testimonials

“I can see that you were very busy during high school. What I want to know is out of all of the activities that kept you so busy, which one really mattered to you?"

This was the final question asked of my daughter at the conclusion of a major scholarship interview. Her answer surprised me, as it had nothing to do with community service, academic courses or athletic competition. Instead, she replied, "Band. Without question, band mattered most." I asked her to explain futher, as did the interviewer. Her answer was that band provided her with a place where she belonged, and a group of friends who accepted her exactly as she was. She did not have to pretend to be anyone other than herself, and she accepted others in the exact same way: if you played an instrument or danced in the color guard, you were in. That's it. Where else can a high schooler find such a level of support or lack of judgment?

As a mother, I watched my daughter grow literally before my eyes physically, emotionally, and mentally as a member of the Myers Park Marching Mustangs. The band provided her with both informal and formal leadership opportunities that were simply unavailable elsewhere in such a large school. She could contribute individually as a musician, and be part of something bigger than herself when she marched in unison to form patterns on the field. She learned time management and responsibility as she met deadlines and juggled schedules. She learned to adapt to those who thought differently and to communicate with eighth graders and seniors alike. She found an adult mentor in Mr. Blount, who sets a wonderful example for all teachers in his passion for his job.

Band matters, and we are immensely grateful.

Carol Auerbach, mother of '10-'11 Drum Major, Emily Auerbach, winner of the Morehead-Cain Scholarship

All-District Honors Band

The following students were selected to the South Central District Honors Band. Audtitions were held Sat, Jan 7, 2012:

Lily Hunter - 2nd Chair 9-10 Trumpet
Kelly Kim - 8th Chair 9-10 Flute
Jack Fullagar - 4th Chair 9-10 Baritone
Nathanial Holderman - 1st Alt 9-10 Oboe
Madison Farr - 10th Chair 11-12 Flute
Sri Sridharan - 20th Chair 11-12 Clarinet
Evie Roberts - 1st Alternate 11-12 Trumpet

Congrats to them and thanks to all who audtitioned!