The one-hundred and ninth 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!

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Name: Joseph Diaz

Hometown: El Dorado Hills, CA

School Name: Oak Ridge High School

Section: Trombone

What made you decide to apply to be a part of the band?
I decided to apply for the band because I wanted to march in the Rose Parade and participate in one of the best honor bands in America. I enjoy marching and playing Trombone, and was looking for a unique experience that would bring some of the best marchers and musicians together.

What part of the trip are you most excited about?
I am most excited about marching in the Rose Parade. I have watched it on TV before, and am elated to actually participate in it instead of watching the parade at home.

What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in band?
I have learned to work hard, stay calm, and to work well with others from being involved in band. Without those three things, the band and individual player simply cannot be successful.

Most memorable moment in band?
The most memorable moment I’ve had in band was during a football game. Our band marched onto the field, but when a left haste was called, a majority of the band turned right. Everyone was extremely confused, but we managed to pull it together and exit the field successfully.

Besides band, what are you involved in at school?
I am involved on the tennis team, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the National Honor Society at my school.

What’s your favorite book?
My favorite book is the Ranger’s Apprentice series.

What’s your favorite song or piece of music?
My favorite piece of music is Star Wars.

Favorite movie?
Star Wars

Favorite ice cream flavor?
Vanilla

What’s your current plan for what you want to do after graduating high school?
I plan to attend a four-year college and pursue a degree in Music Performance. If possible, I would like to double major or get a dual degree.

Have you participated in MFA/BOA events before? Which ones?
I participated in the Honor Band of America in Indianapolis in 2016, and recently found out that I made the 2017 Honor Band of America.

Tell us something interesting/unique about you:
I am half Chamorro- my dad was born on the tiny island of Saipan (in the Northern Mariana Islands). I am a huge fan of the Oregon Ducks, and have been since I was little.

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