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Sweat, concentration, hard-work, and saliva flowing three hours a day, everyday. All this dedication and motivation just to hear the roar of the crowd. This isn’t football, this is Mr. Slater’s band class, and Jonas Van Dyke is the player to watch.
Music touches some part of most lives, whether it is listening to CD’s, watching MTV, or enjoying the radio. For Van Dyke music is not just something to listen to or watch, it is life.
“You have to have music; everything has music,” said Van Dyke. “Music can change your feelings, like if you are feeling down music can make you feel good.”
That kind of attitude is something that not only helps Van Dyke play but affects how others around him play or see music.
“Jonas is the man, he’s best player in the symphonic band,” said senior Chris Burtch. “He is a huge leader to the section and channels us along sometimes.”
Van Dyke’s peers, agree that he is a talented musician. But band teacher Allen Slater knows Jonas embodies more than just talent.
“There are two things that a musician should have, one is desire and the second is the ability to play,” said Slater. “Jonas has both.”
Van Dyke’s desire is coupled with an incredible devotion to his music. This not only helps him understand the music he plays, it inspires others.
“Jonas is the most devoted musician I know,” said senior Luke Van Helden. “All of his life revolves around the French horn. He practices instead of watching TV.”
Van Dyke’s talents have helped him participate in more than just band. His love of music and rich talents have let him to go beyond the classroom.
“Jonas has the best attitude,” said junior Jenny Fawcett. “He played Mozart with (the Armoniosa quartet) at a fundraising concert. It was an honor and a pleasure to play with him.”
His positive attitude also helps in the classroom.
“Jonas is a great guy and he also has a good sense of humor,” said Burtch. “He cares about people and takes time to help them out.”
Slater recognizes this attitude and appreciates the effect it has on his class. Van Dyke is both a gifted student, and a powerful example for his peers.
“Jonas brings a desire to the group,” said Slater. “He inspires the group and shows them that they need to invest more of themselves in music too.”
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