While the classical jazz vibrates across the PAC, trombone 1 rises for a solo in his last concert ever. Leading his section, Senior trombone player Aneesh Bhat mesmerizes the audience with notes that show his brilliant and exquisite artistry.
Aneesh’s journey with music first began in middle school when he joined the ensemble and Jazz band in the 6th grade. He has been playing ever since. Starting at a young age, he dedicated his time and energy to improving and mastering his craft and playing all sorts of instruments in his musical career including the clarinet, trombone, bass trombone, tuba, and sousaphone. He is currently only playing the trombone and sousaphone as those are his favorites, especially when in the higher register.
Excited to continue pursuing his hobby of Music, Aneesh’s dedication and commitment continued throughout high school as he was a part of SMHS’s music program. Being a part of our jazz band for all 4 years and marching band for 2 years, he learned more about music and found a new love for Jazz music. “I love jazz because of the diversity and that it can be listened to in many settings,” says Aneesh. He feels Jazz is special to him as it is a form of art with meaning and deep culture behind it and is available to all. Being surrounded by the best jazz players at San Mateo, his ability to grow as a musician was evident.
He “has continued to improve as a musician and has become a very positive and effective leader in the band,” says SMHS band director Mr. Tribuzi.
Looking back, Aneesh credits his success as a musician to his predecessors in the band. As a freshman, his motivation came from the older players in the band as he was inspired by how well they expressed themselves through music. Now, a proud section leader in the jazz and marching bands at San Mateo, it brings him joy seeing and mentoring young band members grow to their full potential.
As SMHS has helped him grow as not only a musician but as a student, Aneesh will be taking his positive and empathetic personality to UC Davis. Though not continuing his Music career in college, he will still be practicing as much as possible. He feels Davis was a perfect fit for him as it offers him so many opportunities to pursue his hobbies and interests while working towards his professional goals. Majoring in Molecular and Medical Microbiology in the School of Biological Sciences, his goal is to be a practicing physician. Whether he’s playing music or learning to become a doctor, one thing is for sure, Aneesh Bhat has a bright future.