For the first time in Page history, Antonia Muskat, a student from Page High School, will have the unique opportunity to attend the Western International Band Clinic’s International Honor Band held in Seattle in November. Muskat will be the only music ambassador from Arizona chosen to go to the honor band.

Muskat is the first principal clarinet in the Page High School honor band and a drum major student conductor. Muskat, a dedicated clarinet player, was introduced to the WIBC by Johnson. Johnson helped her audition by recording three short pieces of music that was provided by WIBC: Danny Boy, a chromatic scale and an E2 song.  Johnson recognized Muskat’s commitment to her craft and how she’d shown leadership during practice sessions. She was chosen to sit the fourth chair in one of five bands that will be arranged by the WIBC. She will be introduced to international conductors and composers, such as Dr. Ralph Hultgren from Australia. Muskat will also have two days to learn how to play wind band literature with the entire international honor band.

Muskat found her inspiration and commitment from her mother and grandmother who also played the clarinet.

“I’ve been playing the clarinet since sixth grade,” Muskat said. “I take after my mom and grandma who played in high school then went on to play in college.”

Having a musical history in her family is the main reason she gives for choosing to pursue a college degree in music education.

Muskat is still getting used to the idea of going to Seattle.

“My family is excited. We have always had music in our lives. My mother, Michelle Muskat, is really excited about this. Maybe not the paying for it part but she is happy.  My grandmother passed away but I know she is smiling down at me right now.”

Muskat says her biggest inspirations are Kevin Schadel, her freshman band teacher,  and her mom.

“When I couldn’t get the notes I went to her for help and she really supported me,” she said.

“I wouldn’t be going if he didn’t introduce the opportunity, so kudos to him. I am grateful.”  

Johnson who attended the WIBC when he was in high school says he hopes Muskat’s experience at the clinic will inspire more of his students to commit to their own music.
“Sometimes opportunity [to go further in band] is hard to come by in a small town,” he said. “When I got here I noticed a lot [of turnover] in the music department and the kids were hurt when the turnover kept letting them down. These kids were like, ‘why should we bother’. I knew there was work to do. I don’t intend to go anywhere.”

Johnson expresses his pride in Muskat’s commitment to her music and hopes participating in the International Honor Band will open doors for scholarships. “Going to this will make her much more of an asset to bring that experience back to the high school.” Johnson happily adds, “Antonia would make an amazing band director; she has the patience and the determination.”

Muskat tells her peers, “Anybody who has the guts to try and puts in the hard work can do this. You just have to believe in yourself.”