SENIOR SALUTE — BAND EDITION

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STEPHEN TSAGARES (front) and ALLISON KOWAL.

Names: Stephen Tsagares; Allison Kowal

Instrument: Alto Saxophone; Flute and Piccolo

Q. When did you start playing your instrument? Why did you pick the instrument(s) you are playing?

A. Tsagares: I have been playing the saxophone since the fifth grade. I think my dad sparked my interest in the saxophone since he used to play it in high school. I’m very happy with my choice and I have never had intentions of changing instruments. I enjoy playing it.

Kowal: I started playing my instrument at the end of the fourth grade. I picked flute and piccolo because I love the sound of the flute, and I always wanted to play the piccolo.

Q. Best memory of being in band/marching band?

A. Tsagares: One of my best memories of marching band is, in December 2013, we traveled to Disney World to play on New Year’s Eve day on Main Street.

Kowal: My best memory of being in marching band is going to all of the football games and Massillon Band Night. I also enjoyed going to Disney World and performing on New Year’s Eve Day in the Main Street parade.

Q. Why is music important to you?

A. Tsagares: Music is very beneficial to me. It helps me concentrate and is a stress reliever. My favorite musical numbers were “All of the Lights” and “Safety Dance” because they were two of our most impressive marches, and you could tell the audience really enjoyed them as well.

Kowal: Music is important to me because it allows me to express myself. My favorite musical numbers that we performed were “All of the Lights,” “I Don’t Wanna Stop” and “Magical Mystery Tour.” I loved the drills and our dances for these songs; they were so much fun to perform.

Q. If you were speaking to a group of students about joining the band, what would be your number one reason for joining the band?

A. Tsagares: Joining the band is an experience of a lifetime. It is where friendships and memories are made and will last a lifetime.

Kowal: My number one reason for joining the marching band is having the opportunities to travel with the band and meet new people.

Q. What college do you hope to attend/intended major?

A. Tsagares: I plan on attending YSU; my major is undecided at this time.

Kowal: I hope to attend Arizona State University, with a major in some part of the medical field.