The thirty-third 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: Kent Le
Hometown: Duluth, GA
School Name: Duluth High school
Section: Trombone/Baritone
What made you decide to apply to be a part of the band?
The first time I ever wanted to be in band was when I was very young watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. As soon as I saw the low brass and the sheer size of the instruments, I became obsessed with those instruments. With the help of the my band director Mr. Groves, I grew to love our small band program more and more every year.
What part of the trip are you most excited about?
I am very excited to meet new friends and I’m excited to represent Duluth High School in the parade. I’m also excited about being able to play with all the people in my Baritone section and learning different things that everyone brings from their band programs.
What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in band?
Family, individuality, and discipline. These three things are what made me into what I am today. My individuality was brought out by the open arms of my band program. We are small, all different, and all part of the family we have. I learned the concept of discipline and how it applies to everything, from people’s time to rehearsal etiquette.
Most memorable moment in band?
My most memorable moment would be last summer when I went to the Music for All Drum Major Institute and Leadership Weekend at Ball State. Once I got to the camp, the returning members were all very social and open. I also met many friends that I still talk to today. The BOA staff members (SWAGS) were also very nice to all members of the program
Besides band, what are you involved in at school?
Besides marching band, concert band, and jazz band, I’m a member of the Winter Guard, student council, Tri-M club, Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra, and an officer of the Junior Classical League.
What’s your favorite book?
Jack Blank and the Imagine Nation by Matt Myklusch
What’s your favorite song or piece of music?
Jupiter by Gustav Holst
Favorite movie?
Finding Nemo
Favorite ice cream flavor?
Cookies and Cream
What’s your current plan for what you want to do after graduating high school?
I am planning on applying for college and majoring in special education with a minor in music therapy.
Have you participated in MFA/BOA events before? Which ones?
I have not gone to a BOA competition, but I have gone to the Music for All Drum Major Institute and Leadership Weekend at Ball State. I also plan on going again for my senior year.
Tell us something interesting/unique about you:
I play more that just wind instruments. I started electric guitar and bass guitar in 1st grade. I played trombone first, and then I learned to play Baritone for marching band. I have also been the only guy in our Winter Guard for 2 years. I’m outgoing, not afraid of hard work, adventurous, and funny.
