I have so many beautiful AYWS memories that it feels difficult to choose! But one of my favorites was when we did a clinic at GMEA on John Philips Sousa and played about 13 (I’m approximating here) of his marches. CRAZY. Some AYWS members were used as examples of how people would have danced centuries ago. I remember laying around the conference room with some saxophone friends after we were done, satisfied but also open to never playing another Sousa march in our lives (spoiler: there would be many more for me in my degrees).

An honorary memory is learning how to drive on the Atlanta highway during weekly trips to AYWS. That time trained me well for now living in Chicago : )

My AYWS membership has impacted me so deeply and in so many ways! This group raised my standards for amazing musicianship and ensemble sound. I went into my undergrad with an extremely high bar - always striving to reach the level of excellence that AYWS set before me. The ensemble trained my ear in so many ways, and that in turn has helped lead me to my most treasured musical activities: participating in Dr. Mallory Thompson’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble at Northwestern, and being in a touring saxophone quartet called ~Nois. AYWS truly made me feel more prepared to enter a career in music. Additionally, I made so many connections in the group that I still keep to this day. For instance, a duo I was in a few years ago commissioned a piece by Minoo Dixon (clarinetist my year, *hi Minoo*!) because of our AYWS connection. 

If I had any advice… Don't be afraid to fail! I know it’s easier said than done. If I’ve learned anything from studying to become a professional musician, it’s that failing is inevitable. So before that big audition, solo, or interview - take a big leap and be prepared to pick yourself back up if it doesn’t work out or if you have to switch paths. The most successful musicians I’ve met are not only the ones with the best sound or technique, but the ones who keep pushing to keep their heads afloat in this very difficult career. 

I was at first scared to make the step to join AYWS, not only in the audition but also in meeting new people and taking part in an activity that was entirely new to me. It always felt like everyone else had the ropes down! But especially as a high schooler, it’s okay to make mistakes or not entirely know what to do yet. As long as you can dust yourself off and get back up again, you’re making progress that few other people are even willing to risk!