September Musician of the Month: Jack McCord
Cover image by Roberta Pratt. Additional photos submitted by McCord.
Welcome back to the Musician of the Month series! Our featured musician for this month is Jack McCord! Currently a senior at Hamilton, McCord is one of the drum majors for the Charger Marching Band and plays alto saxophone for the Wind Ensemble. Outside of Hamilton, he is also a member of the UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind Ensemble & Percussion Program (UWAY).
Sophomore Jack Schirz testifies to McCord’s commitment and resilience as he continues leading the band through his recovery from surgery. “Jack is an incredibly inspiring person. He recently had surgery on his arm and was unable to move it for a few weeks. Despite this, he did his best to continue conducting and leading our marching band.”
Read more about Jack McCord below:
How long have you been in band/involved in music and why do you continue to do it?
I’ve been in band since 5th grade, but I’ve always loved music, for as long as I can remember. I continue to do it because I think it’s a great way to connect to others. Music plays such an integral part of our lives, so it gives me perspective.
What are your musical goals this year?
My musical goals are to help foster a great marching band, as well as achieve personal musical excellence.
What was your inspiration to play saxophone/become a drum major?
My inspiration for saxophone was always my love of music and originally hearing “Rhapsody in Blue” in my 3rd grade music. My inspiration for being a drum major was knowing I could help lead a band and be an example to help future members to see how amazing a band can be.
What are other activities that you are involved in outside of band? What are some hobbies that you enjoy in your free time?
My biggest hobby outside of band is fencing; I also love to cook and write.
What is one of your favorite memories from band so far?
MOST of my favorite memories were formed in band. I’ll always cherish the friends I’ve made, whether it was on the field or in the concert setting. I think band has been a great growing opportunity and a place that has fostered lots of laughs over the years.
What are your post-graduation plans? Do you see yourself staying involved in music in the future?
In college I plan on pursuing business and engineering degrees in a pre-law track, but I plan on pursuing music in community ensembles or possibly doing it as a minor. I’m also heavily considering joining the school’s marching band (depending on the school).
