When I joined the school band in sixth grade, I didn’t realize how much that one decision would change my educational experience.
I have made some incredible friends and wonderful memories.
Those happy memories and great friends will last me a lifetime.
Whether trying not to melt during summer band camp or getting hyped up on the bus on the way to a football game, those fun times are what I think about when school gets tough.
There are many merits to high school band.
According to the Northwest School of Music, participating in the school band can bring students together who share the same interest in music, nurture creativity and self-expression and help cognitive development.
“The fact that a student is interested in the arts hints at the creative abilities that may be innate in them,” the school website says. “On top of that, studying music and playing an instrument in the band can further spur on their creative juices and provide more creative outlets.”
All students should take band at least once in their high school careers.
Band students learn many skills beyond how to play an instrument. You learn how to work as a team, how to be a leader and how to perform under pressure.
Teamwork and leadership are irreplaceable skills that will apply to every aspect of your life. These are skills you learn in band.
I chose to learn the saxophone when I joined the beginner band. After years of learning, I’m now at a spot where I am confident in my abilities, though I will continue working to improve.
Learning how to play a musical instrument, working as a part of a team, being a respected leader and making long lasting friendships are all important merits of band that foster growth and development.
Being in band has taught me many things that have made me a better person, and I know it can do that for you too.
If you are reading this and you are out of school and beyond able to join the school band, have no fear.
It is never too late to learn an instrument, join a team with your neighbors or volunteer for a leadership position that does good work in your community.
These things are life.
I am learning about life in the high school band.
Grace Lewter is finishing her freshman year at Tioga High School. She is active in the Bulldog Band, One Act Play and is a member of the student council.