The AHS symphonic band has been invited to participate in the National Band Association Wind Band Pedagogy Symposium and National Symphonic Band Camp at Lake Braddock Secondary School on Feb. 17th and 18th. This event involves rehearsal labs with nationally recognized clinicians, clinic sessions, master classes and performances.

“This is a unique opportunity for us,” Band Director Andrew Loft said. “This is not something we applied for. We were actually called and asked to participate, possibly due to our reputation. These unique clinicians are from universities and provide a higher interaction for our students. This is a chance to learn more, collaborate, and to expand our craft.”

The symphonic band was chosen as one of the three clinic bands for this event. These students have the chance to interact with other students from different regions along the East Coast.

“I’m excited because I’m the only oboe player in the band,” sophomore Erica Johnson said. “It would be good for me to interact with other people who play the same instrument. We will get to be taught things that we can’t get [taught] in band class.”

“This shows how good our band actually is,” freshman Thomas White said. “This will gives us a chance to get instructions from another director, and to work on our technique.”

“I personally attended this event last year,” Loft said. “It was very interesting and really cool. I’m excited for the students to be able to work with these unique clinicians, and I want to hear the performances from the other students there.”

The event is still in early stages of planning. More information and specific scheduling will be released at a later time.