Arts Student of the Week: Jannik Stranzenbach

Niwot High School trumpet player Jannik Stranzenbach appreciates the peaceful feeling that settles over him when he plays music. "I would describe it as a passion that allows your mind to rest," Stranzenbach explained. "When playing music there is a lot to focus on, so any stress that you might be experiencing is relieved, because there is no time to think about it when you are playing."

NHS Band Director Wade Hendricks selected Stranzenbach as Arts Student of the Week. "Jannik has progressed tremendously in his trumpet playing ability," Hendricks said. "He is a leader in the NHS Advanced Jazz Band."

So far, sophomore Stranzenbach says his experience at NHS has been incredible. "All of my teachers have been very supportive, and I was given all the help I needed. The overall atmosphere of not only the academics but the whole school is very welcoming and positive. I would highly recommend Niwot to anyone," he said.

Although not a professional musician, it was Stranzenbach's older brother, a 2024 NHS graduate, who inspired him to participate in the NHS Jazz band. "My brother had a great experience in the jazz band, which is why I tried out as a freshman," he said.

As a music student, Stranzenbach appreciates the excellent education he is receiving at the high school. "We are able to play high quality music while keeping the environment enjoyable and constructive. The music program is very welcoming to various levels of skill, having bands of multiple skill levels. Overall, my experience has been very positive and I would recommend it to the people considering it."

Recently Stranzenbach qualified as third trumpet in the Combined League Honor Jazz Band, which performed at Frederick High School on Tuesday, Nov. 19. Participating in the Honor Jazz Band provided a great opportunity for Stranzenbach to be part of a band that combines some of the best players in northeastern Colorado. "I am excited to see how some trumpet players better than I play, and hopefully learn something new from the great clinicians there," he said before the concert.

Stranzenbach said many of his performances have been a blur, and he leaves without remembering much about what occurred. "A lot happens in a short period of time," he said, "and I just try to focus on all the things we talked about, leaving the playing to muscle memory. Although no specific memories, all the memories are good ones."

In addition to the trumpet, Stranzenbach has been playing the piano since he was five years old. He particularly enjoys playing Mozart's arrangements, and he considers Mozart one of his favorite composers. "Learning different styles of music has kept me interested in piano, never letting it get boring," he said.

Hendricks has been impressed by Stranzenbach's ability to balance music with sports. "He plays on the Niwot HS soccer team as well as for his club--his favorite team is Bayern Munich," Hendricks added.

This month Stranzenbach traveled to Arizona with his club team to participate in a soccer tournament. "Soccer has been my passion since I was three years old, and has always been a focus in my life. It is a way for me to distance myself from everything and just focus on the game. Soccer along with music are my stress relievers."

In addition to soccer and music, Stranzenbach enjoys skiing. He has been skiing since the age of two, and it has been very important to him. "Skiing is a great way for me to connect with my friends and also relieve stress," he said.

Although he has not put a great deal of thought into his future, Stranzenbach plans to attend a four-year university and hopes to focus on some aspect of engineering.