In this weeks edition of Artistic Expressions, French horn player Josh Graves talks about much of a close-knit community there is in band, and what it’s been like as a French horn player his past few years.
Josh Graves
Name: Josh Graves
Grade: 10th
Instrument: French Horn
Future College: Unsure
Future Job: Unsure
Years in Band: 5
Inspiration: The directors and the band, music
Favorite Musician: Dave Grohl, Tim Henson
Wingspan: What made you choose the French horn?
Graves: It was the only instrument I could make a sound on during instrument tryouts.
Wingspan: What made you want to choose to do band?
Graves: Playing an instrument seemed like it would be fun, and I had an older sister in band.
Wingspan: How does band impact your daily life?
Graves: It teaches me to always look for improvement and to do my best, and the people in band are very nice and supportive.
Wingspan: Are you considering continuing band beyond? Why?
Graves: Yes, because music is something I really enjoy, and I would like to continue it.
Wingspan: What are your personal goals for this year?
Graves: In band, my goals are to be more comfortable with performing in front of others.
Wingspan: What is your favorite thing about marching band?
Graves: My favorite thing is being able to do a show with the band and see its musical and visual improvement throughout the months put into it.
Wingspan: How do you balance band, school, and any other extracurriculars?
Graves: I usually look into the weeks ahead to plan out times to dedicate to both band and schoolwork. This way I make sure that I’m on top of all my work.
Wingspan: What’s your favorite memory of the band?
Graves: My favorite memory would either be all the fun I’ve had performing at football games with the band and my section, or making state since it is such a big accomplishment for me.
Wingspan: What is your advice to anybody thinking about joining the band?
Graves: Band teaches you to give your best into everything you do, and to not give up so easily. There will be many times where you struggle from weaknesses, but instead of giving up, try focusing on and improving your weaknesses. The Liberty Band is a very caring community that teaches you many qualities that you can take with you throughout life.
Wingspan: If you had to pick a different instrument to play what would it be?
Graves: I would probably pick Trombone because I like its sound. It also looks like a fun instrument to play.