Dengler,+Lauren

My goals for the 2012-2013 school year on my instrument are as follows:
 * 1) I would like to increase the tone and sound that I get from my flute in general. I would like to get a book or a couple of flute solos that way I can practice pieces specific to my instrument at home. If I practice solos, then I can increase my tone and quality. Playing concert band pieces helps me as well, but I would really like to get a few solo pieces that I can work on to help me out individually.
 * 2) My second goal does not exactly pertain to this year, but I would like to make SWE next year on the flute. Technically, I can practice and prepare for it this year, because auditions are in the spring. I feel that if I practice more this year than I ever have, then I will have a chance of making it. Also, practicing the solo pieces from my first goal, will help to prepare me for the auditions.
 * 3) My third goal for this school year is to specifically increase my ability to play “runs.” I have realized throughout the years in a couple of our band pieces that none of us seem to play runs particularly well and I would like to change that. By practicing different scales and fingerings, I feel like I may be able to achieve my goal by the end of the school year.

These are good goals for you! Keep up the good work!! Great essay!

How Music Has Shaped My Life Music has shaped my life in a number of ways. I have been involved in band since fifth grade, and playing my flute has become a very important part of my life. By being a member of the band, I have made many friendships throughout the years. While I am not very close with all of my band friends, it is still nice to have that variety of people to talk to. Also, they make the football games more fun because when we cheer with the band, I can always talk to my band friends and joke around with them. Band has also given me the opportunity to learn how to be a better person as well as a better musician. I also use music as a way to escape and express myself. Whenever I am upset or bored, I can play my flute. Also, if I am going through a hard time or it has been a rough day, I put in my headphones and block out everything around me. Music can also be a way to express yourself through the different genres of music that you listen to. Before I joined band, I always hated classical pieces and symphonies. Now, however, I think that they are very relaxing to listen to. I am also always looking for ways to improve my musical abilities. If I cannot play new things, there is no life to my musicianship. All around us we hear music, and it brings happiness and joy to our lives. I can bring myself this happiness as well, if I continue to play my flute. I want to be able to play better, and to play new things, for example, new scales and new pieces. I would like to continue to learn more and play more everyday and become the best musician that I can be. I will always try harder and push myself to accomplish these goals. Music will continue to effect my life every single day.