I’m a sophomore this year, and I’m a clarinet player in wind ensemble. The thing is, I’m not good. There are many better players than me. The only reason I got in was because someone quit and out band teacher needed a replacement. I used to enjoy it more but I think I’ve lost interest in band, and I never practice anymore. We just had our band midterms which will decide who gets in next year and I don’t think I did that well. I’ve heard there are many good freshman this year and 2 great players in symphonic band. I’m considering quitting now. If I don’t do band I will be able to do honors art, which I have a passion for. I take art classes outside of school and I want to be an architect. I’m only worried about how quitting will affect the way colleges perceive me. Will they really care if I quit wind ensemble junior year?
My D played softball through sophomore year and had played travel ball for years. She simply lost interest. Instead she took a photography classs and loved it. One year later she won a photography contest and she was even paid to photograph some local events. She’s at UC Berkeley and still taking photos for fun.
My advice: follow your interests and passions.
If you do not enjoy being in the band, you should be spending that time on art or something else that you think you may be interested and want to try. It will not hurt you in the college process.
I agree with the above advice. Finish out the year, because quitting right in the middle can cause problems for people who do enjoy band, which isn’t cool, but if you don’t enjoy it, don’t return next year.
okay thanks for the responses!
Finish the year in band - that’s not quitting - and take Honors Art next year. Have fun! 