Modern Music Masters (Tri-M) serves as an honor society that recognizes students for their talent and dedication to music. Monday, January 13, NC’s Tri-M Club held their first meeting of the year, planning to host a gathering every Monday for the rest of the semester. As part of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), the organization encourages students to develop their musical abilities while also becoming outstanding leaders and positive role models in the music community.
The organization gathers young musicians as they dedicate themselves to community service and outreach through musical excellence. With all of the members coming together for their love of music, it seemed almost right for peers with the same passion to lead each other through the journey of Tri-M. The active members aid in different activities for the school such as setting up when the school holds a performance ensemble.
Tri-M involves bringing together students with various musical talents and backgrounds. Whether someone plays an instrument, sings or presents a passion for music in other ways, Tri-M offers a place where students can connect. A common love for music aids members by helping form friendships and foster a sense of community, where support for each other’s musical and personal growth thrives. Members may come from different musical fine arts classes, such as band or orchestra, yet music unites them in a shared goal of self-expression and creativity. Over time, these connections can evolve into lifelong bonds, establishing Tri-M as a memorable experience for everyone involved.
“In the club, I am just mainly the sponsored advisor, so I just oversee the structure and the sequence of what we’re doing on the sidelines. I mostly just help them set their goals as well as facilitate them to achieve those goals. I like that the club is diverse, I love that it has all the music classes combined which is cool because they can share ideas together. I also think it’s really great for them to just kind of interact with those different groups that they don’t normally see day to day,” band director David Wiebers said.
In Tri-M, teamwork plays a crucial role in the experience of the club. Members participate in service projects, such as performing at local events or mentoring younger students in music. Through their community service, Tri-M members grow not only as musicians but in new skills through the varied activities they participate in. This commitment to service strengthens connections between members as they work together to change the lives of others.
Participation in the club offers recognition for their hard work and dedication to their love for music. Students who join the society receive acknowledgment for their musical achievements and commitment to the club. For a majority of the members, Tri-M provides a sense of pride, knowing they belong to a group of individuals who share similar values. Participating in Tri-M also motivates members to continue pursuing their musical goals and to set new standards for their growth and development.
“In the club, I play clarinet and in Tri-M I want to expand my horizons and play different instruments. I’ve been really into music, so I’ve been in band all four years of high school but something about Tri-M, we do things that you won’t find in any other club. And I think it’s a really cool way to connect with people,” magnet senior Leika Badstibner said.
Rather than representing the club as an honor society, Tri-M portrays it as a place where students share their love for music. As new members enter the club, a family-like atmosphere forms where everyone can thrive, developing their personal qualities alongside their musical abilities. The experience of participating in Tri-M leaves a lasting impression on its members, forming confident leaders and musicians who will continue to work with others down their path and far into their futures.
