Rising senior Erika Katsumoto is the 2018-2019 drum major with Alex Ismael, supervising 120 marching band students.

“Drum major is where you lead the marching band in special events. You mush know what your doing to get this position and know how to communicate with other people,” said Ismael.

“I didn’t know that my teacher would pick me to do drum major. It’s a really big step and a lot of responsibility,” said Katsumoto.

When Katsumoto was in 4th grade she first started to play the flute. However, she didn’t think she would ever become such an incredible Musician. She decided she wanted to be in band in sixth grade. Throughout her time at New Market Middle School, she loved being a part of band while under the direction of Mrs. Kimberly Cramer.

“When I first heard the way Erika played her flute, I couldn’t believe someone this young can have such musical talent. I encouraged her to try stuff beyond her time in school and helped her prepare for auditions,” said Mrs. Cramer.

She liked how nice the people were, and loved the fact that whenever she needed help there was always someone to turn to.

“When I started in the band at Linganore, everyone here felt like a family. We stuck by one another and became one,” said Katsumoto.

Her first All Star marching band competition was when she was in ninth grade, and was held in Philadelphia on Thanksgiving. Katsumoto played to her mom before the parade for feedback on how she was doing.

Her mom used to play the piano and taught Erica how to play and read music.

“When Erika played with her marching band in the Philadelphia parade, I was very proud of how she sounded and how she participated with her band. I could not be a much prouder mother,” said Mrs. Kiyo Katsumoto.

One of her favorite parts of band is the group and how everyone is like family . The instruments that she has played are: piano, flute and the clarinet. The clarinet is one of her favorite instruments to play.

Katsumoto is strongly considering studying music at Hood College. She is also a great swimmer, and has been a member of the varsity swim team for the past three years. She is also secretary of SGA and secretary of the Key Club.

“Erica is a well taught students that loves to play the flute and is very good at what she does, she helps other students out when they have questions. She’s a hard worker, and she that student who doesn’t mind practicing music because it’s something she loves,” said Mr. Kevin Loyd.