TEXAS A&M – KINGSVILLE—On February 24, marimba soloists Juliana Diugiud, senior, and Meredith Gayanilo, junior, competed at the UIL Region 14 Solo and Ensemble competition. Both competitors received a score of “one,” the highest possible score, and will advance to the UIL State Solo Competition.
“I have competed in this competition for both violin and piano and made it to state, so I know the hard work and dedication it takes to advance each time. This was my first year competing for another instrument, the Marimba, and my confidence has built with the effort I put into practice,” said Gayanilo.
This competition takes a lot of practice as the pieces take a lot of work to be memorized. The work can also cause hand pain that both Diuguid and Gayanilo experienced after playing their instrument for long periods of time.
“I’ve taken up listening to my piece beforehand to get me in the correct mindset. Music is very dear to me and thanks to the band I was able to share my love of it,” said Diuguid.
Before a competition, Diuguid utilizes several good luck rituals to get herself prepared for competition, while Gayanilo settles for taking a deep breath and getting in a calm mindset, focused on doing the best she can.
“Normally I wear lucky socks and my cross necklace to competitions but this past one I just wore my cross,” said Diuguid.
Diuguid and Gayanilo have a personal connection with each other, and it’s fitting that they advance together as the final chapter of Diuguid’s high school experience comes to a close.
“Meredith and I have a close relationship with each other and I couldn’t be more proud of her and her achievements. We are two peas in a pod,” said Diuguid.
Gayanilo feels similarly and describes Diuguid as “the older sister [she] never had.” Many of the experiences Gayanilo had in the high school band, Diuguid witnessed and was there for.
“She has always been patient with teaching me new things on the Marimba or anything percussion-related. Having her around motivates me to do better and try harder. We are definitely an unstoppable duo. I am looking forward to our last state competition together. In essence, during the times when I felt unmotivated, she always helped me back up to my feet. Juliana will hold a place in my heart. I will miss her next year, but I will continue to make both her and me proud!” said Gayanilo.
After state, Gayanilo hopes for more successful competitions like Region in her senior year. She looks forward to being a part of leadership and hopes she does well.
“To prepare for a competition, you get to build your confidence in your musicality and perform in front of people. The feedback and comments I have received from many different definitely make me a stronger player. I would like my peers to have motivation to be the best,” said Gayanilo.
