Reynolds High Clarinetist Takes Center Stage

"It was like watching a movie of one of my goals from a young age unfold from the outside," said Aaron.

By Stacia Harris
BCS Communications

An A.C. Reynolds High School Junior has been recognized as one of the best in the nation for his musical skills.

Clarinetist Aaron Lipsky was among dozens of high schoolers across the country to apply for the Marine Band’s 2020 Concerto Competition. Aaron was chosen to be in the final eight to perform for a panel of judges this weekend in Washington, D.C. Up for grabs? Bragging rights and a $2,500 scholarship from the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.

"I had a brief rehearsal with both GySgt. Russel Wilson (my pianist) and MGySgt. Rick Vare (my assigned mentor) in the hall where I performed the next day," said Aaron. "To have the experience to work with and connect with both GySgt. Wilson and MGySgt. Vare was very exciting because we all thought of new ideas I could implement in my performance to make it better!"

Aaron placed first this weekend! Not only did he receive the college scholarship but he’ll showcase his skills and represent 'Rocket Country' one more time when he performs as a soloist along with the Marine Band in April, also in Washington, D.C.

"It was like watching a movie of one of my goals from a young age unfold from the outside," said Aaron. "When I was in 7th-grade and had just barely started playing clarinet, I went with my family to hear the Marine Band play at Mars Hill. It was amazing. I didn’t know a band could sound like that. It became a goal of mine to cross paths with them in the future, and now I have!”

All eight finalists' performances were streamed live and may be viewed here: www.youtube.com/usmarineband.

Photos Courtesy: SSgt. Chase Baran/ Communication Strategist/ "The President's Own"/ United States Marine Band

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