Both sophomores Hailey Purvis and Adam Cheek have been in the Fauquier High School (FHS) band community for one year. Purvis plays the clarinet and focuses just on one instrument and Cheek plays percussion which is over 10 instruments to practice and focus on. Cheek has been participating in band since 6th grade and has continued his journey through FHS.
Cheek enjoys the honor band and its qualities. “The honor band is a program where the best music people play and learn,” said Cheek. Purvis claims that it can be both hard and easy at times by saying, “The honor band is definitely hard, it’s easy to get in. But once you start going to the program and you realize what music you’re playing, it is not easy, it is still enjoyable though.” Both Purvis and Cheek just recently got accepted to go to the University of South Carolina (USC) in South Carolina on the 13th-16th of Feb. Due to their astonishing skill in the honor band. The university is known for academic excellence, research and a diverse student body. It helps with students’ talents like art, technology, and international business.
On the first day at USC, the honor band students took a long rehearsal at the beginning of the day to practice and attend to their instruments. After their hard work, the students took a lunch break and then went back for a master class that was separated by instrument. Then, in the afternoon, they perform at their concerts.
Purvis and Cheek have achieved and accomplished a lot throughout their band journey. “I have learned a lot of new things…got to participate in the marching band, and…did a bunch of fun activities,” said Cheek. Purvis and Cheek put a lot of time into their instruments and have accomplished a lot in their time in the honor band. Due to showing up to practice on time and practicing their instruments, they are excited to be involved in this experience to further their passion in music.
Hailey and Adam have improved a lot with their instruments due to the honor band. They have been taught a lot throughout their experience and have learned more about their instruments. Being a part of the honor band brings pride to FHS and the musical community.
