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Why Otterbein?
Mel Castells, Flute
As a freshman I was a bit nervous coming to a new school where I didn't know anyone, but Otterbein's band programs have really helped me. As most high school band members know, Band Camp is a time not only for marching, playing and sunblock, but it is also a time to meet new people and make friendships that will last you for the rest of your years at school. Along with meeting new people, the Marching Band offers music education students, and others as well, leadership experience�through section leaders, field commanders and undergraduate staff that will help in years to come. Outside of Marching Band, Otterbein is home to many different ensembles, including Wind Ensemble, Big Band, Symphonic Band, �Jazz Ensemble and a newly founded Indoor Marching Band. Each of these ensembles offers their own unique learning opportunities. For instance, Symphonic Band offers a few select music education students to conduct a piece and run a part of rehearsal.� As a member of�five different ensembles here at Otterbein,�I have many opportunities as a music education student to gather different techniques for rehearsal and classroom experience. Otterbein College's band programs have helped me to round out my education, but also feed the flame of my passion for teaching music.
Molly Morton, Clarinet
Being a music major at Otterbein means you are busy, busy, busy! Right after all of my classes have finished for the day, I go into my band rehearsals, which may seem like the last thing anyone would want to do after an 8-4 day, but rehearsal time is my favorite time of the day. Getting to perform and practice my clarinet with the most talented musicians in this college is an exhilarating feeling. Being a wind player at Otterbein has given me so many opportunities to not only to perform but to become a better student by being associated with faculty that are willing to help me out with any problem I have. I love being a part of the musical family here at Otterbein and being so involved with the musical community!
Eric Frisch, Percussion
As a percussion major at Otterbein, I've had the opportunity to play with ensembles in many different areas, ranging from classical and symphonic literature to pop and jazz styles. This wide field of study, combined with the individual attention that each student receives, is one of the things that sets Otterbein apart. My time here has prepared me to be a more well-rounded musician in the "real world."
Janelle Riddle, Saxophone
When considering my college choices, I was looking a variety of schools - some close to home, some far away from home, some very large and others that were smaller in size. After visiting a few other places, I was able to meet with faculty at Otterbein and participated in the audition day. The whole process gave me such a welcoming feeling that I knew that Otterbein was the right fit for me. The faculty have gone out of their way to make sure I get the help and assistance I need when I need it. I haven't ever felt like "just a number" at Otterbein.
Being a music education major has been great. Yes, it's a busy schedule, and yes, sometimes it can be stressful, but the thing I enjoy is being surrounded by such knowledgable faculty and Getting to train in so many school districts. I have been able to observe and work within a variety of school settings, helping me to really pinpoint what classroom I would like to have as a teacher. Most placements that I have been with always are impressed with how well-rounded Otterbein students are, and how many times Otterbein faculty comes out to the school to observe our experiences.
My private study at Otterbein has always been positive. My teacher makes reasonable goals for me each quarter, yet pushes me to be a better player. He's always got something positive to say at the end of each lesson, as well as some areas I need to work on. I wasn't sure what to expect when I started lessons in college. On an average day I like to get two hours of private practice in as well as ensemble playing time. This is encouraged throughout the department. While students here can get competitive, it's all in a friendly way. Other saxophone majors will chat with each other in the practice room hall, helping each other out with pieces, etc. Otterbein has a family feel to it, especially throughout the music department.
As I look to graduation and reflect on my time here at Otterbein, I know without a doubt that this was the perfect fit for my college career. I have been blessed with many opportunities that I know I wouldn't have had at a larger school. For example, I have been able to get involved and be an officer in some pre-professional organizations. I have also been able to perform in the orchestra pit for Otterbein's theatre department. During my sophomore year, I traveled abroad, representing the college program in Italy. Professors get to know their students and help them succeed.. It has been a better fit than I could have ever imagined.
