Use this blog to reflect on the entire year from Marching Band camp to our May concert.
What are some highlights?
Do you have a favorite moment?
What advice would you give to someone entering high school band?
Do you have any suggestions that would improve the Varsity Band experience?
Do you have any last shout-outs for your Varsity Band colleagues?
What are some highlights?
Do you have a favorite moment?
What advice would you give to someone entering high school band?
Do you have any suggestions that would improve the Varsity Band experience?
Do you have any last shout-outs for your Varsity Band colleagues?
Guidelines:
Post your response by Wednesday, 5/28.
Be respectful in your comments and interactions with others.
The main highlight was how we grew together and became more comfortable as an ensemble. My favorite moment of the year was our review rehearsal before Branson in the rain. My advice to incoming bandies is to actually practice, especially scales. In the long run it has helped me tremendously. A suggestion to improve the Varsity Band experience would be more smembles. I would like to give shout-outs to the second Hour Saxes, for being pretty cool.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your highlight I definitely feel like we have grown together as a band also more smembles would be nice because those really helped with some of the more technical spots in our pieces. I cannot wait for next year!
Deletetruuuu about the saxes!
DeleteI definitely agree that we've grown a lot and like the idea of more smembles. I think it helped us grow as musicians, but also as a band, because we got to know each other better.
DeleteFor sure my highlight from band this year was the trip to Branson! That was so much fun and I definitely got closer to the Bandies and we all bonded on this epic adventure. My favorite Concert this year was the Carnival concert. It was really fun to put on and it went really well! Also I am so excited to see how much we've grown this year both musically and in friendships. To any sophomores next year my advice would be get involved in band. It's no fun unless you actually participate and make new friends. When you get involved band is so so much fun and a great group of people. I can't wait for next year and hopefully we will go back to the Xcel for a 3-peat! Yay band and thank you everyone for a great year! You all made junior year a little more bearable :)
ReplyDeleteBranson was very enjoyable, those memories will last a lifetime. Thanks for being a superb stand partner. I enjoyed growing musically alongside you all year and last year as well.
DeleteBrAnson!!! I was so sad that we couldn't be in the same class this year but I mean we spent so much time together in BrAnson and at band camp and so glad I could get closer to you this year!!!
DeleteBranson was definitely my favorite part of the year as well! I am so glad we were in the same class and we became better friends. I agree highschool has been wayyyy more fun, because of band! Good job Kim this year, I love you!
DeleteThe highlight of my year in band was the whole band learning how to blend, it really made a huge difference in our concerts, we listened to each other and tried our hardest to fit in with one another. My favorite moment was winning the awards in Missouri for mar night band, none of us expected it and we were all so prideful in our performance, it was amazing. The advice I would give to an incoming high school bandie is to take in every moment, you don't realize what a great time you are having and it goes by so quickly. My suggestion to improve varsity band would be to have more sectional time because there were many hard sections of songs that the trumpets would have liked to work on as a small group. I'd like to shout Kim because she worked really hard this year and I can see how much she improved (eagles 5ever).
ReplyDeleteThanks for the shoutout Gaby :) thanks for putting up with my craziness all year and keeping me focused. Eagles till the day we die hahaha!
DeleteI think we've come a long way from where we were at the beginning of a year as individuals and as an ensemble. Playing Hindsley's Nutcracker Suite was one of my favorite pieces. Branson in general was enjoyable. My overall advice would be to work on general technical things, like scales. And of course practicing is always important. I think as a band we could have worked on sight-reading more, as we didn't sight-read very often, with the exception of when we were trying to find new pieces.
ReplyDeleteThroughout the whole band year, my highlight was Branson and making a whole lot of great new friends. In particular, a moment I will remember for the rest of my life is when we were playing at the fountains on the river in Branson. The beautiful day in addition to the fun tunes we jammed to bring back a lot of nostalgia. My advice to someone who is entering high school band is to take advantage of all the great opportunities the band program has to offer!
ReplyDeleteFor improvement on next years Varsity Band, I would suggest more sight reading mondays/other days. Those are fun challenges. I would like to give a shoutout to the trumpet section for sticking together and pouring our hearts into the music! Also Hunter Wheeler on the beautiful solo and we will miss him next year!
