Name: Stefan

Grade: 8th

Level: Symphonic Band/Jazz Band

Instrument: Baritone Saxaphone/Electric Bass

 

How long have you been playing?

3-4 yrs

 

What sparked your interest in playing this instrument?

I saw my sister doing band in elementary and it looked fun. Plus, I had seen instruments being played online like the trumpet and alto saxophone, and they also sounded really cool.

 

What is your favorite musical piece that you've played?

The Chicken or Spain

 

What type of music do you most like to play and why?

I like to play jazz simply because of how every single instrument has an important role and you can’t really rely on others. In symphonic band, it is mainly boring background for me, and I quickly lose interest, and there are a ton more people, which obviously means you can play quieter and rely on people that are better than you (even though you should never ever do that). In jazz, even if I’m playing backgrounds, they add a lot more groove to the whole piece and make it sound a whole lot better, and there’s like at max 5 people per section.

 

What is giving/gave you the most trouble while learning, and what advice would you give to others having similar difficulties?

Definitely learning how to articulate fast on the Bari sax. Considering I came from bass, it was a whole different class of an instrument. I’d suggest anyone who can’t articulate fast to just keep on practicing and gradually increase speeds every now and then. Eventually you will have done it long enough where you can articulate fast.

 

Any words of wisdom or encouragement for your peers?

Don’t be afraid to try something new out. I never regretted trying out Bari sax for the first time, and it has made my elective so much more fun.

 

Name: Erika

Grade: 8th

Level: Symphonic Band/Jazz Band

Instrument: Flute

 

How long have you been playing?

3-4 yrs

 

What sparked your interest in playing this instrument?

My mom suggested it after quitting piano, and I decided to give it a try. When I did, it was really enjoyable to play for me, and now I’ve been playing for 4 years with great accomplishments.

 

What is your favorite musical piece that you've played?

Concerto in G Major Op. 29 by Carl Stamitz, edited by Michael Rotti

 

What type of music do you most like to play and why?

I enjoy classical music; it allows me to use advanced techniques to sound better, and it sounds very pretty.

 

What is giving/gave you the most trouble while learning, and what advice would you give to others having similar difficulties?

Specific techniques such as Vibrato and Double Tonguing. My advice would be to stay calm, as getting angry and upset makes it worse. Take some deep breaths and keep trying while practicing, and over time you’ll get it.

 

Any words of wisdom or encouragement for your peers?

Although it can be frustrating sometimes like when your sound doesn’t come out well, it’s fine. Everyone is an amazing musician and can be one as long as you have the passion. Don’t give up and try your best, and no matter the outcome, it's not over.