Jordyn Blakey

Freshman Connie Zhang plays piccolo for the marching band. She said she started playing in third grade.

How did you get into Wind I?

I auditioned for it last year before school ended, and I played the audition music and, I played my ISSMA pieces from last year. I play two instruments: flute and piccolo. I think the ISSMA pieces showed off my technical skills.

Could you describe what it’s like to be in Wind I?

It’s very intense; walking in you’re like the small minority. Everyone’s just like big sisters and brothers; teachers are not very harsh on you because they know you’re a freshman. I think I like being involved, but it’s also very intense.

Are there any flutists that inspire you?

My private teacher (because) she’s really inspiring, and she’s very nice. She taught me a lot. I think the principal player last year, Colleen, (inspired me). I actually heard her play in a video from last year. I just want to be her when I’m a senior.

How did you feel when you got into Wind I?

I couldn’t believe it. I think I played okay in the audition. I did not expect to get in Wind I because Wind I is just hard. Especially as a freshman, flute is a very popular instrument (so) there might not be a lot of spots for you. When I got the email, I was crazy about it. I was screaming and I was like “Mom, I’m in Wind I!”

Do you compete outside of school?

I started doing ISSMA in seventh grade, and then in eighth grade I got seven gold rankings both in ensembles and solos. I think that’s an achievement: seven in two years. I did all-region band for seventh and eighth grade and Junior All-State for eighth grade. In eighth grade, I got into an all-state solo band. When I was in China, I won some district and national awards both individually and in groups.

What’s your favorite piece to play?

My favorite piece currently is “Andante” by Molique. I like it because it’s a beautiful French piece with a lot of grace notes and sixteenth notes. It’s slightly challenging, but once you master it, it sounds amazing.

When did you start playing flute?

I started playing in third grade when I was eight. I started this early because in China, band starts around third or fourth grade, so I was interested in playing flute, and I just started playing it.

What are your plans for the future?

With my flute playing, I think I’ll do it all four years of high school. It depends on if my college has band. If there’s no band, I think I’ll just continue playing during my free time because it’s a skill; you have to continue it.