Riverside High School students Tracy Robinson and Kyren Bovan were given an opportunity and they made the most of it.
Both Robinson and Bovan signed college band scholarships with Coahoma Community on Friday. Robinson plays the clarinet. Bovan plays the tuba.
The signings for the two was quite an accomplish especially since neither of them had ever played their instruments until last year. Riverside had not had a band program since 1981-1982 school year but revitalized it last year.
“Tracy and Kyren are both very dedicated and hard working and good students,” Riverside band director Zekeius Hibler said.
Said Riverside principal Shawneequa Beal, “This is a big day because it is the first time since the 80s that we have students signing band scholarships. Arts in the school are a big thing. Everybody can’t be in an athletic program. It is great they have other things they can excel in. Being in the band is a way to get a college education paid for.”
Tracy Robinson, a senior, said learning to play the clarinet was difficult but well worth it.
“I love the atmosphere of being a part of the band and having fun with my friends and playing music. I was glad when they started the program because I didn’t really have any other hobbies.”
For Bovan, learning to play the tuba has been a great experience.
“I don’t mind that it is heavy. I like the sound of the instrument and that everybody can hear me,’ Bovan said.
