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10 Questions with EYO
Will Stroup
About Will :
Hi, I’m Will. I’m 16 years old and attend Southside High School. This is my junior year. I’ve always had a passion for music, beginning in Sixth grade and carrying over through high school. I’m in the Concert and Marching band(s), where I’m principal tuba, section leader, and all that jazz. I attended All-District this past year, and made alternate for All-State. I intend to take my career through college – I’m hoping to attend JSU, as the marching southerners have always been something of an inspiration. I intend to keep doing music for the rest of my life; of that I’m sure.
1. How did your musical career begin?
I took my first step into the world of music in the 6th grade. I tried out on several different instruments, and ultimately found my calling, so to speak, on the Tuba… or Contra for you DCI fanatics. I studied (and played, of course) under Mr. Hal Murphy for my first five years, and owe all that I’ve learned to him.
2. Who are your primary musical influences?
Mr. Murphy – His attitude of ‘Okay, now do it just a little but better’ has had a tremendous influence on my playing (and life as a whole). I’ve never had reason to back down from a piece of music, save for allowing someone else a chance to be heard; I attribute this to him, and thank him for it.
As for not-so-personal influences?
Oystein Baadsvik, Pat Sheridan, any given member of Jacksonville State’s 20J line, so forth and so on.
3. What do you like to listen to when you aren't playing your insturment?
Well, I’ve always been fond of the Symphonic Rock genre. Bands such as Nightwish and Kamelot have had a huge influence on how I look at music. Honestly, I don’t know where I’d be without them.
4. What are your hobbies outside of music?
Writing, Martial Arts, Gaming… and pretty much anything that doesn’t involve a leather-clad ball.
5. What has been your greatest opportunity provided to you because of your musical talent?
[Hopefully] a scholarship to Jacksonville State. I’ve always wanted to be in the Marching Southerners… and If I can do anything about it, I will be.
6. What are your favorite movies or televsion shows?
*Takes a deep breath* … Pirate Master, MXC, Ninja Warrior, Survivor, Wife Swap (pure comedy gold), Mythbusters, How it’s Made, Dirty Jobs, Scarred, Future Weapons, Boot Camp, and pretty much anything that comes on the Military Channel.
7. You can have dinner with any four people living or dead, who would they be?
Jesus Christ– Obvious reasons.
Judas – I’m not a big fan of Drama, but… you know.
Wil Bowling – For some of the comments he would undoubtedly make.
Igor Stravinsky – To be the guy that’s completely out-of-place and doesn’t have any idea what’s going on.
8. What are your plans after high school?
Going to Jacksonville State. I’m not quite certain what I’m going to do as far as a career, though. I’m leaning towards a music major at the moment, but I’ve toyed with English, too. Kind of unsure at the moment, really.
9. Who is your favorite histocial figure?
Jesus. Dur.
Otherwise, Confucius. The man may not have been right, per-say, but he had the right idea.
10. Describe yourself in four words.
Eccentric. Compassionate. Devoted. Religious
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