DIS middle schoolers traveled to Taipei, Taiwan, to perform at the Association for Music in International Schools (AMIS) Asian Honor Band Festival at the Taipei American School (TAS) on March 29. The DIS music program achieved a new milestone as students showcased their musical talents on an international stage. 

With participants from 24 different schools, students collaborated with peers across Asia through a three-day rehearsal. Eighth graders Honglim Jin on clarinet, Esther Kang on flute and Gia Kim on trombone represented DIS. 

Months of preparation and dedication ultimately secured them a place in the selective festival. “I started practicing the music piece months before the submission, going through trials every day and consistently attending extra practices in my personal time,” Jin said. “I didn’t expect to pass, and that’s why I was more nervous about the final performance.”

Band director Mr. Hutchings also emphasized the significance of their accomplishment. “It was the first time DIS students were qualified to participate in the performance,” secondary music teacher Mr. Hutchings said. “To pass the rigorous trials took devotion and hard work since the band isn’t limited to regionals, but a competition among the best students of all in Asia.”

As they refined their ensemble skills, the young musicians worked towards a unified performance of the pieces Choose Joy, Rumba de la Tumba, Letter from Sado, A Time to Dance, Taiwan Folksong, and Things That Never Were. 

The students’ dedication to mastering the challenge led to a sense of pride that carried into their performance. “The concert was very successful, and I think that we did a very good job in playing as we practiced,” Kim said.

The same sentiment resonated with students, teachers and music conductors alike. “Our students received a lot of compliments from guest conductors and supervisors after the event,” Mr. Hutchings said. “Since there weren’t a lot of students from our school compared to others, the recognition meant even more.”

Beyond musical growth, the festival allowed students to form friendships and connections with others from diverse cultural backgrounds. “I got to talk and interact with a lot of different students from other schools and nationalities during the three-day practices,” Jin said. “I managed to further develop the relationships after the event through social media as well.”

Outside of rehearsals, the experience extended beyond music into cultural exploration and relaxation. “Outside the rehearsals and practices, we had an entertaining time in the Taipei night market,” director Mr. Hutchings said. “There were plenty of delicious foods and entertainment which relieved the pressure and stress of the students from the daytime practices.” 

The experience also featured a meaningful reunion with former secondary science teacher Mr. Cameron, who now teaches at TAS. “Another memorable moment was meeting Mr. Cameron and his family in Taiwan. We had dim sum together and played some games, which made the trip even more special,” Jin said.

Beyond the performance itself, the experience allowed students to grow as musicians, build meaningful relationships and gain valuable international experience. “Hearing firsthand about their experience making music and forming friendships with peers from all over Asia will give you the best perspective on why students love coming back year after year,” AMIS Executive director Highfill said.