Mr. Brian Persinger.
I know that I have mentioned I was a flute player, but have I mentioned I was also the drum captain of the drumline?
Mr. Persinger was our drumline instructor. I was dating a snare player during my sophomore year. He suggested that I try out for the drumline so that we could be together during marching season. Of course, I had to try. Unfortunately, Mr. Persinger refused to teach me. After all, I was one of the top flute players. He didn’t want to distract me from my main instrument. Specifically, marching season is when we would prepare for All-Region/All-Area/All-State bands auditions. However, I was determined. I bought a snare book, some Vic Firth marching sticks, and a practice pad. I skipped lunch every day knowing he came in for the day during my lunch break. I would practice and he would just pass me by not paying attention. I broke him down y’all. A few weeks later, I remember him asking me if I really wanted to learn that bad. I told him yes. So, he officially became my marching snare instructor.
I only took lessons for a few months before drumline auditions. I made the drumline.
My senior year, I became drum captain. That’s me in the middle. Being center snare is an important task. It typically means you’re the strongest player.
Mr. Persinger changed my life. He taught me to persevere and taught me a lot about work ethic. Not only did he teach me to play the snare, but he taught me how to be a leader. He gave me a chance, a lesson that I carry with me today. Everyone deserves a chance. I was struggling with mental health and he probably doesn’t know he saved me. He gave me something to focus on and to perfect. He gave me a purpose.
To this day, we’re Facebook friends. Funny story. When my son was in 8th grade, I posted a picture of the high school band when it was middle school night. He commented on the picture, “My niece is in that band!”
Small world, right? I became friends with his sister and we’re still friends today. His niece and my son went to prom together.
I take every chance I can to remind him what he did for me. He retired this year and that made me feel super old. Regardless, I am proud to have been one of his students.
Filthy Casual for Life 
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