Musicians are known for being some of the most complex figures. In order to understand them better, this interview with Montclair High School’s band was conducted to see what exactly goes on in their minds. 

These students are driven by ambition to play their instrument. They don’t feel as if they have to play their instrument, they play it because they want to, and they don’t know who they would be without it. Because most musicians are perfectionists, musicians are often frustrated – yet they have a will that powers through them and keeps them going. It is not only the instruments themselves that these students cherish, it is also the band class. They feel that they are a part of something bigger and are able to become closer to each other by listening and collaborating. As one student says, “Band class itself has given me a sense of community… [the ability] to work together and make something whole. [We’re] part of something bigger.”

Many of these students’ parents were the ones who encouraged them to begin playing an instrument, and what started out feeling like a chore blossomed into a deep love to continue playing. One student recalls how his mom even signed him up for band class without permission, but he is glad she did. Alessandro Ferrara, a percussionist, says, “I didn’t want to sign up for band when I went to high school, but my mom signed me up for it behind my back. And now, I’m two years into [this class] and there’s no turning back.”

One of the many mysteries about musicians is if certain players of instruments share similar traits. One may notice that many piano players have oddly-shaped fingers, but whether that is a coincidence from birth or a result of the strenuous chords – it is not clear. For flute players, they all share a delicacy about them, a soft personality and a desire to observe. Keira Malone, a flutist, says, “In the literal sense and the metaphorical, listening to people around you and being able to hear what other people are saying… you have to collaborate with others and blend with others.” These musicians are all outspoken, humble, and unique.

The most valuable lesson from these students is how important it is to do something that can make the world all the more joyous. Everyone, no matter what they do, must fulfill the creative obligation that lives inside of them, and develop something they can be consumed by. “It brings us closer,” Tyler Beecham, who plays several instruments, remarked.

This band class helped these students discover a deeper love for their instrument, and having a class like that to look forward to is a wonderful thing.

Throughout their lives, these students have been playing instruments, which has instilled in them a discipline and a determination from an early age. This discipline has shaped these students’ lives, and will continue to shape them as long as there is music in the world. Playing music transforms people. 

“I moved here from a different country, [and I] didn’t speak English. My core teachers thought I was a person who did not know my subject matter, and always thought I was the student that was the least smart of the bunch. In reality, in my other school, I was ahead a grade and in all the AP classes at a young age. The only [teacher] that actually gave time, and worked, and tried to understand me, or teach me, was my music teacher. And, with that, I promised myself I would be that person for some students in the future,” the band and orchestra teacher, Ms. Rishi, says. Ms. Rishi inspires her students and has let no one go unheard.
After all, who are musicians without being heard?