I agree Luke! The trumpets did try our hardest everyday to improve as a whole. I also agree that we should do more sight reading because that would help us a lot with new music, to make us feel more confident.
DeleteThis past year has been so fun, all due the committed and sometimes crazy bandies I've been lucky enough to surround myself with! Branson was by far the highlight of this year. We performed really well, and let loose - all 300 of us! Going on this trip made us all so close, and I think it made an impact on the way we play as an ensemble. I'd advise every incoming bandie to get to know your fellow musicians as much as possible, getting involved with such a great group of people has been one of my best decisions in high school.
ReplyDeleteShoutout to the sophomore varsity bandie members - props to you guys for being so talented and ready to be part of the fam.
Also, ninja turtles. thx 4 everything. you make my world go round <3
I thought one of my highlights this year during varsity band was not only how much I grew personally, but the rest of the band. I thought this was especially noticeable in technique and our overall musicianship. From the beginning of the year with pieces like Circus Bee and Salvation to the last concert with Don Ricardo, our attention to detail seemed to be more noticeable. I think one of my favorite band memories from this year was the Carnival Concert. I thought that this could be a great opportunity for the varsity to present their talents. I was also so happy to be in the first annual Carnival Concert and I hope it grows to its full potential. I think that if anyone were to come into varsity band next year that they make sure to take advantage of the opportunity over the summer to improve. This would benefit you in so many ways. I also wanted to give a shout out to Alexander Boisvert and his great reading ability during the concerts... "I'M ALEX BOISVERT!"
ReplyDeleteThe high lights of this year would have to be Branson, because it was the first band trip that I have ever been on and it was an awesome experience to be with everyone who loves band and being with friends for an extended weekend. My favorite moment throughout the year was participating in the Carnival Concert because it brought joy to some little children and I had fun making a "mini-pops" concert for the lower bands. Advise I would give to incoming high school band kids is to stick with the program because the friends you make in band are probably the best friends that you will have throughout the high school years. I really don't have to add to make the Varsity Band experience because it was wonderful!!! Shout out to the foopers out there for being wonderful friends. Whoop whoop.
ReplyDeleteI agree that band offers many experiences and shouldn't be taken for granted. Also BrANson was so much fun and also one of my highlights!
DeleteI agree with what you said about Branson and the Carnival Concert. Those were also my highlights!
DeleteI think the highlights from the year are the Branson trip, the homecoming game, the concerts and our overall musical growth and enthusiasm! My favorite moment was probably when we won all the awards at the marching band competition in Missouri. In terms of advice to incoming bandies, I would say to always be prepared and stay positive. Make sure you practice and bring everything you could possibly need (like Chapstick!) and it will greatly minimize stress. There are also times when you can't be prepared, like when it rains or the lights go out… Stay positive. I know from experience that being negative got me nowhere and put me in a bad mood. The only suggestion I have for the experience would be to have more sectionals! Shout out to the whole band for having an awesome year and final concert, but also to the horn section because they're all so fabulous.
ReplyDeleteThe highlight of the year, for me, was our continuous growth in the areas of intonation, interpretation, and technique. I was impressed with the fact that every day we improved our technique and intonation, which is not an easy thing to do. Also, I was really impressed with the way we told the stories of our pieces like they were meant to be told (Am Elegy, Japanese, Don Ricardo).
ReplyDeleteI thought one of the most fun parts of the year was the Carnival Concert as it was a showpiece for the Varsity Band and gave us some exposure. I would like to shout out Andrew Cochrane and his tremendous speaking part. He really showed us who is boss and explained the African Hymnsong to its full potential! Bravo!
Your solo sounded so great as always! Great job!
DeleteSome highlights for me, were some of the more musical moments throughout the year. Like with American Elegy or Salvation is created. My favorite moment might be when we ended our last concert of the year and you could tell the audience was legitimately impressed and involved in the concert. Some advice I would give someone entering high school band would be to have fun with people. Not just with your section but with other sections. Like smemble options with other instruments. One suggestion would maybe be to do more student based choice for the songs, like with Don Ricardo.
ReplyDeleteDon Ricardo was incredibly fun for the low brass, so I definitely agree with that suggestion. Great job in Moanin' and I hope we're in the same band again next year!
DeleteI kind of forgot about Salvation is Created! I really liked that one too!! Nice job at the concert Jackson!
