Ever since Sarah was introduced to the world of music in kindergarten, she knew that she belonged in band. Four years later, when she picked up her first flute, it was clear Sarah had a talent that would last a lifetime.
From the start of her high school career, Sarah stated that the drum majors she has had over the years have been her biggest inspirations and support systems. She explained, “When I saw the way my freshman year drum majors Clara Bennet-Jones and Ariana Giammanco led the band, I knew that I wanted to be able to have that sort of impact on people as well.” Sarah’s experience proves that when it comes to successful environments, the people truly do make the place. Senior Julia Grogan has been playing with her for years, and when it comes to Sarah’s dedication and talent, Julia goes on to say, “Sarah’s a very hard working girl. Ever since I’ve known her she has been very determined and persistent.” It is clear that Sarah could not have gotten to where she is today in her musical career without her outstanding hard work and dedication.
Sarah’s dedication to her craft over the years has earned her some impressive awards and recognition. Her most recent solo in the spring concert was titled “The Great Train Race,” a complicated song that requires years of experience. At this year’s music awards dinner, Sarah also received “The National School Marching Award” for her contributions to the marching band, as well as being nationally recognized for the “John Phillip Sousa” band award, given to students who portray “pinnacle achievement for a high school band” as well as “superior musicianship and outstanding dedication.” Given Sarah’s clear commitment to the band and unwavering efforts, these awards are certainly well-deserved.
Although her work ethic and dedication have contributed to where she is today, Sarah states that she would not have been able to do it without her closest friends by her side. She continues, “They have always been there to support me and have made this program so fun because of their humor and so successful because of their dedication. I feel really connected to these people because we all have a common love for music, and hearing all our hard work pay off when we play during the concert is always so rewarding.”
Although Sarah’s successful career is something that anyone can look up to, she has had to overcome many challenges to get to where she is today. Sarah explains that being a perfectionist is a two-way street in a band. Her perfectionism is what creates her strong work ethic and dedication, but it also leads to self-criticism. Sarah explains that it’s difficult when she becomes self-critical after mistakes, and with her role as a section leader, the pressure can feel difficult and intense to manage.
Even in difficult situations, Sarah always has someone by her side. She explains the support from her music teacher, Mr Sloezen: “Even through my self-doubt, he always pushed me past my limits and believed in me, and it was really encouraging to have him as a mentor and a role model. Through the challenges, I was able to find my voice and confidence. I’m really proud of myself for that.” When asked about Sarah’s contribution to the Ramapo band, he goes on to say, “Sarah’s musical ability and commitment have set her apart since the beginning of her high school career. […]She balances authority and empathy, motivating those around her while maintaining an environment of dedication and enthusiasm. As both a Ramapo alumnus and the band director for the past four years, I can confidently say that Sarah is one of the most talented flute players I have seen come through the program here.”
Sarah’s passion for music and talent are clear effects of the positive environment that the Ramapo band creates. Her accomplishments are not only impressive, but something to look up to.
