Vivek Joshi is a senior this year and a percussionist in the Wind Symphony. Throughout the course of his high school career he has received several honors, including being accepted into the Iowa All-State Band last fall and other honor bands.

Q: When did you become involved with the band program?

A: I started band later than most others in the second semester of eighth grade.

Q: What is your favorite thing about being in band?

A: I really enjoy spending time with the percussion section while also being able to engage in high level band repertoire.

Q: What do you feel is the most challenging aspect of being a percussionist?

A: The most challenging aspect is definitely having to be able to play many different instruments, all of which require different techniques to play. Also, having to move between instruments during pieces can be challenging. For example, during our last concert, I had to run halfway around the stage in under four measures to cover a part.

Q: What was the All-State audition process like?

A: The All-State audition process was really demanding, especially because I had to learn five etudes to audition as a percussionist. Although I made a few mistakes during my audition, my hard work paid off and I was really happy with the end result.

Q: What accomplishments are you most proud of?

A: Making All-State on percussion is my greatest accomplishment as a percussionist. Others include making both Iowa and UNI Honor Bands as well as managing to have a four-hour conversation with Mr. Anderson during the car ride up to All-State.

Q: Do plan on continuing this activity in college?

A: I do, and I’m really excited to see what opportunities the future holds.