You are told from the time you are young to follow where your passion takes you. While going through childhood, you're exposed to several activists and hobbies you may or may not like. Some of us chose sports, some of us chose the arts, some of us chose both or neither. For me, my love for music outweighed any club or sport before then.
It started in 5th grade, when we all lined up and tried out these new instruments. Unaware that choosing your instrument wasn't an option - it truly chose you. I believe once you reach the right instrument, you are able to play better than before. My instrument choice changed three times over two years until I finally settled on flute, and it took off from there. The first few years are filled with concerts that your parents grit their teeth through. You struggle and feel like your director is being too strict with you, while their only wish is for you to become a more skilled musician. Being in Band was "cool" when everyone was just starting. Then it became into a stereotype decades old.
"Band Geek"
It was one of the first negative nicknames I had received in high school as a freshman. Everybody knows you from being in band, and it wasn't always impressive to teachers. They tended to favorite the star of the basketball team over the section leader of a group of musicians.
I never understood why playing an instrument, which leads to several wonderful opportunities, was so frowned upon. How was doing something with 50 of my closest friends that bad? We performed at football games, the occasional basketball game, and all parades going through our town. Seeing the number of people that turned out and still watched us, I believed it made me more likable. I was wrong. This wasn't just inside school either, it grew into family as well. Telling your family you want to study music in college isn't taken lightly. It isn't as financially appealing as some jobs. So you are persuaded into going to study something you aren't passionate about, only to appease your closest supporters.
My fondest memories are those with my band friends, and ones met along the way who may not have stayed. In high school, you spend a minimum of 10 hours a week together during marching season. This included normal class rehearsals and one after school per week. If it was the week of a football game, the hours added on. And if it was the week of a game or competition, double the stress. In college, our rehearsals were far far less, and the stress was more heavy. The friends you gain in collegiate marching season are different, yet so wildly rewarding.
Nobody can understand the feeling of perfectly hitting a hold during your ballad, seeing your formations are spot-on in a video, watching choreography run better than expected, or the satisfying feeling you got when turf finally fell out of your shoe. I was fortunate enough to spend eight years with my band, and there wasn't enough time. I wish I could relieve my seasons over again. I wish there was time to smile more over band instead of worry. The stereotype of being a "geek" or "nerd" held me back from fully immersing myself into the experience.
If there is anything I wish to say to my high school band, it would be to cherish every moment. Whether it be big or small, time-consuming or a quick task, alone or together, it matters. Listen to what others say in critiques. Always think of the person next to you before yourself - it is a team effort. Also, remember to be patient with your Band Director/Teacher(s), Drum Major(s), and Section Leader(s) - they hold themselves to a higher standard you all should follow.
Being so passionate about music is something I am proud of, not ashamed. You can call me any names you wish, but it will never dampen my spirit. I have loved my journey so far, and will forever have a deep rooted place in my heart etched with "Band Geek".
Eyes with Pride.
