There are countless perks to being in band throughout high school and college, and studies have shown a correlation between involvement in musical groups and test scores. While I would encourage everyone to try band, I know it's not for everyone. So instead of telling you why you or your children should be in band, I'm going to tell you why band was one of the best things I could have done in school.

Band gave me an amazing group of friends, twice. When you join the marching band in high school, you sign your life over to rehearsals three times a week, football games, competitions, and possible parades. With all the hours spent doing band things, you're bound to grow close to the people around you. Many of my closest friends were in the band. In college--when I didn't know a single person going to my school--band camp gave me the opportunity to make friends before classes started. Many of my best friends (including my roommate) are in the band. All the time spent together just allowed for a great atmosphere to make friends. Not to mention the fantastic directors I've had the privilege of working with. They mean a lot to me and have greatly influenced my love for music. What they do is fantastic and I hope they continue to impact people the way they have impacted me.

Band also allowed me to develop leadership skills I didn't acquire in classrooms. I was a representative in the band leadership throughout high school, leading to Drum Major and President my final year. I am currently on the e-board in my college band as a Drum Major. I used to be incredibly shy, and band allowed me to come out of my shell. I can say I'm more confident than I ever was before, and even comfortable speaking in front of crowds. I am by no means a perfect leader, but band gives me the chance to try to be better.

Dedication and responsibility are important in sports, clubs, and other activities, but band impacted the way I think about these greatly. Dedication is important in everything you do, if you hope to improve academically, physically, or mentally; band challenged all three of those. I learned that being on time means being early. I learned that every individual counts: the form won't look right if there's a missing person-and there's no substitute bench. I had to learn my music and my spot on the field for each set; and I had to be able to focus on both at the same time. I was responsible for myself, but I also learned how to be responsible for other people. I became a stronger, more independent individual.

I gained a new appreciation for all kinds of music, jazz and classical in particular. I've been to classical concerts, rock concerts, marching band competitions, and jazz clubs or small restaurants with live bands. This is the part where I'm sure you're expecting me to say I decided to be a music major in school and want to pursue a career. Here's where only part of that is true:I am not a music major as I don't see myself in a big-time music career. However, I know music is going to be a part of my life for as long as I can help it.

I've learned countless other lessons while learning music and being part of the band. As cliche as it is, band is a huge part of who I am today. It has really been an inspiration to me and many others whom I have met. Band has been one of the best things I chose to be a part of in school because it has allowed me to be a part of something so much bigger than myself. Music has been and always will be a part of who I am.