Taft’s Wind Ensemble is going to State! Seven soloists will be performing at the IHSA Solo Competition on Mar. 8. There will be a smaller performance on Mar. 5 for Taft-centered audiences in the Auditorium.

“I love being in band. I think it’s very fun,” said Lily Manella, a senior. She plays the French horn. “I’m excited but I’m also nervous… I practiced and listened to my solo a lot.” 

Solos are nerve-wracking, especially with the amount of preparation you need to put into it. But a competition like this can help with one’s self confidence, and help them create a stronger sense of self.

 “I’m excited to see how I progressed over the past few months,” said Sarai Diaz, a sophomore. She plays the tuba. “I’m excited to see the professionals see me play.” 

In band, putting in hard work and making it pay off can feel very rewarding, but there’s a lot of tension that comes with it, especially having to perform a solo. 

“Band can be very time consuming, but it has the power to leave memories that last forever,” continued Diaz. Just as picking up the skill to learn how to play an instrument in the first place is important, making memories with your friends and enjoying the experience to the fullest makes it all the better.

“I’m nervous but really excited. I’ve been practicing my solo with my sister a lot and just working through it,” said Alison Geraci, a senior. She plays the flute.

“I’m scared! I normally don’t do any solo stuff but I think It’s going to be a good opportunity for me. I’ve been practicing a lot,” said Isabella Clark, a sophomore. She plays both the flute and the piccolo, but will be competing with the flute.

Catch the wind ensemble soloists at the performance at Taft on Mar. 5!