The Fine-Tuning of Music

Sheng-Ting Yang

Prepared but anxious, the Dalat International School band arrived for their first massed-band rehearsal in the International School of Bangkok (ISB). For the past two months, these band students practiced heartily for the eventual need to perform heart-warming music to respected audiences.

“The massed-band practices were so tiring; however, the results were worth it,” Jonathan Park said about the preparation. 

Early Friday morning, 11 September, the Dalat band students, along with their chaperons, entered the International School of Bangkok Music stadium. Five other international schools gathered to practice with a renowned music director, Dr. Erin Bodnar. Every individual was energized with excitement and focus. Each section of instruments was specifically guided by Dr. Bodnar to remove any errors.

“Only when every band player forgets about the assumption that they are the best that is when a music group show’s its greatest potential,” Dr. Bodnar noted.

Five music pieces were practiced during that day. Each piece was executed with complexity. For eight hours, the Dalat band students practiced vigorously to improve their skills. 

But what stood out about DIS players compared to the rest?

As Bodnar said, “I could tell which students were from Dalat, as those are the ones who seem to know most about what they're doing.”

 Every piece was fine-tuned to perfection as the students executed each note attentively. As hours passed, the once incompatible schools became one with excellence. Every player in the massed-band had a significant role. No mistakes were acceptable, and it was mandatory for every solo moment to be played elegantly. As the day passed, the students were exhausted. Yet, their hard work resulted in incredible results.