I have always had a love for music; as far back as I can remember, I would use anything as a drum and bang on it till eventually I irritated my parents.

The first instrument I played was a recorder in primary school. I did not take too much interest in that because I always wanted to play the drums.

Middle School is when I got the opportunity to play the alto saxophone and drums. Shortly after coming to Clearwater I also joined the PHC Drum Corps. In M1, I lost interest in the saxophone because I found it difficult to get the right notes, but I still loved the drums.

When I decided to stop playing the sax, I got introduced to the magnificent trumpet! Its shape, colour and definitely its sound just blows people (including myself) away. Just hearing this sweet sound inspired me to want to become a professional trumpet player.

My class and I would practice and practice, we would even have "who can hold the note the longest" contests. I'm not supposed to tell anyone but I did get some additional individual practice - thanks to Mrs. Fraser! At times I would wonder why I am doing all this intense practising. As I was thinking that, Mrs. Fraser "magically" appeared and asked me if I was interested in taking the ABRSM Grade 1 Theory & Practical exams. I accepted Mrs. Fraser's polite offer.

I thought to myself, "Isn't it amazing how things come together - all that practising has finally paid off".

Shortly after that, the real studying kicked in. I was so anxious to study that, during my February holiday, I thought she said we had to practise every day, so my mom drove me to Clearwater each day only to find out I had practice only one day, but had to study every other day on my own. I went to Mrs. Fraser to study almost every day at 3.30.

Sure, I was tired and irritated at times for the physical pain and sweat, but I wanted to make all the time and money worth it. I'm sure if I pass these exams, they will help me get into a good college, and if I don't pass, I'll take it again till I do.

While in transit to Saltus Grammar School to take the test I was very nervous. I told my mom how I was feeling and I wasn't sure if I was ready for the test because I was sick on the last day we had practice with Mrs. Fraser. My mom told me to say a prayer and do the best I could. Those words made me feel more confident. There were lots of people participating. If I pass this test I hope to keep taking the next grades.

My love for music is very strong. I would like to keep playing the trumpet and drums. My parents will be enrolling me in additional drum lessons for the summer, and I hope to be returning to Parsons' drum camp this year, as long as my grades are where they should be for my other subjects.