From a young age, senior Ben Betts has been an avid musician and performer. His main activities include playing the trombone and singing, but has also learned the guitar and piano. "I started singing when I was in something like first grade, and joined band when I was in fourth grade," Betts said. Ever since he was a kid, Betts knew he wanted to make music like his dad, which is where his desire to make music came from. "My dad is a church organist, he's been one of the best musicians I've known for my entire life," Betts said, "He studied at Oxford and has had a really successful career." As a result, he started to find that music came naturally to him. During his freshman year at AHS, Betts joined band and choir and has been in a bunch of different ensembles since then. "'I've always loved the music teachers at AHS. They always show how much they care and how much they want you to improve and do well," Betts said, "Also, making music with friends is a really good feeling, and I've met some extremely talented people." Betts also has been playing in and out of school, getting experience with different bands and professionals in countries all over the world, such as Cuba. In addition, he has higher aspirations to continue his passion. Betts has applied to several schools with good music programs, and hopes to attend the University of Michigan next year. "My plan is to major in music production. That's essentially everything to do with sound technology: live sound and recording, etc," Betts said. As a production major in college you still are required to focus on a primary instrument, and his goal is to become an accomplished producer with great musical skills. "Eventually I hope to work in a studio during the day and perform when I can for extra cash, and because performing has always been one of my favorite things to do."