It’s 3:30 on a Tuesday afternoon. The UC High Marching Band is still on the upper field, working hard to learn new sets for their upcoming competition. They have a long two hours left of rehearsal. But their hard work is worth it, thanks to New Band Director Cameron Brown.
Brown has been openly welcomed to UC High by staff and students alike. “I’m really happy and excited to be here. The students have all been so welcoming. I can’t wait to see what we do together,” said Brown.
Before Brown came to UC High, he worked at Hoover High for four years. According to the UC High Music Department website, while at Hoover, he was able to start up the Red Regiment. This was the first marching band Hoover had seen in 30 years (uchsmusic.com).
Brown has high hopes and expectations for the students involved in the music program. He plans to improve music at UC High by allowing students to gain self-discipline, expanding the program, and making music fun for the students.
The arrival of Brown has allowed UC High to bring back a string orchestra. “I’m really happy to see our school get the orchestra back. I hate seeing music programs cut, [and] it is great to see them come back. Every high school should have an orchestra, and hopefully the younger generation of students will see that,” said Brown.
Brown has always had a love for music. “When I was introduced to music in fifth grade I wanted to be a drummer, but my dad made me play a ‘real’ instrument, so I played trumpet for two years until I got a drum set. I played both drums and trumpet well, so I continued to play both. I have known I wanted to be a music teacher since high school,” he said.
Outside of school, Brown has many hobbies. “I’m always on the music scene,” Brown said. “I like to see concerts around town, and I follow sports. It’s music, sports, and movies.” Brown likes to use these references as a way to connect with students and relate music to everyday life.
Students have been enjoying Brown’s teaching style since practice began. “He is such a motivating and exciting person. He’s so interesting because he looks and talks just like Jack Black. It’s kind of like School of Rock only band-wise,” said Junior Fernando Espinoza.
Brown hopes that his students will be more focused and committed to the music program. “I wish there was a little more focus and commitment from the students. They are so highly skilled here that if there was just a bit more commitment to music, we could become a power house overnight,” said Brown. Hopefully, this year will be a stepping-stone for the UC High music program’s future success.