26th March 2007
Monday
one of the worst things that can happen

Three years ago, I was appointed the role of Section Leader. Three years later, I am appointed the role Section Leader once again. I have not enough words to express my dislike for this post. Seriously, I feel that being an SL is one of the worst things that can happen to anyone in their band life.

Firstly, the SL has to "govern" over the section, being a role model for the rest of the section. In my opinion, full responsibility of the section comes to the person who holds the title of SL. If the section is unable to play the pieces laid out in front of them, the SL gets the whipping. If the section makes a din during band practice, the SL gets the whipping too. Even though that might not happen in NP band, but it is still under the SL's jurisdication.

Secondly, the SL has to be able to perform as well as, if not better than the members of the section. How can the SL coach the section when the SL himself cannot get his parts right? SLs should be able to demonstrate and perform any parts and pieces to show the section different examples of techniques.

Thirdly, the SL must know how to teach efficiently. Why appoint a SL who have problems trying to relay his thoughts and feelings to the section? That SL might as well be replaced with a metronome if all he does is beat time.

Fourthly, the admin matters in the section gets pushed to the SL. This includes the arrangement of parts for each players, the state of the section cupboard, the section library, and the section accessories. SLs are also supposed to liase with the main committee, Student Conductor and Conductor.

Given these four points, how else would you rate this post as an SL other than it being a damned one?

I look forward to being the trumpet SL.

Shit happens so that you know you are still alive.
- Han Yong