Sophomore clarinet player Jake Hopkins, along with his fellow band members, trembled with anticipation but were eager to give their best performance.
The band received first division ratings at UIL this year, maintaining its consistent record of top-tier performances.
Band director Chris Bronson said directing the school’s band for UIL is about more than just performing—it’s about continuing a legacy of excellence.
“The school has had a long tradition of first division ratings and marching and concert and sight reading, and just every year that we’re able to continue the tradition is something I take a lot of pride in,” Bronson said.
While competition day brings intensifying pressure, Bronson takes a different approach to handling it. Instead of letting stress define the moment, he instills urgency and focus during rehearsals long before the event.
“That way, when the day comes, we can let loose and focus on performing and having fun,” Bronson said.
Senior bassoonist Jacob Mueller earned a solo spot in Four Scottish Dances at UIL. Bronson said he is proud of Mueller’s development, noting how much he had improved throughout the years.
“Most of the time your skill level fluctuates, but for me, it’s mainly a mental game of staying focused and being consistent in what I do,” Mueller said.
Mueller’s practice paid off when he took center stage for his solo during the UIL competition. Playing in front of an audience, he embraced the challenge, turning months of preparation into an outstanding moment.
“It was actually really fun,” Mueller said. “Playing my solo in front of an audience like that and [being] congratulated in front of everybody is really nice.”
Junior euphonium player and section leader Chloe Crittenden said the journey was more than just music. It was about the people, the discipline and the transformation of a group into something greater than when they started.
“When I was in middle school, I didn’t really feel a sense of togetherness,” Crittenden said. “But now, especially during marching season, I have my section, and it feels a lot more like a family.”
