’s minds: Disney. The band had been scheduled to travel to Orlando, Florida, and spend a week at Disney, while also marching in the parade at Magic Kingdom. Needless to say, this was actually one of the best experiences of my life. Other than the grueling 24-hour bus ride, there was nothing about that trip that I would change. Being let loose in a Disney park for 12 hours a day, wreaking havoc with some of my best friends was a feeling I’ll never forget.
Senior year, while still fun, was more emotional than I am willing to admit. On top of the regular marching band activities, I now had the chance to participate in senior traditions. From the annual events, like senior prank and senior sleepover (in the school), I was also able to be a part of senior night and wear the marching band senior cord. Also, at the end of band camp, I was able to give a senior speech. Standing in front of the organization that I have been a part of for 4 years while knowing I am leaving soon, was more emotional than I had anticipated. Obviously, I didn’t have a sappy speech, nor did I cry, but the realization that this was my last year of high school was not something I had not prepared for. To top off my senior year, I won queen at band formal, which was an absolute SHOCK. Feeling appreciated in the group that I have spent eight years being a part of was a different type of joy.
Participating in the marching band during my high school career was one of the best decisions I have ever made. It taught me how to lead and to cooperate with others, while simultaneously making me some of my favorite friendships to date. If I ever have children, I will 100% push them to participate in a band like I did. I would want them to have the chance to experience high school through the same lens I did, making memories that will last them a lifetime.