The very first practice together was the most intimidating experience I've ever had. A group of freshmen, including myself, were waiting in the choir room and then the moment came. We walked through the double doors and the entire West Haven High School band stood and applauded. I thought to myself, “Why are they clapping?” After everyone was seated, our director, Mr. Crabtree, said, "This is your family for the next four years." It wasn't until my senior year of high school that I discovered how much this really meant. I've been in the band for seven years now and I've enjoyed every minute. The band director now, Ms. Marcella, says, “This is YOUR band, get involved!” because there are so many things to get involved in. I thought that band right through school was cool, but there was so much more. There are Band Councils, Ensembles, Pep Bands, Jazz Bands, leadership positions, local performances, and so much more that I missed during my freshman and sophomore years. During my senior year I joined the Band Council, Clarinet Ensemble, and ran for Field Leader and Office Assistant for the Leadership Team. I did not receive the Field Leader position, but I received the Office Assistant position. I was very grateful for this position because to try out for this position, I had to attend 5 meetings, write an essay on why I wanted these positions, and do a 3 minute marching performance. Office Assistant means I am responsible for ensuring all music in use is always well stocked, fill music orders within 24 hours of submission, spend at least one day a week after school or during free time working in the School Library band, assist the section leaders in distributing the music, work to keep the rooms clean and keep rehearsals productive and, in my opinion, the most important responsibility is to set an example for the band to follow. There are 200 members in the band and once someone sees someone messing around and not following the rules, others will follow. The most important thing for me is the band.