By Ivy Knapp

Music has been a huge part of Madison Mayberry’s life over the years. Currently a sophomore, Madison is a proud member of the Sapulpa High School marching band’s color guard team, but her love for music started young.      

“I’ve been playing piano since I was five years old,” she said. “I also play the flute, which I started back in fifth grade.”

What began as a scheduling mix-up in elementary school turned into a lasting passion.      “Band was an alternative elective in fifth grade, and I ended up getting placed in it,” Madison said. “From there I fell in love with it.”

Balancing her busy schedule takes a lot of determination.                                                                          “I prioritize schoolwork, and when I’m not working on assignments, I’m practicing on my flute or with my flag,” she explained.

Madison is involved in several other activities, including FCCLA, National Honor Society, Performance Theater, and Winter Guard. She also noted math and performance theater are her favorite subjects.

“Ms. Braswell pushes me outside of my comfort zone and makes me better,” she said.

When it comes to performing, it brings joy to Madison.

“The friendships I’ve made and the music pieces I get to play are my favorite parts about being in the band,” she said.

She’s made many memories performing at Friday night games and Saturday competitions, but one experience stands out above the others. That memory was her trip to Tennessee for BOA.                            

“The bus ride was about 24 hours because we got stuck at a gas station for five hours,” she laughed. “Despite getting very little sleep, I had one of my best performances ever, and we made finals.”

Madison credits her piano teacher, Cyndy Ellis, as a major influence in her music journey.                        “She’s so patient, kind, and loving,” Madison said. “She encourages me and supports me in everything I do.”

She also understands the commitment it takes to be a part of the Sapulpa Marching Band.                                      “Most people don’t realize how many hours we put in,” she said. “We’re up early, practicing late, and working hard every single day.”

Those lessons of hard work, accountability, and teamwork are things Madison will carry with her long after graduation. Her goal is to attend college and major in forensic science with a minor in theater.