John Hill ’25: Becoming a Leader

As a drum leader for the band and first chair clarinet, John Hill '25 has not always been so passionate about music. "In my middle school band," he admits, "I wasn't really invested." Over his time at Strake Jesuit, John has transformed from an uninspired musician to one of the outstanding talents at the school. What inspired this change? "I began to fall in love with the band program and music in general because of the teachers [and] students and the passion they exude for music." John specifically credits the enthusiasm of Mr. Sean Burke, Director of Bands, and Mr. Taylor Sharp, Assistant Band Director. 

Most days, John finds time to practice the clarinet during an off-period or after school. "Whenever there's someone practicing in the Parsley Center," says Mr. Burke, "it's most likely John." This dedication has led to accolades. John has twice been named to the All-State Concert Band by the Texas Private School Music Educators Association (TPSMEA). In the early spring, TPSMEA announces selected students, so he hopes to achieve the honor for the third year in a row as a senior. John applies his musical talent to service as well. He runs the student club "Music with a Mission," which arranges performances for the residents of retirement communities around once a month.  

John's dedication extends to the classroom. He often discusses his studies with the same loving enthusiasm he has for music. His theology class awakened in him an appreciation for the writings of C.S. Lewis. "[John's] engagement with the writings of C.S. Lewis clearly show his desire not to simply understand Lewis's theology, but to internalize it with the goal of becoming a more formed disciple," says theology teacher Mr. Jeremy Dunford. Another favorite is the new English elective course, "Big Books." John reports that the class – which reads Fyodor Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov in totality – caused him to become "a fan of Dostoevsky's writing." 

Becoming a better clarinetist, coming to a deeper understanding of theology, and embracing new authors, John's time at Strake Jesuit embodies openness to growth. "Being open to growth is one of the most important aspects of being a musician," says John, "In addition, it is very important in life in general." By taking advantage of the opportunities in front of him, John has made the most of his time in high school. As he reflects on his years at SJ, it is "the Strake Jesuit community as a whole" that stands out the most. John attributes his academic and spiritual growth to the great teachers, role models, and friends here. By stepping into leadership positions in band, advisory, and his club, John has become one of those role models to younger students, passing on his infectious enthusiasm for music and learning. 

What's next for John? Mr. Burke put it this way: "He will change the world for the better one day because he does that for our band program every day."