The concert wind symphony band enjoyed a trip to Indianapolis to participate in the Music for All National Festival. This is a selective convention in which the group had the opportunity to play with other talented bands from around the country.

The actual festival took place March 6-8 and was presented by Yamaha, celebrating excellent music making by America’s best orchestras, concert bands and percussion ensembles. Rather than encouraging a competitive environment, the festival aimed to inspire collaboration, mutual respect and growth among individuals from across the nation.

Instrumentalists involved in the trip were excited and proud to play in such an event.

“We were selected for the festival, along with 20-something other bands and percussion ensembles,” explained junior Alaina Friedrich. “It was awesome that our band got in because the competition can be tough.”

Going into the trip, students had high expectations.

“I hoped that nobody would die, and I also hoped that we would get good food and that the hotel shower stream wouldn’t hurt my skin,” Friedrich added.

Experiences and memories made at the festival proved unique and cherishable by musicians who participated.

“The Music for All National Festival consisted of the top bands and percussion ensembles in the nation,” said junior Sophia Portelli. “We all came together and were able to play for each other and work with some truly amazing musicians, composers and directors.”

Rather than competing with other schools across the nation, band and percussion musicians had the opportunity to collaborate and share their talents and abilities.

“It was less of a competition and more of a collaborative festival and sharing of musical excellence,” said Portelli. “We did receive  a special plaque though! I think I speak for all of my fellow musicians when I say that this was an incredible opportunity and something we will never forget. I hope Stillwater will be chosen to participate again soon.

Besides the showcase that was the focus of the festival, musicians enjoyed each other’s company.

“We had a dance and a gala to interact with other teens,” told Portelli. “I really enjoyed listening to the two national honor bands comprised of kids from every state. The social was also awesome and I loved jamming out and singing with kids during free time.”

Band has proved to be a rewarding experience for many.

“I’ve found band to be a fun extracurricular,” said Friedrich, “And I enjoy that there isn’t much mean-spirited competition in the music department, like I see often between other programs at our school. Band is fun because people aren’t rude to each other and we are all here for something bigger than ourselves.”

Looking ahead to the future of band beyond the trip, band members are thankful for that which music has given them.

“I hope that we as a group are able to continue with good performance,” Friedrich said, “And that we don’t need a levy passed to ensure our participation in the music program.”

Music plays a strong and important role in many students’ lives, and band members in particular can vouch for their appreciation of the art.

“I love moving people with music, especially with such a special band full of people I love,” said Portelli. “This week just reminded me why I decided to pick up an instrument. Music isn’t about playing the notes on a page and being done with it. It’s about emotion and putting your entire soul into a piece of music, telling a story, and moving the entire audience to tears and standing ovations—which happened at nearly every performance this week.”

Band and percussion members alike thoroughly enjoyed their time in Indianapolis and will continue to represent Stillwater well with their talent and passion for music.