FAMILY MATTERS

The Greenans:

“You always have someone to practise with,” said Chloe, a Grade 12 student and copresident of the band executive council.

“It feels better when you know you did it together… there’s no sibling rivalry there,” Lily (Grade 10) said with a laugh.

The McKennas:

For Kaitlynn, joining the band was another way for her to follow in her brother’s footsteps. “My brother is my role model. Seeing him have so much, enjoying all the trips and enjoying new experiences was a big factor in joining the band.” Kaitlynn, a Grade 8 student, plays the oboe. This is her first year as a member of the band. “Our family has been really supportive of both of us.”

The Moases:

Since first picking up an instrument in Grade 7, Brandon wanted to continue to play music – starting in the band setting.

“I really liked playing the instrument. And my brother was in the band. It was a reason I thought about joining,” said Brandon, who plays the baritone saxophone. Dylan added, “I joined with my friends. I stayed after they left. Now my brother sits right in front of me at the timpani. I like to hit it hard.” For Emilie and Joseph Reilly, playing in the band has meant a place to belong.

“I don’t play sports, this gave me a way to participate in my school,” said Emilie, Grade 11. For Joseph having the opportunity to play the electric bass was a deciding factor. They both agreed it was a way to explore more creative sides of themselves.