This is the thirtieth 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: Madi Childs
Hometown: Yorkville, IL
School Name: Yorkville High School
Instrument: Clarinet
Which Ensemble Are You In?
Honor Band of America
What made you decide to apply to be a part of the ensemble?
My lesson teacher participated in it when he was in high school and it sounded like an awesome experience. My friend and I decided to both apply, and we are both excited to be there this March!
What are three things you’ve learned from being involved in band or orchestra?
1. Making music is something like no other and is truly a special gift.
2. Sounding amazing does not come easily, you have to work extra hard and love it.
3. It is a serious commitment, but has been by far the most fun and rewarding thing I have ever done.
Most memorable moment in band or orchestra?
The entirety of my time at the Illinois All State Music Conference. Playing in the All-State Honors Band was an amazing experience. Also, my band, the Yorkville High School Wind Ensemble, was selected to play at the State Conference.
Besides band/orchestra, what are you involved in at school?
I used to be in competitive dance and also theatre. I do not have time for those anymore due to my immense commitment to music. This includes marching band section leader, jazz band, clarinet choir, pit orchestra, and other chamber practices.
What book have you read that you would recommend?
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
What’s your favorite song or piece of music?
“The Planets Suite” by Gustav Holst and George Gerwshin pieces such as “Rhapsody in Blue” and “An American in Paris”.
Favorite ice cream flavor?
Anything with a lot of chocolate.
What’s your favorite non-music related hobby or past time?
Hanging out with friends or family, and playing video games.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give a friend who needs some inspiration or motivation?
Wherever your passion lies, put your heart and soul into it. If you want to improve, you must have patience because it takes a lot of hard work.
What’s your current plan for what you want to do after graduating high school?
After high school I plan on studying Clarinet Performance. I would like to play for orchestras and teach. Also, I will continue to compose music.
Have you participated in MFA/BOA events before? Which ones?
I have not participated before.
Tell us something interesting/unique about you:
I love to compose and arrange music in my free time. I write music for just about any type or size of instrumental group you could think of.
