The thirtieth installment of a new series on the blog that we will be posting throughout the month of December. As some of you are aware, Music for All will be taking an Honor Band to the 2017 Rose Parade. Our members were selected by audition for the ensemble and come from all across the United States. We are looking forward to coming together for the first time as a band at the end of December and we hope this series will allow us all to get to know some (hopefully most!) of the members of this awesome ensemble!
Name: Derick Christensen
Hometown: Sylva, NC
School Name: Smoky Mountain High School
Section: Color Guard
What made you decide to apply to be a part of the band?
Bob Buckner came to my school and did a clinic with my marching band, and at the end of it he told us about the Honor Band. I thought that it would be a very cool experience to get to spin with other guard kids from around the USA. I also thought it would be really cool to perform in the Rose Parade because I’ve always watched it on TV and have always wanted to be in it.
What part of the trip are you most excited about?
I am really excited about getting to work with some of the best color guard directors in the country.
What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in band?
If you really want something you will work as hard as you can until you get it; nothing in life is handed to you on a silver platter; and your true friends will stay with you no matter what.
Most memorable moment in band?
My most memorable moment in band was during my first competition and it was pouring rain on us, but we still kept going and we did the best we could to keep our equipment in our very wet hands. At the end of the day we won our class, and it was just so amazing the performance we gave during that rain storm.
Besides band, what are you involved in at school?
I am in an early college program, and I volunteer at my old middle school. I was also a member of S.A.N.D.
What’s your favorite book?
My favorite book is Wicked by Gregory Maguire.
What’s your favorite song or piece of music?
My favorite song is “For Good” from the musical Wicked. I love this song because of the deep message of friendship.
Favorite movie?
Hello Dolly
Favorite ice cream flavor?
Coconut
What’s your current plan for what you want to do after graduating high school?
I plan on finishing my Associate’s Degree, then I plan on going to a 4-year university for Technical Theater with a minor in phlebotomy.
Have you participated in MFA/BOA events before? Which ones?
I have never praticipated in any events by BOA or MFA
Tell us something interesting/unique about you:
I know every line in the musical Wicked.
