SENIOR SALUTE — BAND EDITION

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RYAN MROFCHAK (left) and DANIELLE FISHER.

Name: Ryan Mrofchak; Danielle Fisher

Instrument: Clarinet and Bass Clarinet; Flute

Q. When did you start playing your instrument?

A. Mrofchak: I started to play my instrument in the fifth grade. I chose this instrument because I enjoyed the sound of the instrument whenever I watched the high school bands perform. I knew once I tried out for the clarinet in the fifth grade it would be the perfect instrument for me.

Fisher: I started playing the flute in the fifth grade. I chose the flute because my dad played a woodwind instrument, so I wanted to play the flute.

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

A. Mrofchak: My best memory of marching band would be on New Year’s Eve 2013 when the band performed in Magic Kingdom. I will never forget the massive crowd of people cheering us on as we played “Zippity Doo Dah” down Main Street. Thatt night, when 2014 began, will be an experience I will never forget. I will also cherish all the Massillon Band Nights I have performed in. The intensity and unity the band has during these performances are the team work I will miss very much.

Fisher: My favorite memory of being in band is Massillon and Canfield Band Nights. Also going to Disney World in Orlando, Florida with the band to play on Main Street on New Year’s Eve 2013.

Q. Why is music important to you?

A. Mrofchak: Music is important to me because it has opened the doorway for so many opportunities. Without music, I would not have the friends I have made throughout the years, nor would I have all the fond memories that result in performing. Music has taught me how to discipline myself when songs needed to be learned. Music has also taught me to never give up. With practice, I know I can achieve anything I set my mind to; without music, I would never have discovered this valuable lesson. I will always use the skills I have learned in music into everything I do. Some of my favorite musical numbers during marching band were “All of the Lights” and “Party Rock” because they contained fun dance sets. My favorite concert band songs were “Synergy Rising,” “Symphonic Dances” and “Bayou Breakdown” because they were changing and the hard work paid off during our performance.

Fisher: Music is important to me because I was brought up in it. My dad sings, so I sing. I have always had some kind of music in my life by way of musical instruments or singing.

Q. If you were speaking to a group of students about joining the band, what would be your number 1 reason for joining the band?

A. Mrofchak: My number one reason for any student joining the band would be because you never know where it can take you. When I joined band in the fifth grade I knew it would be a fun activity, but I did not expect to meet so many people throughout the years, nor did I expect all the opportunities I had with the band. I know if I did not join band, then my high school experience would have been completely different from what it has been. I gained so many skills through band programs that I will use for the rest of my life. Students entering the fifth grade should not be intimidated by the daunting task of learning an instrument. I am glad I made the decision to join the band, and I have not regretted this decision since the first day of fifth grade. So join the band - you never know where it will take you.

Fisher: If I was talking to a group of students about participating in band, I would tell them to join band because it’s great to have music in your life. Also you meet a lot of people and go on some fun trips.

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

A. Mrofchak: I intend on majoring in Biology, but I am currently undecided on which college I would like to attend.

Fisher: I hope to attend YSU. I am still undecided on my major at this time.