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    Marine Forces Reserve Band Marines Perform in Texas

    Marine Forces Reserve Band Performs at the State Fair of Texas

    Photo By Sgt. Webster Rison | U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Peyton Scott receives a helping hand while the Marine...... read more read more

    FORT WORTH, TEXAS, UNITED STATES

    10.21.2022

    Story by Capt. Obakai Grandisson 

    8th Marine Corps District

    ______
    Hometown: LaBelle, FL
    MOS: 5524 MARINE MUSICIAN
    ______
    Why did you choose to join the Marine Corps?

    “My Initial interest was aviation. I come from a background of pride and sports. The recruiters sold me on flying opportunities available in the Marine Corps. Recruiters informed me I could play music in the meantime while completing a degree. I recently obtained a Bachelor of Science degree on 15 October 2022 in interdisciplinary studies from Liberty University.”
    ______
    What do you contribute to your success in becoming a Marine Musician?

    “My natural, high-pace worth ethic. I also directly focus on key areas.”
    ______
    What is a career highlight during your time in the Marine Corps?

    “One highlight was returning to University of Central Florida during a half time show to perform on the field versus viewing the game from the stands as a former student. Another highlight was performing in Baton Rouge for a 4th of July Celebration.”
    ______
    Why did you want to be a musician?

    “I came from a theater background, and the same family member who introduced me to Mixed Martial Arts and wrestling introduced me to Music.”
    ______
    What challenges did you have in becoming a musician?

    “One of my challenges was biting off more than I could chew. As a civilian I had to learn 30 songs in two weeks. In the military, going through the Naval School of Music was a challenge because I was learning at a professional level.”
    ______
    How did you overcome these challenges?

    “Work ethic and being able to focus of effort on practicing 40 hours/week at the Naval School of music.”

    ______
    What instruments do you play?

    “Both acoustic and electric guitar”
    ______
    What is your favorite song to play?

    “’Carry On My Wayward Son’ by Kansas”
    ______
    What type of events are your favorite to perform at?

    “Anything they can perform rock music such as a 4th of July celebration or state fair. Carefree, high-energy atmosphere are the best.”
    ______
    In regards to the 2022 Texas State Fair, what this your first performance in Texas?

    “No. My first performance was at Naval Air Station Fort Worth for a ceremonial band for a local change of command.”
    ______
    What this your first performance at the Texas State Fair?

    “No. Played in 2021 and first performance was a rock band concert.”
    ______
    What were the reasons you chose to be a Marine Musician?

    “I came from a diverse background. One of my first jobs was working as Scooby Doo at Florida’s Universal studio. I also owned and operated his own Glass repair company, was a photographer and a salesman. Finally, I was the youngest marketing director for a franchise 500 company at 23 years old. Being a Marine is dynamic, unique opportunity to improvise and explore creative freedoms. It’s different every day. Being a Marine Musician allows you to do a lot of different things and have stability. Finally, I recently was awarded NCO of the quarter at Headquarters battalion at MARFORES.

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 10.21.2022
    Date Posted: 01.05.2023 10:49
    Story ID: 434804
    Location: FORT WORTH, TEXAS, US

    Web Views: 73
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN