After motivation struck the summer of her junior year, Senior LaSean Patton earned her spot as the concertmaster of orchestra. Her love for playing throughout her musical career is what pushed her to reach for her goal.

“I really practiced my scales every day. My goal was to be concertmaster, so I was ready when we had our first chair playing test,” Patton said. “I made sure to practice every night and I just hoped for the best.”

The position of concertmaster is the second most significant person in the orchestra after the conductor and is given to the first chair violinist each year. Patton maintains her position by constantly practicing her most challenging scales and pieces such as her solos.

“I usually try to practice at least an hour each day. It depends on how much music I have,” Patton said. “Right now, I have a ton of music so it can be pretty hard to split up my practice time. So I will practice specific things each day that I know I need to work on.”

Besides her daily practice, Patton has involved herself in the pit orchestra, the chamber ensemble and is in both orchestras, concert and symphony. In each activity, Patton helps her peers better themselves as musicians.

The concert orchestra consists each year of new underclassmen interested in pursuing orchestra as a hobby. Patton, along with a few other seniors, gives students inspiration and helps them learn the new music. She enjoys the experience.

“It is fun to get to see all of the freshmen and how they are starting off. It’s fun because I really like to inspire others. Hopefully they will continue their journey in music like I did,” Patton said.

Freshman Georgia Katakis feels that Patton has helped improve her skill level.

“Since LaSean is sitting in the classroom with us, you always have the opportunity to ask an upperclassman for help on some notes you might not understand, or if you are confused with a rhythm,” Katakis said. “If Mr. Zogas is busy, you can just go up to her. She is a big help to the class.”

The violin will always be a special part of Patton’s life, and she is excited for the journey ahead of her.

“It is really fun, though sometimes it can be frustrating, but I really enjoy it a lot.” Patton said. “Playing is just something I really enjoy and love to do.”