Can A 14-Year Old Really Be Happy? My Experience And Advice: How The Alto Sax Saved Me
Posted: Tuesday, July 26, 2011
by Fran Larson
http://www.franniesquotes.com/
I can remember walking to high school for the very first time on orientation day with my friends Carol and Nancy. I distinctly remember chatting about what color lipstick would be appropriate. We were a little bit apprehensive because not only were we entering high school, but also it was in a different town with different teens that we did not know. Our rural town did not have a high school, so we were bussed about 6 miles to another town (that actually was a very small town, also).
Finally, the day came for us to attend the new school. The disadvantage we had was not knowing the other teens, whereas they had all attended elementary and middle school together. It was quite a change for me.
One day, my mother said she knew someone who was selling her alto saxophone. Mother said it would be a good idea for me to have some kind of interest. Also, my two older sisters were in the high school band, so it was expected of me. My parents purchased the saxophone and I took lessons. I wouldn’t say I was a star pupil, but sure enough I made it. I was officially in the band.
I loved my alto sax, even though it was hard to lug home each day, along with a whole pile of books. During band, I sat by a boy named Robert. He helped me to relax because he was always goofing around.
The band trips to other schools for the football games were so much fun. That was always the highlight of my week. Friday nights were like magic. Some of the schools were 30 or 40 miles away. After the game, we would stop for hamburgers at some poor unexpected soul’s restaurant. I don’t know if our band leader, Mr. Kelly. called ahead for these meals or not.
The best thing about being in the band is that I got to know other teens. I was very quite and shy and I really think my alto sax saved by life. (Thank you Mom and Dad).
Two years had gone by and I got an unexpected telephone call. It was during the summer. It was the head majorette, Jean. She asked if I would like to be a majorette? (You had to be in the band and play and instrument for at least one year). I was stunned. I would never have “asked” anyone if I could try out to be a majorette and now someone was asking me.
I said “yes” and was just thrilled; as I had always dreamed of twirling a baton and strutting to the lively drum beats and sounds of the band.
All summer I took baton lessons. I practiced and practiced and practiced some more. Jean said I made it. I was happy but frightened and so very shy.
I did OK. My shyness melted when it was half time at the football games and the band began playing. I would proudly strut and my shyness for those few minutes was not present at all.
Now Friday nights were more magical than ever. Friday after school, I would polish my boots and iron my uniform. I could hardly wait for the moment when the drum beats and band would sound and I would be performing.
I tell you this, not to brag but to make a point. My advice to a 14-year-old would be to find something that you are interested in or your talent. Is there something you would just love to do but need a push? Don’t wait for a push. Just do it. If you are shy or afraid, please look deep inside and find what you could be doing. Everyone has some kind of gift. It doesn’t have to be playing a musical instrument. It could be a smile or maybe listening to others or perhaps writing. Find your gift and you will be a happy teen.
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Top-level comments on this article: (2 total)Yes, yes. As soon as kids get a something that they can call their own and DO, they are propelled forward. Great article. Written so that I was with you all the way. Excellent skill and talent.
Bad sax, is better than no sax, at all..........
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