DeleteMy favorite highlights from the year are Branson, obviously, and the fiery chords from the battle scene in Gettysburg. My favorite moment was either hearing the cheers after winning awards at Missouri State or playing the last soft note of American Elegy at our concert. I would advise future bandies to always sunglasses to marching band camp. A suggestion for Varsity Band is more smembles because they're really fun to coordinate and practice. Shout out to all the sophs in varsity <3, and especially Alayna and Hunter for the beautiful solos; Hunter, we'll miss you!
ReplyDeleteI love your word choice: "fiery chords" and I love how specific you are with your comments! I feel like those moments are some of everyone's favorites but no one else knew how to put them into words. And I definitely second your advice about wearing sunglasses! 8)
DeleteSome highlights are of course band camp, the homecoming game, and pep band, but the biggest highlight of the year was easily the trip to Branson. My favorite moments were in Branson, at Silver Dollar City and our show by that fiery fountain. Getting together with the band family and bonding in Branson was my favorite part of this entire school year as a whole. To all people entering high school band, I say: stay in band, and get involved. You'll make some really good lifelong friends in this program. I think it would be nice if we could have more sectionals, because there isn't much time (if any) in class where we can just run through our parts with our section and help each other out with some challenging parts.
ReplyDeleteShout-out to all the [trom]boners for being so great, we killed it guys
CRAZ! Dude you rock! So happy that we could become better friend in Branson and throughout the year! I totally agree with your advise for the younger kids because my bestest friends are in band along side of me.
DeleteMore sectionals are always helpful. A big thanks to you and the 3rd hour tbones for being 100% supportive and kind to me. I don't think I ever heard a single mean word said in my direction! No but actually, love you guys.
DeleteMy favorite moments from this year are marching band camp, drumline camp, and the hockey state pep bands, and of course all of our concerts. I would give incoming sophomores the advice to really appreciate all of marching band and pep bands because I didn't my sophomore year and I regret it. I loved Marching band camp this year and went to nearly all the pep bands and I loved every minute of it.
ReplyDeleteSome highlights of this year for me include the Carnival Concert, all the pepbands, playing my solo in Fick for solo/ens fest, and just generally working to improve my playing ability. My favorite memory of the year was definitely Branson. It was such a great trip and I loved spending time with my band friends and meeting new bandies! I can't really think of suggestions for varsity band as a whole but I would suggest to incoming bandies to work hard at their instrument and take private lessons because they help so much! I would also advise doing a solo or ensemble for the contest because it gives you a chance to show your strengths in a different setting and it gives you something fun to work for on your instrument. My final shout-outs go to Alayna for being perfect and to all the foopers for being amazing in the band room and everywhere else.
ReplyDeleteYou sound so great RachAel! I'm so glad we became friends during band! Its fun learning oboe with you!
DeleteFor me, the largest band highlights of the year were Branson, the Carnival Concert, and playing pep band at the hockey state championship match. I had a wonderful time building new friendships and strengthening old ones. I grew greatly as a musician due to the challenging musical selections. For new Varsity Band students, I would suggest that they try to get the most out of the experience. Varsity band may not be as awesome and prestigious as Concert band, but that doesn't mean one can't grow and develop technique and skill, and have a great time doing that. To improve Varsity band, I would suggest extending the Carnival Concert to multiple performances (both Friday and Saturday instead of just Saturday) and expanding the variety of this show.
ReplyDeleteShoutout to Canada.
It's truly an honor to know you Mr.Canada. There was never a moment when you were playing when I didn't feel the pride and honor of a Canadian penetrating my back through both the soothing and bold tunes of your trumpet.└|°ε°|┐
DeleteFor me, some highlights of this year were drumline camp, band camp, and the section final games for boys' hockey. I love marching band and can't wait for another great season! And the sectional final games were so much fun. I will never forget that championship game.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite moments from this year was the ending of Fantasy on a Japanese Folksong. I was fortunate to have such a featured part in this piece. I played the orchestra bells, which represented the Japanese girl's tears. It was a cool experience to embody the feeling of sorrow on an instrument. Playing that last note was very rewarding and I was lucky to have such an important role in the song.
The one piece of advice I have for any incoming bandies is PRACTICE! I know that everyone will tell you that, but really, band is so much more enjoyable when you have all of your parts down. It is hard to have fun when you can't play your part completely proficiently. Practice hard and you will have a blast.
