As a new addition to Mission Hills high school Cardinal Alliance marching band, Sydney Stebbins (9) is determined to start her freshman year on a high note. 

   “The moment I first walked into the band room, I realized how much of a community it was and how great it was to be part of such a tight group. Symphonic band is unique because we are introduced to something deeper than what is written on a page; we are encouraged to look beyond what the music tells us to do and really create a purpose to our sound,” Stebbins said. 

   In her musical journey, Stebbins has made several achievements; she has consistently maintained a relatively high chair placement throughout middle school, proving that she has excelled in comparison to her peers. Now as a freshman, Stebbins has earned her spot in Mission Hills’ second highest band.

   “Every composer has a reason for writing their music, and there’s a story behind it which makes me feel that passion. It  makes me feel like I have a purpose. When I was younger I could never find any sport or team that fit me, but when I found music it really clicked so I decided to continue throughout school,” Stebbins said. 

   Being in band encourages Stebbins to be her best self, partly due to her band directors, who tell her “one doesn’t have to settle for less than their best,” giving her the necessary tools to be exceptional and step out of her comfort zone.

   “Sydney’s become a really good clarinet player and improved a lot the past few months, her tone has gotten a lot better because she’s worked very hard at perfecting her sound,” Angel De Luna (12) said, the clarinet section leader.

   Stebbins next goal is to try out for wind ensemble and continue marching band throughout her high school years. Band has had an immense influence on her personality and has inspired Stebbins to become more “tuned in” on her life and high school experience.