The twelfth 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: Helder Perez-Viera
Hometown: South Chicago Heights
School Name: Marian Catholic High School
Section: Tuba
What made you decide to apply to be a part of the band?
As I was walking through the tunnel at Grand Nationals last year, I saw on the big screen that they were announcing the honor band. I knew this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I decided to take a chance and audition.
What part of the trip are you most excited about?
I’m most excited about traveling to California and going to Disneyland. This will be my first time leaving the midwest and going to a Disney park.
What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in band?
Over my short year and a half at Marian and being involved with the band, I’ve learned leadership, fellowship, and personal responsibility in daily effort.
Most memorable moment in band?
My most memorable moment in band happened this year. After we finished our finals run at Grand Nationals, I was left without words. All the hard work payed off in the end.
Besides band, what are you involved in at school?
I’m on the men’s varisty soccer team and I am also on the tennis team.
What’s your favorite book?
I enjoy Greek mythology.
What’s your favorite song or piece of music?
Medea’s Meditation and Dance of Vengeance by Samuel Barber
Favorite movie?
X-Men: Apocalypse
Favorite ice cream flavor?
Chocolate
What’s your current plan for what you want to do after graduating high school?
My current plan for after high school as of right now, is to double major in music and biology. That is what I have planned now, but it could possibly change in the remainder of my high school career.
Have you participated in MFA/BOA events before? Which ones?
I’ve participated in the 2015 and 2016 Indianapolis Super Regional, as well as the Grand National events.
Tell us something interesting/unique about you:
I actually started on trumpet when I was in middle school and learned tuba in 7th grade. I would constantly be switching back and forth between pieces. Once I got to high school I finally made the permanent switch to tuba. I also learned how to play trombone so I could play in jazz band.
