I have been in both jazz band and wind ensemble for the six semesters now; five under the direction of Bob Curry and this semester under Kyle Remnant. Being a non-music major or minor, I was thrilled to find out that I was able to participate in ensembles when coming to EMU. I have played the saxophone since 4th grade, and it has always been something that has brought immense amount of joy into my life. With Bob, the two bands expanded my music taste and knowledge. Each semester in wind ensemble had a specific theme; one year the music we played was all French composers and another semester all female composers, and with each song we chose, Bob could go on for eons about the etymology of each song title, or what the composer’s central desire if life was. Bob has said on occasion “I would say I’m losing my mind, but I’m a musician. It’s been gone for years.” I think most of the music faculty could resonate with this quote, and Bob’s crazed love of music allowed me experience different sounds and vibrations I would not have otherwise explored. Kyle has only been at EMU for 7 months, but his comfortability and rapport with the music department is incredible. Rehearsals are always filled with his cheeky jokes, sly one-liners and tangents that are off topic yet highly entertaining. He also does a great job at tailoring to the band members in front of him. In wind ensemble, there were challenges in numbers, especially in the first month, yet he was quick to pivot and make music despite the attendance. This quote by Kyle sums up this claim nicely: “We’ll do what we can with what we have- which is kind of the motto of this ensemble- until we have more. Which I guess still applies to the motto.” In addition to Kyle’s wit and adaptability, he also shows deep care with each one of the band members. He has frequently asked questions about myself and displayed interests in my life outside of band. I am excited to see where in young and energetic career takes him. Overall, I loved being a part of ensembles here. I am so fortunate to be able to keep playing my instrument in a band even when it is not my main passion or field of study. I also have enjoyed playing with EMU grads, staff, community members and high school students, giving me a chance to meet a sort of folks. Band has always been a collaborative outlet for creation for me, and I am glad that I could keep “wailing my horn” throughout my time in college.