Every Wayland fourth grader is offered the opportunity to play an instrument. Some immediately say “no” and others drop it after a few years.

Those who stick with it until high school make up the core of the Wayland High School band program. Senior Patrick Curtin has pursued his musical career throughout his entire high school experience.

Curtin started the alto saxophone in fourth grade by “just kinda filling out a sheet and picking an instrument.” He was encouraged by his father who had always found music important.

“He pushed all of [my siblings] to sign up for music and at least try it for the first couple of years,” says Curtin.

Curtin’s love for the instrument grew quickly. At the end of fourth grade he branched out and began taking private lessons with instructor Philippe Crettien and has taken them ever since. After working with Crettien for nine years, he has become a mentor to Curtin.

“Beyond the musical knowledge, he’s taught me life lessons and how to deal with difficult situations,” said Curtin. “I’ll take his life lessons and morals, and hopefully they’ll help me coming out of high school.”

During his freshmen year, Curtin auditioned for United States Youth Ensemble with which he toured through six European countries. While in Switzerland, people packed the a city square to hear the band play.

“There were just people everywhere,” said Curtin. “It was just a great feeling being able to play for a crowd of people and knowing that you’re the reason that everyone’s there listening.”

Curtin is looking forward to performing in a capstone recital.

“It’s a way of saying thank you to all the people who have helped me with music through out the years,” explained Curtin. “Whether it was a teacher, my family for paying for lessons or friends that have been supportive.”

Curtin will perform a free concert with a band of professional musicians on Monday, May 16th in L1. The concert will start at 7:00 PM and is open to the public.