by Trina Walker
Kaylee Brown’s journey to band began in Germany. She was in sixth grade when she and her friends decided that playing an instrument would be cool. It is a long way from Germany to Altus, Oklahoma, but her love of band stuck.

Now a senior at AHS, Kaylee plays the clarinet. She says band is more than just learning an instrument. “Band has taught me to never give up and to never doubt yourself. You are more talented than you believe.” Kaylee loves competitions where she can show other schools how awesome they are.

Kaylee’s passion for band stems from her enjoyment of making music. “Watching teachers and students enjoy listening to the band is an awesome feeling that I can’t imagine ever giving up,” she said.

Her love of making music for others to enjoy is one reason she looks up to musician Harry Styles. “He makes music to make people happy, which is why I love being in band.”

Being part of a family is the best thing about band. “I would like to thank my little band family; Jiselle Julian, Bailey Allemeier, and Gunnar Doughty for having fun with me these past few years. Thank you Elysa Miranda for playing our duet so beautifully every time we play it. Thank you Mr. Hastings for not giving up on me. And of course, thank you to my family; my mom, my stepdad, and my little sister, Ashley, for always pushing me to do my very best. I love you!”

Kaylee is particularly inspired by her stepdad for always doing his very best in everything he does. Jenny Phan, is the band member who has left the biggest impression on Kaylee. “Jenny was drum major my sophomore and junior year. She was always very kind and supportive to me and helped me when I needed it,” she said.

Her dream vacation is to go back to her hometown. Kaylee misses Germany and would love to visit again with her family.

Kaylee is in NHS and Link Crew and is president of Leo Club.