One suggestion I have to improve the Varsity Band experience is to spend more time sight-reading. My biggest struggle in band has always been sight-reading, so a little more in-class practice with that would have helped me a lot.
Shout out to Mr. Richter and Owen Luterbach for the great choice of repertoire for this last concert! The pieces made it a truly enjoyable concert and one that I will remember forever. Also shout out to Nate Richman for his part in Folk Dances. And to all my foopers: I luv you.
Good job on Fantasy on a Japanese Folk Song Zoe! I also agree that practicing is an essential part for any incoming bandie!
DeleteBeing a junior at band camp was new and exciting this year, and it was heartwarming to see all of the new sophomores so excited for band, as well as their excitement in Branson. The trip itself was a major highlight and bonding experience that I think strengthened the community between all of us bandies and was a great opportunity for meeting new people and having tons of fun, while also being able to perform. One piece that I'll always remember from this year was American Elegy, where I think our band really came together and showed a lot of improvement in displaying musicality in our playing as well as finding understanding in the messages and emotions of a song. My advise to incoming kids would be to try to get to know as many people in band as they can and come to as many pep bands that they can, and not to be afraid of the juniors and seniors at band camp.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with absolutely everything that you said. Being a junior at band camp was really awesome, and I also hope that the underclassmen feel comfortable at band camp this summer! I am so pumped! Also, nice job announcing at the concert! :-)
DeleteAmerican Elegy was dabes-- loved that song!!! Not being afraid of upperclassman is so key-- but I think the atmosphere helps with that greatly. I was surprised coming to band camp when everyone was so friendly and open ~(⁰▿⁰)~
DeleteI constantly think about memories from Branson! That was definitely a highlight being independent and exploring the city! The carnival was such a creative and fun idea! I could tell people had fun with it! Being part of the band has been so impactful to my high school experience. My advice for incoming bandies would be to have fun with band. Marching band is only as fun as you make it. I also suggest writing everything in on your music because I learned that is very helpful throughout this year. Shout-out to Alayna for being the best sophomore and beautiful flutist! Your solo rocked and I'm so glad you are part of our band! :)
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree Al! The carnival concert was awesome and kind of refreshing in a way because it was such a different angle to take on a band concert. And I second your shout-out to Alayna! Her solo was BEAUTIFUL. Our band concert without Alayna's solo would be like a bird without wings.
Deleteawww thanks! :) I agree with your advice to incoming bandies. The best thing to do is have fun, and everything else with just get better from there.
DeleteI have had a blast this year in Varsity band with all of you! My favorite pieces this year were American Elegy and Don Ricardo. I really enjoyed American Elegy because it was very lyrical and it really tested the band's ability to show and add feeling to the piece. It helped that there was such an emotional story attached to the piece. I really enjoyed Don Ricardo because it had a fun melody that the French horns got to play a couple times (which was especially awesome from 150-end). That piece made me want to dance and I think that the audience also really enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteBranson was a huge highlight this year for me. I really enjoyed marching band and it was fun to have a whole weekend dedicated to becoming closer as a band. Although I was a little apprehensive at first about the destination, I quickly realized that the band can have a blast together no matter where we travel to. Branson was actually a really cool city, and I especially enjoyed the Haygoods, zip lining, and the ranch on the last night.
I think that Varsity band has grown a lot this year, especially in our musicality and our technical abilities.
As for advice for incoming Varsity band members, I would say: try to be involved in band as much as possible and make it work with your schedule no matter what because it is worth it and you won't regret it. Also, try to learn your individual parts quickly so you can learn others' parts in band class.
I had a blast this year in band and I am pumped for next year! Thanks for an amazing experience everybody! :-)
I definitely agree with you on your favorite pieces, I loved those songs and I felt it helped convey our abilities the most. It is so true that no matter where we go as a band we will have fun, and this trip was unforgettable! great job this year!!!!
