Band reaches young musicians at North Cobb High School

by Chandra Lloyd
Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs Office

12/17/2012 - ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga.  -- The Band of the U.S. Air Force Reserve hosted a music clinic for young musicians at North Cobb High School during their holiday tour throughout Georgia, Dec. 12.

North Cobb High School was the fourth stop during the band's holiday concert tour throughout Georgia. The tour began in Warner Robins, went through Norcross, Waleska, and ended in Newnan.

The clinic taught the students different performance and delivery techniques, ways to listen while rehearsing a piece in a small group, and the requirements for being an Air Force musician.

"The best thing we offer is inspiration. We want the students to know that hard work pays off if they continue pursuing music, said Tech. Sgt. Amy Moran, Reserve Brass Quintet NCOIC. "Music is about working hard, but also about enjoying it and provides the opportunity to speak to people in a different language."

The musicians were divided into three groups - woodwind, brass and percussion, so the Reserve band members could focus on the students specific questions pertaining to their instrument.

Valacia Gaynor, a senior and flutist in the North Cobb school band said the clinic was eye opening and helped to improve her technique. She praised Senior Airman Gant for her example.

"I have to work on my tonguing and articulation, and hers is (Gant) defined, and very strong. She had a more wholesome tone, and so hearing her makes me want to improve my sound.

Zach Wender, a junior and trumpeter said the clinic reiterated techniques and information that their band director, Greg Williams, taught the class.

"I think today's message was, play music for the enjoyment of music and help your listener enjoy your performance," said Williams. "This clinic was inspirational even for me as the director. I've been doing this for 27 years and it was still motivating for me to hear."

Band members involved in the music clinic include Tech. Sgt. Amy Moran, Tech. Sgt. Ryan Miles, Tech. Sgt. Heather Kirschner, Tech. Sgt. David Vittetoe, Senior Airman Will McCrary, Senior Airman Kelly Fussell, and Senior Airman Mary Gant.