The myriad of tiny dots on the page look intimidating to the eye, but after hours and hours of practicing combined with a large amount of talent, a musician can take those notes and make beautiful music. A composer’s message can be heard and sometimes even felt as the musician interprets the adagios and fortissimos to take those tiny dots and turn them into music.
This summer, sophomore Drue Walker was named an Outstanding Performer at the 2024 Texas State Solo-Ensemble Contest for his piccolo solo. This award that only 2-3% of people win out of 100,000 performers.
“I’ve always enjoyed music and band gave me the opportunity to experience it in a different way,” Walker said. “It also helped that a lot of my friends were doing it as well, but honestly I think I would have done it regardless.”
Most people associate band with what is seen under the Friday night lights or in a parade, but creating music takes a lot of dedication. Learning the trumpet, clarinet or piccolo is a skill that takes years and year to acquire and will never truly be perfected. But band is about the music and so much more.
“In the WHS Band and Color Guard we pride ourselves in developing successful and independent adults,” Band Director Joseph Dittfurth said. “We strive to provide our students with opportunities to grow both musically and as a person while having fun with their friends. Our band hall serves as a home base for a high school experience that deeply involves them in campus culture while setting them up for success after they graduate. Our students travel, perform, and develop a work ethic that is unmatched.”
Walker wasn’t alone in his journey. He credits his friends and support system for his success.
“I see Drue constantly growing every single day,” junior Dulce Silverio said. “He shocked everyone when he came in as a little freshman making all-state. His dedication towards the band was so incredible. He would put 100% into everything he did in the band. He grew as a leader and musician which is very inspiring.”
Walker took a lot of time out of his day to put his dedication into winning this award even though it might have been hard it was worth it at the end of the day.
“I was really surprised to find out that I’d been named an Outstanding Performer,” Walker said. “I was super nervous about the contest before I performed, as well as being anxious about it after, so to find out that I’d not only earned the high rating (superior) but also been named one of the top few was a major shock.”
Considering that Walker has already won such an honor, his career is looking sharper than ever.
“Drue earned this UIL State Recognition at the end of his freshman year which means that he’s got three more years of high school to continue growing and achieving,” Dittfurth said. “What’s more, these experiences are something that he can take with him down whatever path of life he chooses to go down. I’m really excited for him.”
