ARTIST OF THE WEEK: Kaelyn Toland

Kaelyn+Toland+is+a+top+saxophone+player+for+Mr.+Sachse.

Brandon Buss

Kaelyn Toland is a top saxophone player for Mr. Sachse.

Bellwood-Antis senior Kaelyn Toland is this week’s Artist of the Week.

Kaelyn performs in the BAHS band. She plays the Alto and Tenor saxophones. Kaelyn has been creating music since 6th grade, 7 years! Her intermediate school in Galloway, Ohio, sparked her love for music, leading her to join the BAHS band when she transferred.

Of all her music, Kaelyn is most proud of the jazz band’s performance of the Sesame Street theme last year. She is currently working on various Christmas pieces for the first concert of this year.

According to Kaelyn, “My favorite aspect about these pieces is that it feels like the start to the holiday season.”

Band Director Mr. Patrick Sachse admires Kaelyn for her willingness to get involved.

“Kaelyn has been a dedicated member of the band since moving here from Ohio,” he said. “I appreciate how she signs up for every possible playing opportunity. She has also been a great helper with younger marching band students. She will be missed next year!”

Kaelyn said she draws her inspiration from a special family member, among others.

“I have always been inspired by my father, who played trumpet, and Branford Marsalis, who I saw perform when I was in 7th grade,” she said.

Her favorite jazz band memory is playing in concerts last year with her sister and friends.