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How could freshman Naomi Fosket say no? Not only will she be at this summer’s 2008 Olympic Games
in Beijing, but she also gets to do what she loves best: make music.
You might see her on TV — with all 2,008 Millennium Marching Band members from around the globe.
At Seattle Pacific University, she spends 12–15 hours per week practicing — between Wind Symphony, Jazz Band, and private lessons. She’s dedicated, but never expected this Olympic-sized opportunity. “It’s crazy,” Naomi says. “I can’t believe it.”
Preparing for China: Naomi’s Journal
7/14/08
In about two weeks, I am departing for Beijing — and it’s approaching fast! Now that things are winding down, I really need to start getting prepared.
This past week, there was another rehearsal at the University of Washington with those going from the area. In another two weeks, I will be at a three-day rehearsal before departing. It is during this pre-camp that we will also be marching in the Seattle Torchlight Parade. In preparation for the whole event, I have to get a lot done. I need to memorize about six songs in the next two weeks; get three uniforms; and take care of all of the passport/visa paperwork.
Although, I will be extremely busy getting ready, I am still really looking forward to every aspect of this trip. I get to meet all kinds of people from all over the world, experience a completely different culture, and — it’s the Olympics! In addition to all of this excitement, I have just recently found out that this Olympic Orchestra will be performing in Tiananmen Square. We will be the first non-professional group allowed to perform here! It’s going to be a widely televised event and is truly revolutionary for China.
I am so thrilled about this opportunity and can’t wait to tell you more about it!
Naomi
6/17/08
So it’s 52 days and counting until I depart for China. Things are really starting to come together. I was able to raise all the funds I need in order to go, and that is such a blessing! Since there is such a short time until I leave, I have been memorizing A LOT of music, trying to learn a little Chinese, and also figuring out all of the travel arrangements I need to make.
There are about 200 students from the Seattle area going to Beijing with me, so we have had two rehearsals together and will have one more in a couple of weeks. We are all responsible for ourselves as far as having music memorized and such. Before we leave for China, there will be a three-day pre-rehearsal and we will be marching through the torchlight parade in Seattle.
As plans and itinerary’s are being finalized, I keep getting more and more excited about this trip. I have recently found out what the uniforms are going to look like and that I get to go to an Olympic soccer game while I’m there, so I am pretty stoked. Things are falling together so well, and I feel so blessed to get this opportunity.
Naomi
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