Raising Musicians in a City Where Soul Lives: FPD’s District Honor Band Experience
For students here at First Presbyterian Day School, being selected for the Georgia Music Educators Association District Honor Band is a meaningful milestone that reflects not only individual achievement, but also the strength of a band program rooted in discipline, creativity, and community, shaped within Macon, a city where soul has long lived through music. This year, FPD student musicians Oliver Hunt (alto saxophone), Caitlyn Walthall (French horn), and Sophia Baker (trombone) earned that distinction, representing both their school and the continued growth of the FPD band program.
To better understand what this experience meant, we sat down with several FPD student musicians to talk about what they learned, how it shaped their goals, and why District Honor Band continues to matter in their musical journeys. When asked what rehearsals revealed about music or about themselves, Oliver shared that the experience brought clarity and perspective. His biggest takeaway was not a technical skill, but a reminder of purpose.
“The main point of music is to enjoy doing it,” Oliver explained. “God created it for praise to Him and for our enjoyment.”
That perspective became especially clear during rehearsals alongside students from across Georgia. Returning to District Honor Band over the years has continued to push him through healthy competition and steady growth.
“Making District Honor Band year after year has pushed me to keep growing as competition rises and my skills develop,” he said.
That same theme of growth showed up in Caitlyn’s reflection, though in a slightly different way. She explained that rehearsals reinforced a lesson she is learning both in music and in life.
“Things that feel difficult at first often become much easier with practice and time,” Caitlyn shared.
Watching progress unfold helped her realize that consistency matters more than perfection, a mindset that is nurtured through the FPD band program. Playing in a larger ensemble also gave her new clarity and focus as a musician.
“Playing in a larger, more complete band helped me focus and grow as a French horn player,” she said.
For Sophia, rehearsals revealed how much intentionality music requires. She shared that different styles of music demand different approaches, and that learning this changed how she prepares.
“Different types of music require different approaches, and learning that changed how I prepare,” Sophia explained.
That realization pushed her to think more deeply about preparation, not just for auditions, but every time she plays, whether in rehearsal on campus or in performance settings like District Honor Band.
When the conversation turned toward how District Honor Band might influence their goals moving forward, all three students pointed to higher standards for themselves. For Oliver, the experience continues to motivate growth.
“Being selected is always a blessing,” Oliver said. “The conferences are fun, but they also set a clear standard for improvement.”
Caitlyn spoke about refining her craft and focusing on technique, while also valuing the opportunity to connect with other musicians who share her instrument and her passion. Sophia described a shift in mindset that will shape her long after the experience ends.
“Honor Band challenged me to strive for excellence all the time, not just when I have an audition,” Sophia said. “It’s an opportunity to play at a high level with people who are just as passionate about music as I am.”
Together, their reflections paint a clear picture of what District Honor Band represents for students at First Presbyterian Day School. It is not simply an achievement, but a formative experience shaped by joy, discipline, faith, and excellence. In a city where music has always mattered, our students continue to grow as musicians and individuals, developing their own voices while carrying forward a tradition of creativity and purpose.
We are grateful for the leadership of Mr. Jonathan Baker, whose dedication to the FPD band program continues to challenge and encourage our students to pursue excellence, grow in confidence, and use their talents well.