My name is Matthew Lunsford and I am a senior at Bridgeport High School in Bridgeport, West Virginia. Since I was around five years old, I would go to WVU Football games and I remember watching the Pride of West Virginia Marching Band during half time and thinking that I would love to be a part of it one day. I started playing trumpet in fifth grade and I had grown passionate about music. I joined my middle schools' jazz band, and couldn't wait for the years to come. A few years passed and I was in high school. To say I was thrilled for my first football game and half-time show is an understatement. I finally got to do something I have always wanted to do. I joined my high school's jazz ensemble my Sophomore year, where I now currently serve as lead trumpet, section leader, and Student Vice President. I have been selected to participate in West Virginia's All State Band and Honor Band. Music has been my passion since I can remember. My directors have significantly impacted my life and I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for them. My first band director, Chris Broadwater, passed away recently and it has been a difficult to accept. I am thankful for him in so many ways and will never forget him, because was the very first person to teach me about music. His smile and attitude made the room shine. He always made you laugh and cheer any one up. I learned from some of the best band directors who treated their students like their own children. I strongly believe that teachers and their passion for music is critical for your success. That is why I am going to West Virginia University and majoring in Music Education. It was because of my directors, that believed in every single person, and shared their passion for music, that I am pursuing this career. I want to spread as much joy and love I have with music with other students, in hopes to inspire them, just as my directors had inspired me. Band has not only allowed me to create life-long friends, but also give me a purpose and enjoyment in life. Music has been the best thing for me and once I knew this could be my career, makes it the best job in the world. I can not wait to start this chapter of my life.