Page 12 - Info Magazine nr 16 february march 2021

An Interview with a Class Band Student!

Name: Rapolas Balsys
Instrument: Trumpet
Age: 13 years
School: Juodšiliai “Šilas” gymnasium
Country: Lithuania

When did you start playing the trumpet? What year are you in?
I started to play the trumpet in the second class, I was eight years old. Now I am playing for
already six years.

Why did you choose the trumpet?
I choose the trumpet because my godfather is professional trumpet player and teacher, and I
really wanted to learn to play the trumpet.

Do you play another instrument?
I also play the violin for seven years and ukulele, guitar and tuba.

What do you like about the class band?
I like to play in the Class Band because my friends are also playing in the Class Band and this is
funny and amazing.

Do you play/study at home and if so, how often?
Usually we leave the instruments at school. Now during quarantine I practice two times a week
at home.

Do you sometimes play with others outside of class?
Yes, sometimes I play with my dad’s ensemble at the music school.

Are there other people in your house who sing or play an instrument?
My dad is a clarinet, saxophone and Class Band teacher. My mom is piano teacher. My sister
also plays violin and flute in the Class Band. Sometimes I play together with my dad and sister
some pieces from the Essentiel Elements book.

What kind of music do you like?
I like blues and rock’n’roll.

Can you play this music with your trumpet alone?
Yes, I can play this music with my trumpet.

What do you think of the lessons?
I think my dad is a wonderful teacher.

What else would you like to do in the Class Band?
I would like to play the tuba but this instrument is very expensive and our school does not have
it yet.