Meet Eden, a 17-year-old Mill Creek High School student who has been in the band for a year. Music has always been a big part of her life, as her family is full of musicians. Her dad and brothers were in choir, her mom and younger sister were in band, and her brothers and older sister were in orchestra. Growing up in a musical family inspired Eden to follow her passion for music.

Eden first joined the band in 6th grade, knowing from the start that she wanted to be part of it. “I’ve always loved music,” she says. “It’s something that’s always been in my family, and I knew I wanted to be involved in it.”
She plays trumpet in concert band and mellophone in marching band. Over the years, her love for music has only grown. “I want to be involved in music as much as I can,” Eden shares, showing just how much she enjoys playing and learning.

Although Eden doesn’t have a leadership role yet, she is eager to take on more responsibility. “I’m looking to hold a leadership position to contribute even more to the band,” she says, expressing Ede’s desire to help others and assist the directors.

Balancing band, schoolwork, and other activities can be tough, especially with the busy marching band schedule. “Marching band is a lot of dedication, so balancing is just about being all in,” Eden explains.

Her fall was packed with marching bands, so she didn’t have much time for other activities. However, she stays on top of her schoolwork by using her free time after rehearsals to get things done. “I sacrifice some of my free time to get all my schoolwork done,” she says.

Eden finds it rewarding to see how much the band grows throughout the season. “The last competition is always exciting, seeing how far we’ve come as a band and how much the show has improved,” she says. It’s moments like these that keep her motivated and excited to keep going.

Looking ahead, Eden plans to major in music and wants to become a high school choir director. She says being part of the band has taught her important life skills. “Being part of the band has taught me many life lessons, including teamwork, patience, time management, and dedication,” Eden shares.

To younger students thinking about joining the band, Eden gives this advice: “It’s a lot of work and dedication, but it’s very rewarding in so many aspects. It’s a great place to make friends and have fun. If you want to be a part of a marching band, be prepared to be all in.”

Besides the band, Eden is also in choir, another way she expresses her love for music. Even with her busy schedule, she finds time for other activities that help keep her inspired.

Eden’s journey in the band is just beginning, but with her passion for music and goals for the future, it’s clear that she will continue to make a big impact in the band program and beyond.