A Catalyst for Change by Emma

A Catalyst for Change by Emma - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

I am a catalyst. I believe change, when approached intentionally, is a powerful tool used to reshape our flawed world. This mindset carried with me all throughout my high school career, but particularly manifested through the Brunswick High Marching Band.

If I could describe my band program prior to the 2024 season in one word, I would call it “stagnant”. Everything we did- whether it was warm ups or show themes or leadership camps- were predictable and outdated. It was a game, frequently lost to the dynamic bands that surrounded our region. Even when my work ethic electrified during the 2024 season as a Drum Major, I knew it wouldn’t be enough for change. However, the monotony of our program quickly shifted at the arrival of Mr. Caleb Guilbeau. Mr. Guilbeau, also known as “Top G” by his beloved students, is the first Assistant Director of Bands Brunswick High School has ever had. His presence would forever shift the dynamic of our program, and in doing so, sparked my passion for Music Education.

One of the first traits of Mr. Guilbeau that I found inspiring was his unwavering intrinsic motivation. When he arrived at the doors of the band room for the first time as a director, he had a lot of weight to carry. From the unhealthy social dynamics between the concert ensembles to the lack of guidance for leadership, he faced a number of challenges. He should have been overwhelmed.

But he wasn’t.

Instead, Mr. Guilbeau approached the situation with calm determination. He immediately began working with us, piece by piece, fostering an environment built for success. He takes pride in our concert band, which was once considered the inferior ensemble. He advocated for me and my drum major team, providing us with the proper tools to serve our band through music and leadership. He was never afraid to stay late to work with students and always had a back-up plan. He took us in as one big family and didn’t show it when he was stressed. It was this constant effort that led us to place 2nd overall at our region competition, with all superior scores and securing the 1st place woodwind title.

Beyond being a supportive band director, Mr. Guilbeau became the face of a safe environment. His office door is never closed, and his heart is always open to listen to his students. One instance that sticks out to me is when I was sitting on the stool of his office, waiting for the bell to ring. As more and more concert band students flowed through the band doors, not one didn’t stop to tell him hello. If it wasn’t a wave or a smile, it was a pop of the head into his door frame with an enthusiastic, “Yay! Top G is here today!”.

Mr. Guilbeau is a catalyst- he brings change for good and isn’t afraid to believe in the unbelieved. His approach fosters a safe and inclusive environment, one where students are empowered to grow both musically and personally. As a future music educator, I strive to create an environment like the one Mr. Guilbeau cultivated at Brunswick High School.