DeleteTotally relate to those feelings about Don Ricardo. I wish I could dance while playing horn, because I totally would have every timeヽ( ★ω★)ノ
DeleteThis year in band has been absolutely amazing and there are so many great moments, but my favorite was the entire Branson trip. I loved it when we unexpectedly won all those awards at the football game after the parade. I loved cheering for us and how loud we were, I think we even scared some people. The pride everyone has for the band program and our school is phenomenal. I think anyone entering the band program shouldn't be afraid to be themselves, because the bandies are some of the most caring and accepting people I have ever met. I think it would be nice to have more sectional time, because it would give us a chance to improve our skills and would make our normal rehearsals more beneficial because we won't be spending time chasing notes and will be able to focus on our musicality. Thanks for the unforgettable year and we definitely showed all we were capable of. I can't wait until next year, love you all!
ReplyDeleteI agree wth what you said about our school pride and I think that is especially shown through the band program!!
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ReplyDeleteThis has been a really awesome year!! With Branson, the Carnival Concert and fun music, it has been really memorable! My favorite songs were definitely Nutcracker, American Elegy, and Godspeed. Nutcracker was such a cool song to play because it really tested our ability to push ourselves, technically and musically. I know everyone says American Elegy, but it was truly a stunning piece with the level of musicality it pushed us too. Lastly, I loved Godspeed because it actually sounded like it came right out of a movie!
ReplyDeleteMy highlights of the year were, of course, Branson and the Carnival Concert! When I first heard that we were going to Branson, I was a little concerned about what we would do there. However that trip ended up being one of the highlight of my entire year, not just the band year. I met so many new people and had so many awesome experiences, like riding a mechanical bull and going on a showboat! The carnival concert was really fun because it gave us a chance to be creative with the music and to interact with the community.
My advice for incoming bandies is that you get out of band what you put into it. If you don't try, you won't have as much fun!! Overall, it was a fantastic year and I want to thank you all for making it so great!!
Band has been a challenging but very fruitful experience and I can't wait to relive the experience next year. Band has allowed me to make connections with dozens of people varying in talents and background that I am honored to have met. I don't believe any other program in Edina can match the dedication, fun, and bonds formed in the EHS band. While the prospect of band camp was terrifying, I was able to evolve as a person so much so that if me from two years ago were to have a conversation with the me now I would be nearly unrecognizable, and I can attribute these changes to the kind, compassionate and responsible people that make the leaders of the Edina band program. This year has been an unforgettable experience starting from day one, band camp being the main highlight, and I have every one of the people above and others in the band to thank for it. Incoming band students should look past the hard work(late night pep bands, marching band camp) and realize they're going to be getting even more than what they've put in.
ReplyDelete~~~~~xX_SHOUT_SWAG_Y0L0_OUTSXx~~~~~~~
\o/ mai dedicated waifu Wes <3, Lord Davis, Jack Campbell(mang ur just always so bright nd happe na' mean?), Chloe Gratzek (soph horn swage <3<3<3), Mikaela Burns (tanks for puttin up wit my weirdness nd bein dabes), Ki(e)rsten(gud times erryday in band m8 can always make me laugh), Taylor Halva (we dunt talk much but u a fellow mello m8 and dats wut counts 8)), Julie Johnson(yu just always got a sincere smile in yo faec yu kno?), Juliana Severson (あなたわとてもすぶらしいです！！！), Jack Stanek (m8 u never stop impress me first wit trumpet den wit piano and now a 24 minut music such wow), Joe of High Caliber (liked ur speech m8 nd u made our smemble not awkward nd super fun), Alayna Bowlin (Goosebumps: Source Confirmed. gud playing m8 is an understatment lik u make me wow), Lindsey Ruehl (:mickeymousevoice: "HEY LINDSEY" ur 3funny5me u kno nd we sharid sum gud tims in honor band lol cant wait fur mor+++), Ariana Song(gurl sorry i didnt com 2 bring frend nite i relly wanted to but ur much encourage and driving force for me 2 improve as a purformer), Erin Balestri (the moments we shared together were always funnee, and ur much talent trumpet stay gud m8), Hunter Wheeler (RIP in peese mai sweet prinse u will be mist m8)
Band this year has held so many memories and been so much fun. My favorite memory was definitely Branson and all the stuff we did there including winning s many awards at the football game. However the pep bands and playing at the state hockey tournament were also very exciting and fun. My advice for someone entering high school band would just be to enjoy it and make the most of it. I think a lot of people come into high school thinking band is lame but the soon realize that isn't the case. All of my friends that I've made in high school are bandies so I would recommend that future bandies come in with an open mind and get involved. I think it would be nice to have more sectional time because there are many hard passages that need to be worked on as a group in our music and we didn't get many opportunities to do that.
