These are the voyages of the Davis Enterprise...

That last post was rough, though it was helpful to vent a bit, release a bit of negativity. I hate being negative, the problem is, it's too easy to do. Well, this week I get to go the other direction, reflecting on my time working at Davis Senior High, culminating with the Band trip to Canada this past weekend.

I've been doing a lot of writing on my senior musicology project and that has caused some serious reflection on the year and my work at DHS. I was recently interviewed by one of my students for the Davis Enterprise, and I wanted to throw that in here so it didn't get lost somewhere.

What was your favorite activity on the trip, and why?

Conducting for you guys, of course. I don't think I can convey how much fun it is to direct your bands

What was the best aspect of going on the trip with us, and why?

The trip itself, all the traveling, wandering with the different groups and playing at all the different venues.

What is it like conducting and working with the DHS bands?

Conducting and working with you guys has completely confirmed my desires to become a music educator. This entire year has been a blast and I think I'm spoiled for the rest of my career by working with you. Between the dedication and energy the students bring to the program and the complete support the community puts behind its music programs, I don't think I'm going to find this environment anywhere else. Though, that won't stop me from trying to replicate it wherever I go.

Which was your favorite performance venue to conduct on the trip?

My favorite venue was playing on the steps of the Parliament building in Victoria. The crowd we drew, the music we played and the prestige and history of the venue brought about a lot of excitement.

How did you get involved in working for the bands in the first place?

I was thinking about getting my credential in music after graduating and wanted to observe and intern in some of the music classes at the high school. When I asked Fred Lange if I could come in a few times a week, observe and help out, he told me if I could make it every day, he'd offer me a job. My job description is more a second pair of hands helping to keep the music classes running smoothly, but Fred's let me expand the position and take ownership in his program, basically turning it into a student teaching position. I've given lectures, arranged music, worked as a section coach and led rehearsals. My favorite part of the job, though, is that he lets me rehearse and conduct my own pieces in the concerts.

What do you want to do with your music instruction experience in the future?

I'm headed to CSUS next semester and starting my work on a teaching credential. If I'm lucky I hope to weasel my way into a masters program in conducting or education in a year or two.