MAYOWA AINA
"A touch of class"
"The Symphonic Band is the second auditioned wind group at the University of Washington, performing a repertoire of classic and contemporary wind music.While one of the goals of the UWSB is to promote each member’s development as an independent musician, the Symphonic Band is by nature a collaborative and inter-dependent musical unit. The success of any individual is directly related to the success of every other participating musician." (UWSB Course Description)
"The Husky Marching Band is a year round ensemble that actively participates in supporting all of the Husky Athletics. The UW Athletic Bands program, particularly the distinguished Husky Marching Band, allows students from practically every degree-granting program at the UW and at other colleges and universities in the Seattle area a chance to take part in one of America’s most exciting collegiate marching bands, thereby providing for their continued musical growth and, more importantly, enabling them to establish life-long friendships" (HMB Website).
I have been in school band programs since the 5th grade. Currently I play clarinet in the UW Symphonic Band and march in the Husky Marching Band. My college band experience has been transformative and provided me with a family of individuals who understand the importance of this creative outlet. I enjoy having such a regular challenge and being able to perform on a regular basis. Performance keeps me on my toes, provides a creative challenge, and Joining the marching band having never marched a day in my life was at once terrifying and exhilarating. I learned an entirely new set of skills and gained a new band family that has pushed me and supported me in ways that I did not know that I needed. My band experience has taught me so much about who I am, what matters to me, and the incredible opportunities that can open up if you take the risk.
Learn more about the University of Washington Symphonic Band
Learn more about the University of Washington Husky Marching Band
Responsibility for Personal Behavior...
Although I am but a single part within the entire band, I have learned a certain sense of personal responsibility. Not only does not knowing my music due to lack of practice or not knowing my position on the field as a result of not paying attention contribute to the inefficacy of the band as a whole, but personal behavior is no longer just a reflection upon myself but my entire band. This idea is exemplified in the “Touch of Class” motto that we say within the band. No matter where we are, what we’re doing, or who’s talking to us we are to have a touch of class when we’re representing the band. And if you fall short, as we all do at some point, the most important thing is to be truthful, own up to your mistakes, and move on. In actuality, failure is nothing but a learning experience. As a musician, I have to fail before I can get better, so getting comfortable to missing notes or step-turns, I have found, is the key to getting better. Participating in band programs has instilled a certain amount of pride within me that hinges on each person’s contribution to the band and acceptance of personal responsibility to see that our pride and reputation remains in tact.
Follow-through...
Follow-through and dependability are critical to a functioning band. Every single person on every part has to be trusted to do what they need to do to be able to perform to the best of their ability. Lack of follow-through could potentially lead to no longer being asked to participate in the band. As members who auditioned and were accepted into the band, we all made a commitment to the band and that requires that everyone do their part to contribute to the success of the band.