By Norah Jewett ’25
Band: it’s that high school clique. It may be regarded as odd by outside viewers, but those immersed in it are able to refer to it as a family. A weird, slightly dysfunctional family that just sort of works. I should know, I’m rather proud to be considered a band kid myself.
But what’s the appeal? What’s kept these kids playing well into high school? A survey I pinned up in the band room gave a variety of responses.
Over half of the students responding to the survey picked up their given instrument in 4th grade, the age most high schoolers were able to start band. Others started throughout middle school, and a small percentage just recently started playing during their high school career.
All but two students respond that they are in band for the musical component that obviously comes with playing an instrument. Other various responses also included: all of one’s friends are in band, the need of a hobby, and of course, the college resumé. It appears that many first start playing with the idea of wielding a cool, shiny object that makes different interesting sounds. Of course, the majority of kids realize it’s not for them and then drop the instrument. But the ones who stick with it into high school end up forming a tight-knit group of people with similar interests. I’ve personally observed that being a “band kid” and playing an instrument almost becomes a good portion of your personality, and many have admitted that fact. Moreover, many responding students assured that they would continue with music after high school. Kids have outright stated that while they might not major in music in college, they can’t imagine a world where they have to give up their instrument and passion for playing. Only one person gave a definite no, while several others were on the fence.
A student claimed that while band is something they still enjoy, they also focus on other aspects band provided, such as something for the college resumé. They stated, “I started out simply wanting to enjoy playing my instrument but getting into high school my mind has shifted to making my resume look better, though I still have a passion.”
Other students remarked on the joys of band: the ability to connect with upperclassmen, share common interests, and overall be part of an extremely welcoming community. One student shares, “I believe that there is a significant amount of stigma and stereotype when it comes to band and ‘band kids.’ I don’t do band just to do band. I enjoy every aspect of it. I’ve made so many friends from being a part of the music department. Being part of such a welcoming community has allowed me to connect with so many other musicians and also get opportunities to expand my music career outside of the school building. The people in band are some of the kindest and most caring people in the whole school. Lastly, I obviously just love making music. It’s a great way to start my morning every day, I’ve never regretted any moment of it.”
Another proudly remarks, “The music department is the most welcoming place in the school. You get to play music with your friends every day, I don’t think there’s a single reason not to do band. Anyone is welcome regardless of their musical experience.”
Some even share that while certain aspects that come with being in the band are less than ideal, they declare that it is still something they don’t regret. One student explained, “I had wanted to play saxophone when I was younger so once I could do it, I just did and somehow stuck through it all up to now even though I hate marching band. I wouldn’t have done it if a couple of my friends hadn’t stuck through it either but here I am. The music and concert band makes it worth it to endure marching band for me personally, but I wish we only did concert pieces all year.”
Students seem to be divided over their like or dislike for marching band. Many love spending their Saturdays at Hurd Stadium and prefer playing marching music. Others loathe the late night rehearsal, the early mornings, and the uniforms that are either too hot or too cold. But many agree that they stick it out for the people involved in band.
So this all seems to boil down to the point of the social aspect of band, as well as the musical part of it. These band kids begin by picking up an instrument and end with a hobby that gives them a whole group of friends, a knack for something not everyone can do, and the possibility of pursuing music after high school.
