Many 8th grade students moving up to high school band must undergo a unique transition, moving from top to bottom. As one such newcomer, freshman band member Matt Adams plays the snare drum to pursue his love of performing.

Already having accomplished elementary choir, Adams decided to try something new. Since he was young, the freshman claims to have always appreciated performing.

“I’ve always loved to perform music for people’s enjoyment,” Adams said. “As I took lessons, I progressed quickly and in seventh grade I joined band hoping to expand my knowledge of music.”

Along with music, Adams must balance his life and schoolwork. Band director Michael Ogdon recognizes his devotion.

“Matt is a good worker,” Ogdon said. “His hard work and dedication show in his work. He is the only freshman in the percussion section and it makes him a diligent worker.”

With his persistence in music, most would not be surprised that he also comes from a musical background. His grandparents, uncles, father and mother are or were all involved in music in some way, he says.

Following in the footsteps of percussionist Sydney Carlson, ’11, Adams pushes through pressure and trials coming his way. Adams, apprentice to the junior, gleans from the example she sets.

“He has improved so much,” Carlson said. “His dedication to music is amazing and he has worked so hard this year and it shows in his playing. When I graduate, I am confident that he will hold the lead snare position well; he really deserves it after all his hard work.”

Despite changing directors and dealing with being an underclassman, Matt keeps his commitment to the band by enduring the changes and using them to make himself stronger.

“I stay in band because I enjoy making music,” Adams said. “I also consider band as my way to worship God. I play not to show people what I can do, but as a testimony of God’s gifts in my life.”

For Adams, the most rewarding aspect of the class is the audience.

“My favorite part of band is hearing people applauding after a performance,” Adams said. “There is no greater feeling than hearing people clapping and knowing you did a great job. I also like to see my dad’s face light up when he hears my part and knows I did it right.”

A new addition to the music department, Cameron Yasserman serves as the percussion instructor. This position allows the band to focus more specialized attention to the percussion section.

“Having a teacher for just drum corps is awesome,” Adams said. “Mr. Yasserman is a great and patient teacher. Having a drum instructor sets the drum corps apart from the rest of the band. We are able to play so many cool cadences because of his direction.”

Although many dread the marching season with the big hats, the heavy coats and the tedious hours spent both practicing and in the actual parade, Adams is one of the few who enjoys that time of year.

“I look forward to marching season,” Adams said. “It is very hard and painful work, but when I see people I do not even know cheering me on and enjoying our music, it gives me a very rewarding feeling.”

Already having experience in both choir and band, Adams says he is ready to improve and expand his musicianship to benefit himself and the band for years to come.

The last marching band performance will be in the Fresno Veterans Day Parade in downtown Fresno, Nov. 11. Step-off time for the campus band will be near 11:15 a.m. They will be lining up near Kern and P Streets. The band is the lead band for the second tier of the parade, just behind congressman Jim Costa.

For more information on band, e-mail Ogdon and visit the Oct. 20 article, Selma competition challenges small band.