ReplyDeleteShout out to my flute friends- you guys are awesome :)
Some highlights of this year for me include marching in the Homecoming game and Branson, my solo in Elegy, and my participation in the Solo/Ensemble contest. It was great to see how my work, and more so everyone else’s, had come together into fantastic performances wherever we were. As for advice for someone entering Varsity Band, I would say this: One, practice and practice seriously, and even if you’re solid on your band music, work on other things and improve your technique; and two, try to push your limits every day. Get the hardest range/technical elements out of the way early so you won’t have to worry about them in the concert. If I were to make any changes to the Varsity Band program, I would probably allocate more time for preparing for the last concert, since a lot of the bandies can’t practice or come to class as much because of AP testing. Otherwise, I think Varsity Band has done a good job of helping students improve as musicians. Finally, I’d like to give a shout-out to Kim, Gabby, Luke, and Charlie, for being fantastic sectionmates, for supporting me and each other, for making every class hilarious, and for flying like the eagles you are.
ReplyDeleteBand has been so grand this year! Although filled with great memories throughout the year, my highlight is Branson Trip! I remember non-stop laughing the entire trip. Going into the trip I didn't know the schedule so everyday was a surprise. Everyday going to class surrounded by bandies has been a highlight. People don't lie about the band family. Advice to someone entering high school band? Dive in head first. I have been told it is important to become involved in extracurriculars, but the real importance should be focused on relationships you built through those extracurriculars. I have loved joking around with everyone this year. You will find no one like the bandies anywhere else in the high school.
ReplyDeleteFor next year, I think it would be interesting if the band students had input in the pieces chosen for the concerts. For example, Mr. Ritcher could present 3 options on a march and the class could vote through an online google survey.
And I'll leave this year with an quote (replacing Woody with 'the band family'):
"Now the band family, the band family's been my pal for as long as I can remember. The band family's brave, like a cowboy should be. And kind, and smart. But the thing that makes the band family special, is they'll never give up on you... ever. They'll be there for you, no matter what" (Andy from Toy Story 3)
I have had so much fun in band this year. There are countless highlights but a few are: Branson, helping out with pops, and meeting new people. My favorite part of this year was for sure Branson. The group of bandies that went were so fun, and it made me realize how lucky I am to be apart of it. We had so much fun with all the activities we did, and I have so many great memories.
ReplyDeleteAdvice for students coming to the high school would be: stay in band, at your first band camp try to meet as many people as possible, and work to balance all the activities you are involved in.
I can't think of anything to improve varsity band!
Thanks for an awesome year of band, can't wait for next year!
My favorite part of the band year was definitely the Branson trip. It was so much fun hanging out with everyone the entire time. If I had to give advice to someone entering band, I would say just don't be afraid to talk to people. Everyone in band is always so nice so there's nothing to be afraid of. If I had any suggestions to improve Varsity Band, the only thing I would say is that the in class time for the creative project should be given in one large chuck rather than multiple short sessions of work time. Being in Varsity Band this year has been a lot of fun!
ReplyDeleteSome of the highlights from this year include all of the football games, the activities and awards from Branson, the pep bands, and the Carnival Concert. I especially loved getting to know everyone in Varsity band over the year. I had so much fun with my fellow bandies and I hope we can have more fun next year. For incoming students in high school band I would say that practice is very important. Band is defiantly fun but paying attention in class and put time in outside of class is extremely important. I would also suggest getting to know your classmates from different schools/grades so that you can have an even better experience! For next year varsity band I think there should be more sight reading time as it was an important part of the audition and would increase the quality of our playing. I would like to give a shout out to all the sophomores! Love you guys and thanks Alexander!
ReplyDeletePracticing is sooo important-- I totally agree! It can be boring and annoying but once you start on a regular schedule, it gets more fun.
DeleteIt was fun to finally be a part of the high school band family, as I had watched my sister go through it before me. My favorite parts of the year were marching band camp in the summer, and the football games. I loved meeting a bunch of new people.
ReplyDeleteI also loved being in varsity band because everyone is so motivated to work hard and really dig into the music. I can’t wait for concert band :D We’re so lucky to have a music program like this in our high school!!
