As school resumes for the second quarter, many students in concert band are preparing for their first performance of the year on November 22. For most, it will be the first of their high school career as well.

Out of 32 students in the ensemble, 22 are freshmen. Knowing this, much time must go into ensuring the concert’s successful debut.

The music selection varies from slow, tuning-based songs to high-tempo marches, and these different pieces will be challenging to perfect in style.

Practice is the key word.

“I get to practice with my family. My father is a professional musician and we practice at home,” said freshman trumpet player Adam Weiss.

Utilizing recordings during practice also helps students tremendously by allowing them to reflect on a song in its entirety rather than just tuning into their sole part.

Because students are required to come up with problem areas that still need work, they are unknowingly learning to diagnose it for themselves in the future.

With expectations high, it is important to keep in mind that the musicians behind the performance are subject to stumble too.

“You set yourself up for failure if you walk in expecting everything to go right because we’re dealing with humans and everyone makes mistakes, we just try to eliminate as many as possible before we get there.” said Mr. Sampayan, director of concert band.

Many freshmen this year have set musical goals to audition into other bands, such as jazz, symphonic, and the honor band.

“There are a lot more of opportunities presented [in concert band] and this will tie into how I move on to symphonic band in the next few years,” said freshman flute player Lily Deliman.

Some even balance the indoor music with marching band, allowing more practice on their instrument.

Along with preparing for their first concert, Winterfest occurs near in date. Separate music must be learned for this, meaning those in multiple bands are going to have to learn how to juggle.