by Katie McManus
Music has the power to unite individuals of diverse backgrounds. In Colonie Central High School, many students participate in a performing art. I had the opportunity to sit down with a few students to gain perspective on the role music plays in their lives.
Q: What role has music played in your life?
Brianna Turner, senior violin player: It has always been an escape for me. I remember one day I was really upset, so I went down to the music office and played my violin in one of the practice rooms. I felt a little better.
Emily Finlan, senior cello player: It has basically guided me. I can’t even imagine my life if I didn’t have it.
Amelia Jones, senior trombone player: When I first started playing, I didn’t really think it would do anything for me. I kind of hated it until tenth grade when I made second chair in band, which is a huge responsibility. I decided to rise to the occasion and fell in love with the instrument between private lessons and seeing what trombone is really like.
Q: How has music shaped you as an individual?
BT: I’ve always been a really creative student. I’m going to major in art, so it helps me be a little more creative. If I’m thinking of painting a picture, I can think of how a song makes me feel and then I can paint the picture.
EF: I think it has taught me a lot of responsibility because I have to practice every day. It taught me that there is always someone better than you, but that just makes you want to be better.
AJ: It has done a lot for my dedication. You need to dedicate yourself to it. You can’t half put yourself into it. You have to let it overcome you and let it become you.
Q: Has music opened you up to any other opportunities?
EF: Definitely. I play in the Empire State Youth Orchestra. I don’t know what I would go to college for if I didn’t have music.
AJ: Oh, plenty. I was principal chair in Area All State. I take private lessons with a teacher who has made me so much better.
Q: What have you learned from performing in an ensemble?
BT: How to work together and how to listen. It’s really important.
EF: I’ve learned that you should be proud of what you accomplished after weeks and weeks of work. You should just be excited to share with other people.
AJ: Leadership and patience. You can’t get upset with someone who plays a sharp when it’s supposed to be a flat.
Q: Will you continue playing after highschool?
BT: I probably will. I don’t see a reason not to. It’s always going to be a skill I will have unless I develop carpal tunnel! (Laughs)
EF: Obviously! (Laughs)
AJ: I will. My parents got me a very nice trombone. I’m only applying to colleges with music programs.