To incoming high school bandies, I would say to really jump on any opportunities that you are interested in; sign up sheets don’t fill up themselves! If you think band is boring, it will continue to be boring all throughout high school unless you approach it with a different mindset.
Shout out to Owen for picking Don Ricardo—that was an awesome piece—and Mr Richter for helping us in improving our musicianship as a band!
The biggest highlight of the year has to be the Branson tour. When first hearing that I would be going to a city I had never heard of, I was a bit nervous about how fun the trip would be. But to my surprise, it was one of the most fun experiences I have ever had, thanks to the people on the trip. My favorite moment of the year was playing Nutcracker Suite in the winter concert. It felt amazing to be able to play such a renowned piece with the musicianship we had. If I were to give advice to incoming bandies, I would say to play out as much as you can. By playing out more, your sound will be heard much more easily and will allow you to know your trouble spots (And also bring tons of sunscreen to marching band camp!). I would like to give a shout out to Mark Hoffman for putting the entire band on his back year. He is and always will be a legend.
ReplyDelete-Drew Sanda
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ReplyDeleteBest parts of the year were definitely spending time with everyone in Branson. That was just a great experience as a whole and I'll definitely remember it for a long time. Oh, and finishing first in basically every area wasn't too bad either. :) My other favorite part of the year was the carnival concert. It was just a super fun experience and allowed for creativity and growth in not only individual musicianship, but as a band as a whole.
ReplyDeleteI have so many memories that could qualify as a favorite but if I had to choose one it would probably be having student teachers that were fun and bold. Usually when student teachers come in they tend to be more reserved and quiet but ours were the complete opposite. They were super fun, musically aware, and we were just lucky to have them for that short amount of time. I'm really grateful that we all had this opportunity and I hope we get a similar opportunity in the future.
Some advice I have to anyone entering high school band is that you should ALWAYS mark your music. I never used to mark my music until one time I was supposed to cross out a repeat but I didn't so I played a part while everyone else was quiet (9th grade stage band) and from them on I realized that I should probably mark my music. Also the markings we get told to write down all have a purpose and all will enhance the music quality as a whole.
One suggestion that I have is keep the carnival concert and bring in more student teachers!
S/O to the whole band for making this a year filled with hilarious moments, improved musicianship and basically everything else, and for making the band experience one that others wish they were a part of.
"My twitter isn't tweeting!"
DeleteSome of my favorite moments from this year are marching band camp, football games, and the Branson Trip. Throughout all of these experiences I loved meeting new people and spending time with friends. My favorite memory however, was when we learned we won the Missouri State Marching Band Competition. I thought it was cool how great it felt to win the competition when we had zero expectations and were expecting to not place for any rewards. I really enjoyed the excitement winning a competition brought and a being able to share the experience with my best friends. To incoming bandies, be involved. All of the extra activities like honor bands and small ensembles are what makes the band program so fun! I think the Varsity Band experience is awesome just the way it is and doesn’t need to be changed. Varsity Band this year has been a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite moment of this last concert is not necessarily how well we played, but how much we have improved our musicianship as an ensemble from the beginning of the year. Our dynamics, balance, technique, and intonation have dramatically grown which is shown in the pieces that we have been able to preform at such a high level. This has been a wonderful year for me and I am sure many others have had a great time as well.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite parts of this year were both the times spent on the Branson tour and the winter pep bands, specifically the hockey games that we played at. Other highlights were playing in concerts and playing the state championship games. Some advice I would give to incoming bandies is to cherish the pep bands, because they're fun. I think that varsity band is pretty good as is. However, I would suggest that there be either part assignments for percussion from the conductor, or just increased communication between the two bands over percussion assignments to prevent repeats of this most recent part debacle. We've grown and developed so much over this past year and I'm excited to see where this takes us next year. Especially Wes.
ReplyDeleteMy main highlight would be the trip to Branson. I really didn't expect to have as much fun as I did. May favorite moment would be winning all of those awards we didn't think we would get. My advice for someone entering high school band would to make sure to practice and not forget to do the blogs... My suggestion to improve Varsity band would to have more sectional based projects. You have more time working together and improving overall as a section.
ReplyDeleteClarinets: ALWNTF