Page 12 - 2019 Senior Will

Matt Chalupa ~~
So as those of you know me can probably guess, I’ve put this off for way too long and I’m doing it much later than I ought to. That said, I guess it’s finally time to do it.
It’s been eight years, and eight seasons of marching band. When I first joined I had no idea where marching band would take me, who I would meet through it, or how it would immensely change my life for the better. Since then I’ve marched in four countries, in two bands, with hundreds of different people. I’ve performed with wonderful artists, and made more friends than I ever thought possible. That’s probably the best part of band: the people. With that in mind, I’d like to take some time to acknowledge the people that have made my time in band so enjoyable, and kept me coming back year after year:
To my high school band friends: I know none of you will probably ever read this, but if you do, know that you helped me through high school more than you can ever know. You helped me realize that band is my passion, and one of the places I truly feel at home.
To the trumpet section: thank you for being the best section I could ever ask for. You have been my family for all four years I’ve been here, and even if I haven’t gotten to know all of you as well as I would have liked, you’ve still done so much for me. Whenever I’m having a tough day, even if I don’t say anything, I can always count on a laugh by the end of rehearsal, whether from watching the antics that occur on a regular basis or seeing how you all care for each other. I truly believe we all have each other’s backs, and I trust and love every single one of you. I’ve been honored and privileged this year to work with you as your drill section leader and appreciate everyone’s eagerness to learn and patience as I worked through my first year on field staff. I hope you all come back next year because if you do, this section will be truly awe-inspiring. Heart, Soul, Sound. Live it.
To the drum majors: thank you for leading the band to the great season we’ve had, and for your patience dealing with my horrific time management for equipment duties. You all give 110%, and it’s an inspiration to the band. You are all role models for what drum majors can and should aspire to be.
To this year’s band: thank you for a wonderful senior year. I couldn’t have asked for a better group to perform with one last time. Every one of you, even if I don’t know you personally, deserves congratulations on a fantastic season and a job well done. I’m so proud to have performed with you. Field and Ad staff, congrats on keeping the band running smoothly and setting excellent examples for all of us to follow.
And now comes the hard part: thanking the individuals who have made this such a special journey.
To the trumpet seniors: it seems like yesterday we all sat down on North Campus in the dorms to learn each others’ names and begin bonding as a section. It’s hard to believe that we went from a class of... was it thirteen of us? (It’s hard to remember) to just six. Thank you for continuing your journey with the band to the end. It wouldn’t have been the same without you, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Ethan (or Cricket, whichever you’d prefer) – I’m so glad you’re still here for senior year... you’re probably one of my oldest friends at UD, and I’m glad to know you. Evan – I’m glad I got to know you better this year; sorry if I still mess up your last name on occasion (although it’s good to know I’m not the only one!) Jacob – it’s been great seeing you smile and laugh for four years... it always helps lift my spirits. Jill – it was wonderful working with you on staff this year, and watching you perform in the studio is always a pleasure. I can’t wait to see what you do as a music educator!