This week’s Farmer Focus is sophomore Tien Tran, a player who has been recognized as the 15th best clarinet player in the DFW area.

SNAPSHOTS

Horror or action movies: Action movies

Asian or Mexican cuisine: Asian

Shopping or going to the movies: Going to the movies

Winter or summer: Summer

Eat the same thing for the rest of your life or try something new every day: Try something new every day

ZOOMING IN

Q: Why did you choose the clarinet?

A: “I really don’t remember why I chose clarinet; I think it was because I thought it looked the coolest.”

Q: How different is middle school band to high school band?

A: “Middle school and high school band are very different. There’s so much more depth and complexity that goes into a high school band that isn’t seen.”

Q:How did you prepare for the all region process?

A: “I prepared for this process by learning the music as early as possible, and just having consistent practice to work out small parts of the music. I also planned ahead by making sure I had all the information about the audition as possible.”

Q: What are some tips you learned throughout this process?

A: “The biggest tip I learned throughout this process is that ultimately at the end of the day, it is a game. You’re trying to score as many points as possible, and judges can only score what you play in the room, not how you practiced the day before. Confidence also goes a very long way.”

Q: What drives your passion for music?

A: “I’d say what drives my passion is the people and opportunities that come along with it. We live in an amazing area for music, which comes with awesome opportunities filled with great people everywhere.”

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were the 15th best clarinet player in the DFW area?

A: “I was a little bit shocked because I didn’t have the best audition I could have, but overall I am happy with the result.”

Q: How do you balance your practice time with academics at school?

A: “I balance them by making a pretty clear schedule at the beginning of the week, planning out heavy practice days or heavy academic days. However, the most important part for me to get it done is to not procrastinate.”

Q: What rituals do you plan to keep or change to help you get to the next level next year?

A: “I don’t necessarily have any rituals, however, next year I do feel more confident as I have another year of experience and knowledge with me about auditioning.”

Q: How important is music to you in your life? Do you plan to continue in college?

A: “I’d say music is a pretty important part in my life. As for college, I’m not sure.”

Q: What was the hardest part of the all region process?

A: “The hardest part of the all region process is the time period between auditions. Each practice session makes you closer to your goal performance, however, once you get close to your goal, the mental challenge of auditioning really sets in.”