Band Members Only Kunal Gupta

I scan the room, brightly decorated with an electric guitar, an acoustic guitar, three trumpets, a keyboard, and a karaoke machine. Above it all sits a black and yellow poster bearing the phrase “Band Members Only.” The corner in which the musical instruments lie is where I find most of my free time; it has become a sanctuary of peace, where after a long day at school I can look forward to spending quality time jamming to "Sweet Child O’ Mine" or "Stairway to Heaven." Whether I am improvising with friends or playing the trumpet in my school’s Symphonic Band, I love being a part of the musical community.

My interest in musical instruments first started when I began playing the trumpet way back in the second grade. Ever since then, I have grown into a more profound musician. What first felt like an impossible feat of memory and coordination all those years ago became a daily joy. Now, as I play in the symphonic band every day, I look forward to rejoicing with my fellow trumpeters because we have become a family; they are my best friends and my worst enemies. We laugh and cry, win and lose, try and fail together. As a senior I have grown into a position of trust; I have the opportunity to lead and inspire the trumpet section as...