Solo & Ensemble is an event held every year at Deer Creek where students come to perform a solo or ensemble (or sometimes both!) in front of a judge or judges. They’re looking for everything like sound, tuning, technical ability, etc.
Devin has performed in Solo & Ensemble for several year starting in the 7th grade. He’s done both solos and performed with groups. I believe he’s always received a 1 rating, the highest. It’s an honor.
But this year, Devin sat out. He has been preparing something but just wasn’t ready in time. No problem. We won’t push these things. They’re important, but so is performing when you’re prepared enough.
But, Mr. Harris, the 6th grade band instructor, decided Braden and a few other French horn players should perform a short solo. I was shocked! They’ve only been playing their horns for a few months, but Braden was eager to do it. And you know what? He practiced! A lot! I was again shocked. But this is something he seems passionate about. So let’s do this!
He performed on Satuday, April 26, 2025. We were supposed to have soccer games but thankfully those were canceled. We take Braden up to the PAAC but he doesn’t seem nervous at all. And he says he isn’t. I might be more nervous for him! These things always made me feel nauseous.
He goes to the warm up area and before we know it, some friends and their parents show up and they’re warming up and playing through it and before you know it, we’re all in the room behind the judge waiting with our phones ready to record.
Mr Harris starts the music and I’m so nervous. I know he can play this and play it well, but anything can happen when you’re playing with a recording in front of a judge and lots of people. But he nails it! I mean he seriously nails it! The sound is so pure and mature and beautiful. This is the instrument he was meant to play. Thank you Mr. Harris for giving him this chance!
At the end, even the judge sounds shocked – “Very nice!” he says in a low tone. So proud of this boy!