Chester High School showcased the seniors from multiple different activities at a basketball game on February 18th. There are 13 band seniors in total. They are Nick Coffey, Mirra Krieg, Ary Shipley, Josh Copple, Max Blechle, Tia Martinez, Nico DeGuzman, Whitney Sulser, Will Welge, Jaden Lopez, Lincon Schroeder, Toby Gercis, and Tino Rafael.
We interviewed 4 of the 13 band members. They were Nick Coffey, Mirra Krieg, Ary Shipley, and Josh Copple.
The first band member we have is Nick Coffey, who states that his favorite pep band song to play is “Accidentally in Love.” Nick says that if he had to play a different instrument during Pep Band, it would be the saxophone because that’s what he played in grade school. He says that he might continue playing his instrument after graduation and when asked if he had any advice for people wanting to learn how to play a new instrument, he says they need to “just practice and lock in!” Thank you Nick for answering these questions!
Next up, we have Mirra Krieg. Mirra’s favorite pep band songs to play are both “Escape (The Piña Colada Song),” and “I Will Follow Him,” because they are both upbeat and fun to play! Mirra said that if she had to choose a different instrument to play, that it would be the clarinet because she really likes the sound of them. Mirra isn’t sure if she’ll continue playing her specific instrument after graduation, but she will definitely stay involved in music. Mirra’s advice to anyone wanting to learn how to play an instrument is to “be patient with yourself, and enjoy learning how to play. As you learn and practice, it will become easier and more fun!” These are wonderful responses, thank you Mirra!
Now we have Ary Shipley. Ary’s favorite songs to play are “Hey Baby,” and “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.” Ary said if she had to pick a different instrument, that it would be the flute because that was originally what she would’ve picked to play. Ary said that after graduation she will attempt to play in the Chester Muni Band, which is also under the direction of Mr. Colonel, just like Pep Band! Ary’s advice to anyone wanting to join band is to “practice. You will only do your best if you practice.” Ary is also going on the 2025 band trip. The band trip happens every four years, where the band performs at one of the Disney parks, but this year is extra special because due to it being Mr. Colonel’s last trip, band is also adding a cruise ship to the Bahamas this year. Ary states that she’s really excited for the trip, because “it’s a great way to start [her] summer and college life.” Amazing responses, Ary!
Lastly, we have Josh Copple, whose favorite pep band song is “Bad Romance,” by Lady Gaga. Josh’s advice to anyone trying to play a new instrument is to “try hard and never give up!” Josh is also going on the band trip and states that he is very excited! Thank you Josh!
CHS would like to thank all of our band seniors for all of the hard work they put into the music they’ve been playing! We all wish you great luck after graduation, and will miss you all immensely!