I sat down with Kieran Loehr ’16, a student who many feel represents the spirit and energy that we try to emulate in our IHS music programs. He is the first chair in the IHS Concert Band’s alto saxophone section, and is also the first chair for his instrument in the IHS Jazz Band. His excellent performance at NYSSMA (the official New York State music competition) has resulted in his acceptance to the All County Band in High School two times, being the first chair for alto saxophone in Area All State (another honor band), and even making it into New York’s most selective band, Conference All State. I asked him a few questions about being a member of band and of his personal musical accomplishments.
Veda Chickermane ‘19: To start, how long have you been playing the saxophone?
Kieran Loehr ‘16: I started playing saxophone during third grade at the Montessori School. I guess that means I’ve been playing for a little over eight years now.
VC: What inspired you to choose saxophone as an instrument? How has it shaped your life?
KL: I think I first heard the saxophone in kindergarten when I was listening to some jazz with my mom. Playing the saxophone has impacted me in several ways, by not only making me a more musical and artistic person, but introducing me to some of the most amazing people. I love going to band everyday, and through just the high school I joined several different groups like the Pit Orchestra, Pep Band, Sax Quartet, and Jazz Band.
VC: When do you have time to practice? What is the key to balancing schoolwork, other extracurricular activities and your music?
KL: I practice every now and then after school, but mainly during the weekends. Practicing isn’t imperative for success in school, so to make sure I get time to practice I generally do it early in the day, before I feel the pressure of all my other commitments.
VC: What is some advice that you have for the incoming freshmen in band? What are the keys to being a successful and productive member of band?
KL: Band is definitely a great family. Coming into high school can honestly be tricky, and even after five weeks you may not have quite found your group yet, but my main advice is to reach out. Everyone in band wants to be there, and wants you to be there too. While the people in band may not be your best friends, whoever you manage to reach out to will reach back, and help make you a successful member.
VC: Who are some people who have influenced your musicality?
KL: First and foremost it would be my music teachers. Nicki Zawel, Mike Treat, and Joe Salzano are just a few of the many music teachers who have taught me a lot. One of the most influential lessons I have learned from them is that to become a great musician you have to listen to the great musicians, so I would also say that some professional saxophonists like Sonny Stitt, Steven Mauk, and especially Charlie Parker have had a big influence on my musicality.
VC: Do your skills as a player and a member of band have an impact in your everyday life?
KL: Definitely. From singing to pop culture to tapping drum beats with my hands, the rhythmic lessons from the saxophone as well as those taught in our music education classes are everywhere.
VC: I heard you got into Conference All State, easily the most selective band for high-school students in New York State. What was the process of getting in like for you, and what are your feelings about it?
KL: I am really excited to be a part of the Conference All State, which takes place during the first week of December. Getting in took quite a bit of work, and was extremely nerve-wracking. Right around AP testing, I had to practice almost every day to prepare a solo and get it into amazing condition. Also, for Conference All State auditions, you have to have an accompanist, so I had to work with an accompanist during two weekends before the audition so we could figure out good communication and musicality. I barely remember the actual audition, but I do remember practically shaking before I went in. No matter how many times you audition, you still get nervous.
VC: What are your plans with music once you graduate? Will you continue playing?
KL: No matter what I do with my life I am sure that I will keep playing saxophone. I will hopefully go to college next year, and while I don’t think I will major in music, I definitely will audition for any small bands or ensembles available.