February Musician of the Month: Josiah Bender

Photos submitted by Bender.

Zoe Boschek

Congratulations to Josiah Bender for being selected as February’s musician of the month! Bender is a senior this year who is the baritone section leader for Synergy Showchoir and is also a singer in A capella. He plays many instruments in the Hamilton Band: tuba for the Wind Symphony and the marching band (as well as being a caption head) and drums in Jazz One! Recently, Bender has won best bass soloist at show choir comps Destination De Pere: Let’s Jam! and Milton: Rock the Rock, and placed third at Monona Grove Silverstage Invitational.

Senior baritone singer Attreya Attili emphasizes that “Josiah is a great collaborator! Whenever he wants to do something, he always wants to include others; he’s such a great influence to newer and older singers. He’s a great addition to the choir program!”

Another congrats to Bender! Read more about him below:

How long have you been in band and show choir and why do you continue to do it?

I've been in band since 5th grade, and show choir since sophomore year. I have always had a strong interest in music and plan to continue it through the rest of my life as well.

What is a favorite memory of yours from Synergy?

My favorite memory from Synergy was when we won Grand Champions two years ago. Even though I didn’t have much impact being on crew, it still felt like something I was a part of and I got to celebrate it with the community around me.

What are your goals for yourself this year musically?

My goal for this year musically is to enrich myself by learning more jazz standards.

Wha are some other activities that you are involved in? What kinds of hobbies do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I’m in drama here at HHS, and I sing for my youth worship team. I like to learn new  instruments in my free time, which as of late, has been the piano.

Who is someone that inspires you musically?

Someone who inspired me was Sam Mauer. He was an amazing euphonium player who graduated in my sophomore year. He inspired me to get better at my instrument and my voice.

What are your post-graduation plans after high school?

I plan on taking a gap year and studying either vocal performance or Musical Theater.