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USAF Band helps NY students hone craft

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Bahja Joi Jones
  • 11th Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, D.C. --  The U.S. Air Force Band hosted a group of young musicians from the InterSchool Orchestra in New York, for a musical clinic Feb. 16, 2013 on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, D.C.

"We chose to make our first tour in 10 years educational so our young people could gain a lot of knowledge from seasoned professionals," said Brian Worsdale, InterSchool Orchedstra Symphonic Band founder and conductor. "I thought that the perfect relationship would be that of the military bands, since they are dedicated to service as well as education."

During the clinic, students were divided into sectionals for "master classes." The students were grouped with an Air Force musician who played the same instrument and provided expertise on what the students could do to improve their sound.

"Watching the coaching, I noticed a great deal of attention was given to sound and technique - things that are important to the music they will play all of their lives," said Worsdale.

The student were given tips and "tricks to put up their sleeves" to carry with them throughout their musical careers.

"It was very helpful and I can take a lot from it," said Ashara Diljohn, a high school senior. "I can take the advice that was given to me and use it in other orchestras and ensembles that I am a part of."

The appreciation extended to both sides of the spectrum as both students and professionals gained from the experience.

"I always draw energy by working with youth. It takes me back to my days of high school teaching prior to my entering the Air Force," said Maj. Scott Guidry, U.S. Air Force Band director of operations. "They were respectful, musical, and responsive to the changes and new ideas I brought to the music. It was very rewarding to work with them."

After the sectionals, the students and their coaches put their new techniques to use in a final rehearsal under Guidry's direction.

"The USAF Band welcomes opportunities to fulfill the outreach and recruiting aspects of our mission," said Guidry. "This visit by the ISO Band was a hugely enriching experience for the young musicians, but also for our people who led the master classes."