If you have seen the Strath Haven High School football game, then you have most likely heard freshman Ryan Schofield playing the iconic opening to “Mackins.”

Schofield has been playing the trumpet for five years for elementary and middle school bands, along with the middle school Jazz Band, but this year, he tried something new and played in the Panther Marching Band.

“I have had a lot of fun so far this year playing the trumpet,” Schofield said.

Schofield expressed how five years ago, he chose to play the trumpet and has enjoyed it ever since.

“It’s [the trumpet] one of the louder instruments, and I feel that represents my personality,” Schofield said.

Schofield noted how much he enjoyed marching band this year and discussed what he was most looking forward to in next year’s marching band season. “I think being Section Leader would be pretty cool,” he said.

Schofield explained that he originally heard the “Mackins” opening, practiced it, and then asked marching band director Mr. Nick Pignataro if he could play it at the game. Pignataro agreed and told him to play it during the second kick-off, and the rest is history.

“It’s really really cool to have that honor,” Schofield said.

Schofield said he enjoyed middle school jazz band and is already enrolled in the symphony orchestra. He strives to join other musical ensembles offered at Haven.

“I would love to get involved with the jazz band,” he said.

Schofield is grateful to the opportunities the music program and the people in it have given him.

“I have had a lot of fun so far this year playing the trumpet and everyone has been very kind,” Schofield said. “I look forward to being in the marching band again.”