With spring break in the past, the DeMatha music program eagerly waits for what’s to come. On April 18, the best musicians and vocalists in the school will take a trip to Virginia Beach for their annual music festival. Joseph Schweitzer, a DeMatha senior and member of the honors orchestra and wind ensemble, talked a little about his high expectations for this weekend.
“Mr. Bickel and Mr. Castrillon have prepared us extensively for this upcoming experience and expect nothing less than “1’s” from each performance,” Joseph said. A “1” is the highest rating obtainable for a performance.
The wind ensemble has historically always performed perfectly at this event. Over the last 50 years, the group has consistently received the highest score possible from each performance. Joseph believes that this is not only an obtainable feat, but it’s mandatory based on the work put into preparing for this event. “My practice schedule is unreal. We have been preparing for this event almost like our life depends on it and I know we are ready.”
Joseph talked about his excitement going into this weekend and the pressure he feels to uphold this DeMatha tradition. “This is my third time taking this trip over my high school career,” Joseph said. “I feel a strong sense of adrenaline surge at the thought of being on that stage. Overall, while I am excited to be there with my peers, this is a business trip. I am not looking to have a great time outside of taking care of business and reaching the goal.”
This mindset, coupled with a strong sense of responsibility and the need to win, makes this program so successful and eager for the trip to come.
