The SHS Band is a welcoming and hard-working community where students support each other and take pride in growing together. Their motto is “From Many, One,” as students come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Students in band learn how to work together to navigate challenging music and shape performances that are both engaging and expressive. Through regular individual practice and shared rehearsal time, they build confidence, strengthen their attention to detail, and collaborate to bring music to life as an ensemble.
“I believe a successful performance is the direct result of a strong and thoughtful rehearsal process. When we approach each day with a growth mindset and a commitment to making every rehearsal better than the one before, we’re able to shape the music into something truly special by the time it’s performed,” shared Mr. Inendino, the band director at Schaumburg High School.
Last Thursday, the Wind Symphony welcomed SHS Buildings and Grounds Manager Mr. Luis Rey Ramos as a guest conductor. He led the ensemble in a spirited run-through of Sleigh Ride as they prepared for their upcoming Winter Concert. The following day, the Wind Symphony participated in their annual Winter Tour, visiting Hanover Highlands, Hale, and Campanelli Elementary Schools.
The ensemble performed for students in grades K–6, showcasing the different instruments in the band and spreading winter cheer throughout the district. Experiences like these highlight how SHS Band students not only grow musically but also share their passion with the wider community.
“As a junior and senior in high school, I was fortunate to have an internship teaching private music lessons to elementary and junior high students. After seeing these students develop a love for music and being a part of that journey, I knew that I wanted to spend my career providing opportunities like that for more students,” said Mr. Inendino.
All four of the bands performed some great literature at this year’s Winter Band Concerts. The Raptor Rides the Whale (Cadet Band) and The Cave You Fear (Concert Band), both used unique timbres to convey vivid imagery through sound.
The Symphonic Band showed growth in learning Alchemy, a challenging work about the centuries-old pursuit of turning base metals into gold. Finally, the Wind Symphony worked on Gustav Holst’s Second Suite in F, one of the most historically important pieces in their repertoire that has inspired musicians and audiences for the past 100 years.
“The most rewarding part about being a band officer is being able to give back and teach such an amazing group of individuals. The band is like my family and I’m grateful to help out an organization that has given me so much over the last four years here at Schaumburg,” said Izzy Flores, a senior at Schaumburg High School.
As the bands look ahead to their next performances, student leaders continue to guide the next generation of musicians. Nic Dragomirov, another band officer, encouraged younger players to set a routine for themselves and to not skip warming up on fundamentals.
“If a certain piece is giving you a lot of trouble and you’re not making a lot of progress, set it aside and work on something else for that day. I think this helps you maintain a healthy relationship with music and decrease stress associated with practicing,” said Dragomirov, also a senior at Schaumburg High School.