By Molly Raley
Staff writer
Adjusting to new situations is something most people have to do.
For the music students at Southeastern, or more aptly the trombone and euphonium students, adjusting to a new teacher and a new approach is something they have been very good at, according to Professor Bruce Faske.
For Caleb Sowels, adjusting to a new teacher is a small change among many in his life. Growing up in Pottsboro, Texas, Sowels graduated in the top 15 percent of his class.
In the fall of 2011 he decided to enroll at Southeastern, where he became a member of the Symphonic Band. Sowels plays the trombone, both tener and bass.
According to Sowels music is a big part of his life and something he loves to do.
“Caleb has a natural ability to play the bass trombone, and his work ethic is helping him improve at a fast pace,” said Faske.
Sowels is also a U.S. Marine. He left Southeastern to pursue his military career and decided to come back this semester.
Sowels’ military occupational specialty is Aviation Precision Calibration and Repair Technician.
Being in the marines seems to have a strong effect on not only his character but also his ability to overcome obstacles while staying focused on his work.
After taking an elbow to the mouth while playing football with his friends, Sowels was still able to play his trombone piece.
“He powered through, dusted himself off, and moved on to the next challenge,” said Faske.
“I admire his sense of duty in completing his assignments, and that kind of follow-through is a great life skill to have.”
Being a part of music making is one of many things that Sowels likes most about playing with the Symphonic Band.
“I am one part of many that get to bring the joys or mysteries, excitement or sorrow of music and put on a show,” said Sowels.
Sowels is one of many students involved in the music department at Southeastern. According to Faske all the students are hard-workers and eager to learn.
“It is an exciting time to be here, and I want the larger Southeastern family to see that behind every exciting performance is a group of really great students,” said Faske.