From Spikes To Keys

SEATTLE-At 7:20 in the morning, walking to O'Dea, you can hear the sounds of music. Walking down the corridor towards the courtyard if you look to your left, you see the double doors of room 100, one thing grabs your attention the most: the bright smile of senior Isaac Lewis playing the accordion. 

Most people know Lewis for running track and cross country, but he also has a unique talent for playing the accordion. His mom had a massive impact on Lewis as she had prior experience and could hand down that knowledge.

"I always knew I wanted to make music as well, she made starting band easier because she could help me learn to read music," said Lewis.  

Like the sports he has played, he has been in the band at O’Dea for the past four years. With all that time, he has found the importance of the little things. It doesn’t matter if he is running track or playing the accordion, Lewis still has to be prepared.

"I recognize with both activities that the only way to really ensure success is consistent practice," said Lewis. This consistent way of approaching his extracurricular activities has led to Lewis setting PRs in the 800m (2:08), 1600m (4:48), and the 5k (16:48).  

Being able to play the accordion has allowed himself to be disciplined throughout all aspects of life. He has to get up early in the morning for band practice, go to school, go to practice, then on some days he has concerts in the SRC making for the longest of days. Yet Lewis insists on this difficult schedule for the simple reason that, “it's always easier to practice and progress if you have a good friend to do it with,” said Lewis.  

The band itself is a very small group and with the departure of multiple key members after this school year, it will undoubtedly be a small group next year. Together, this group performs at concerts, school assemblies and at school sporting events. It is known for playing the Irish fight song after the football team scores touchdowns and overall improving any atmosphere. 

Next time you’re walking down the corridor to the courtyard past room 100, listen to the music and consider joining this group of guys next year, “It's a pretty welcoming community, you don't have to be super good as long as you put in the work, and I think the atmosphere of being in the pep band alone is really fun, and a lot of guys would enjoy it,” said Lewis himself.