Not only is junior Fadi Shalabi a friendly face around school, but also a member of the band that switched from playing the bass clarinet to playing the tuba. Shalabi’s talent is valued among band members and band teacher Mr. Doug Hoover alike.

“Fadi certainly saw a need [in the tuba section] and tried to help fulfill it,” Hoover said. “I’m thrilled with his energy in that.”

A member of Shalabi’s former low woodwind band section, junior Evan Sundermeyer, notes Shalabi’s astounding talent at bass clarinet and hard work and dedication to learn tuba.

“Fadi is about as good as you can get [at bass clarinet] as you can get without ever practicing,” Sundermeyer said. “He was new to playing tuba in marching band last year, and he worked pretty hard at first to get some of the basics down, taking lessons over the summer with Mr. Beazley.”

The challenge for Shalabi in playing the new instrument is not in the finger placement technique, but is rooted in other factors.

“The only real tough part about switching was learning the difference in style between woodwind and brass instruments,” Shalabi said. “Then again, getting used to the enormous amount of weight was a challenge too.”

Shalabi had many motives for switching instruments, one being his admiration for brass instruments. Understanding the trumpet would be harder to learn, he opted for the tuba.

“I have always enjoyed the sound of a brass instrument than that of a woodwind,” Shalabi said. “Plus, the beret the tubas wear is awesome.”

It is no surprise that fashion was a factor for Shalabi in choosing the tuba, as he is normally in spirited attire when the occasion calls for so.

“Fadi’s prone to dressing up as much as he can for anything spirit related,” Sundermeyer said. “He’s always making jokes, mostly through ridiculous voices and faces. But at the same time he encourages others in band to take things serious and try harder.”

Shalabi’s presence is palpable in the band, and his energy is a vibrant part of the character of the band as a whole.
“He has a fresh presence in the band with his personality,” Hoover said. “He sincerely is a nice kid.”

As for Shalabi, being part of the band and making music is an activity he thoroughly enjoys.

“I love being in the school and the feeling of being part of something great,” Shalabi said. “I love having the band perform a wonderful piece and knowing that I was able to contribute a vital part to the performance.”