This is the thirteenth installment of a new chapter in our Student Features series on the blog that we will be posting leading up to the 2017 Music for All National Festival, presented by Yamaha. Music for All will be featuring three honor ensembles (Honor Band of America, Honor Orchestra of America, and the Jazz Band of America) at the Music for All National Festival, March 9th through March 11th. We look forward to getting to know all of these wonderful students who have been accepted into these prestigious ensembles!
Name: Jordan Dreyer
Hometown: West Milford, NJ
School Name: West Milford Township High School
Instrument: Bassoon
Which Ensemble Are You In?
Honor Band of America
What made you decide to apply to be a part of the ensemble?
I am always trying to find outside ensembles to get involved with, but living in my area makes it difficult. I also love playing and meeting other musicians, and I wanted to challenge myself to strive for something that I thought was out of my reach.
What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in band or orchestra?
I have learned how to work well with others, come out of my comfort zone, and you only get out what you put into something.
Besides band/orchestra, what are you involved in at school?
Besides my Wind Ensemble, I am involved with Marching Band and Indoor Percussion, where I play Marimba.
What book have you read that you would recommend?
The House of The Scorpion by Nancy Farmer.
What’s your favorite song or piece of music?
My favorite piece of music is Borodin’s Symphony No. 2. It is one of the first pieces I had played in a major orchestra, and it gave me more inspiration and motivation to keep working towards my musical ambitions. Particularly the third movement speaks to me the most because whenever I perform it or listen to it, it gives me an indescribable feeling of joy.
What’s your favorite non-music related hobby or past time?
My favorite non-music related hobby or past time is either photography or hiking.
What’s your current plan for what you want to do after graduating high school?
After graduating high school, I want to get my undergraduate degree in Music Performance on Bassoon, and eventually get my masters degree in performance as well.
Tell us something interesting/unique about you:
I have a twin sister who plays clarinet, bass clarinet, bagpipes, and is the Pipe Major of the West Milford Highlander Pipes and Drums.
