“The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow!”
My childhood didn’t start off so good. My biological parents weren’t ready to be parents. My brother and I were neglected as babies, and me a toddler. We were eventually put up for adoption but my grandmother stood up and took the plate. She took my parents to court and became our legal guardian. She gave us a great childhood, despite our low income. Our family’s income was composed of my grandma’s disability checks and food stamps. But we never let anything get in the way of our happiness. She always wanted us to have a future and hoped that she set a great example for us. She taught me how to be independent and not to rely on anyone.
In the sixth grade, I took my first step into the world of music, and from that first day, I felt a connection to this art form. Music flowed through me effortlessly, becoming not just a passion but an intrinsic part of my being. My journey began with the alto saxophone, and over the years, I’ve honed my skills to become a true master. By the time I reached the tenth grade, I had expanded my musical horizons to include the tenor saxophone, achieving mastery in this new endeavor as well. But my musical palette didn’t stop there. I explored the realms of trombone, trumpet, and mellophone, reaching a proficient level in each. I also started writing arrangements that my band played. To my surprise, a middle school was interested in one of my arrangements and was eager to purchase it. In addition to learning how to play an instrument, band also taught me leadership. My talents earned me the role of section leader. Was charged with ensuring that everyone understood the music. In the 10th grade, I was designated the band secretary. My task was to keep everything organized and maintain administrative order. In the 11th grade, I was promoted to vice president. In this role, I stepped up when the band leadership wasn’t available. In senior year, I was promoted to band president where I directed the band. I wrote arrangements, taught others how to play their parts, and ran over drills and songs in preparation for a performance.
This solidified my passion for music. I love what I do and it’s my talent, which is why I want to pursue a future in music. My dream is to become a college band director. I want to arrange my own songs and drills for this band as well. I’m aware of the steps Imust take to get there. My plan is to major in music education. Covid-19 has really affected my life in preparation for college though. The many drastic changes due to Covid-19 has sent me into a moderate depression. I’m working to overcome this! I won’t let anything stand in my way. My next step after college is to tutor kids who are interested in playing instruments or learning music. Next, I want to become an elementary or middle school music teacher. Then I’ll become a high school band director.
Lastly, I will become a college band director! That is my history and these are my goals and I won’t let nothing stand in the way of achieving them!