The music community is an essential part of HEHS. Orchestra and band are both offered by HEHS and are one of the reasons that make our school great. Both are very important parts of the musical world and to our students.
“I love the unique challenge of bringing so many people together whether it be from different backgrounds, different school environments, different home environments and coming together with different instruments to make a collective sound and learn as individuals but grow as a group,” said Thomas Chester, orchestra director.
Our school’s orchestra consists of string instruments while our band focuses on wind instruments which makes them each unique in their own way.
“I would say it’s a very beautiful sounding instrument,” says Anushka Singh, freshman violinist.
Most of our orchestra and band students have been in the program since elementary school, and those who have stayed have been very committed to learning more about their instruments and bringing their skills to a group. Even though some may feel like the class is a chore, they have still stuck with it all these years leading up to and in high school.
“Band is really fun, and I enjoy it a lot, and I’ll do it every single year of high school,” says Shukan Patel, a freshman trumpet player.
There may have been many different ways in which students have been inspired to join orchestra and band. While the inspiration fluctuates, over the years, students have come to enjoy it. Even teachers at first, have found themselves bored in their respective group. Whether the inspiration came from family, or from just wanting to make music, it’s what led both students and teachers to where they are today.
“My mom played an instrument, and she wanted me and my brothers to do it,” says Brian Ferguson, a band director.
Orchestra and band are each a community of their own and allow the students to be more involved and comfortable at HEHS. While orchestra and band have their own challenges, they are a break from rigorous academic courses and help students to release stress.
“I don’t feel judged at all in class [because] everyone’s like really nice and stuff you know?” said Katherine Diaz, freshman bassist.
Orchestra and band have a lot to offer to students in the classroom and outside of school. Music can open many pathways in life, from career choices to even improving health.
