After playing the flute for six years, senior Aaron Garg decided to enter the 2009 Santa Clara County Band Directors Association Concerto Competition (SCCBDA) on Dec. 2. With his solo piece “Fantaisie Pastorale Hongroise” by Franz Doppler, Garg was able to win and will perform this piece with the SCCBDA Honor Band on Jan. 18.

Along with the help of his accompanist Emily Hsu, who was an alumnus in 2000 and now a professional pianist, Garg was able to wow the panel of six judges at an audition held at Independence High School.

When Garg arrived at the competition, he was optimistic.

“I was feeling pretty good. I mean, we got there pretty early so then I had time to rehearse with my accompanist once,” said Garg. “Then it was pretty much just waiting until it was my turn.”

Although, some people may be a nervous wreck before performing in front of judges, Garg was able to remain calm.

“I wasn’t that nervous since it was a piece that I had done before,” said Garg. “I played it a lot so I knew all I had to do was just go in there and do my thing then I’d be OK.”

Garg had already rehearsed this piece several times, not only for this competition but one during May as well, so he felt completely prepared. With only five people at this year’s audition, Garg saw many familiar faces.

“There were only five people who auditioned and four of them were from this school,” said Garg. “What’s really interesting is that Saratoga High has won this competition for the past few years.”

The moment when Garg received his congratulatory call, his goal became a reality.

“I was really thrilled. I mean, I was obviously hoping for it and I thought I had a pretty good shot at getting it so then I was just waiting for the call,” said Garg. “I had played really well I’d thought. I mean, I definitely didn’t think I could have played it much better. Then they called and I was really happy.”

When other students found out Garg won, they were enthusiastic for his accomplishments.

“Everyone was telling me ‘congratulations’ and I think a lot of people are excited for me too,” said Garg.