Garden City High School Wind Ensemble inspires future musicians at district elementary schools
On May 21, the Garden City High School Wind Ensemble visited Stewart and Stratford Elementary Schools to perform for fourth and fifth grade students and share their experiences as members of the GC Band program. The event was organized with the help of elementary band teachers Riana Bader and Brandon Psenicka.
During the visit, the high school musicians spoke about the importance of staying dedicated to music throughout their school years and how commitment, hard work and perseverance helped them grow as performers and individuals. Elementary students asked questions about playing in band, improving on an instrument and balancing the effort required to succeed. The high school students also discussed the many opportunities available through the music program, including concert band, jazz band, marching band, performances and travel experiences.
Students explored the different instruments available in band and learned about the variety of musical opportunities that await them as they continue through the district’s music program.
The wind ensemble performed several exciting selections for the elementary students, including a Star Wars medley, “Golden” from the film “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” and “Inferno” by Robert W. Smith. During “Inferno,” the elementary students enthusiastically participated during a section of the song, making the experience especially memorable.
Aidan Klocek, one of the GCHS band’s senior student directors, addressed the younger students during the program, sharing his personal journey through nine years in band at GC.
“I first started out sitting where you are today, learning how to play my instrument for the first time,” Klocek said. “Continuing in band throughout middle school and high school led to incredible experiences and opportunities that made all of the hard work worthwhile.”
Klocek reflected on memorable experiences throughout his years in the program, including performances, festivals, NYSSMA majors and a recent performance trip to Walt Disney World. “Our most cherished and special trip this year was going to Disney,” he said. “Being there with friends and performing music there made the experience unforgettable.”
Klocek also shared an important message about perseverance. “My most important lesson that band has taught me is to never give up,” he said. “There were times when I wanted to quit because things became difficult, but staying with it turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.”
The visit provided elementary students with an inspiring look at the opportunities available through the Garden City music program while strengthening connections between younger musicians and the high school ensemble students.