Growing up with a visual impairment has not slowed Angel Alfaro.
And it certainly hasn’t stopped the seventh-grader from being a part of the band at McMichael Middle School.
“Angel is proving that determination, perseverance, and a love of music can break through even the toughest challenges,” said Jessica White, seventh-grade band director at McMichael. “He’s learned to play the baritone and, along the way, has demonstrated to his friends, teachers, and community that nothing can stop him from pursuing his passion for music.”
So how has Angel pulled this off without being able to visually read the music? He learns a lot by ear, said White. Directors will also work with him for one-on-one sessions and play the song or passage before guiding him through the music by counting rhythms and singing note names.
“Thanks to a team of dedicated band directors and friends, Angel has been able to find innovative ways to succeed,” said White, who has worked closely with him to adapt lessons to fit his needs, while also encouraging him to push beyond his limits.
“He has faced challenges most students could never imagine,” she said. “But his spirit and heart has led him to achieve great success. From first learning how to play the baritone to learning new music by ear, Angel's journey has been one of resilience and determination. His story is not just about overcoming adversity – it's about him thriving in the face of it.”
Music has always been a point of interest for Angel.
"When I first joined band, I was scared about how I would do it, but my directors and friends supported me, and I just kept practicing and playing,” he said. “Now, I feel like I’m part of something special.
“My director, Mrs. White, has never given up on me and always works hard to find different fun ways to help me be successful, and it lets me be a part of the band just like every other student. I love all my band directors, and I wouldn’t be able to do this without them.”
"He’s one of the most determined students I have ever worked with," White said. "His dedication to learning and growing in band and on baritone is inspiring. He never lets his blindness be an excuse; not only does he show up to every rehearsal with a positive attitude, but he puts in the work to keep up with his other friends in band. Getting to take Angel to UIL this year was one of the highlights of my career so far. He’s a true testament to hard work and perseverance. I have learned so much from him and he will forever hold a very special place in my heart.”
One of Angel’s most significant milestones came in April when he performed with the band at the University Interscholastic League contest that showcases the talents of all students in band. Despite the added pressure and the challenges of learning new music, Angel played his baritone with confidence and skill, contributing to the band’s overall success of the seventh-graders earning Superior Ratings from the judges.
“It was a big moment for me,” Angel recalled. “I was nervous, but I knew I had prepared. When we played together as a band, it felt amazing. I’m really proud of what Mrs. White, my band and I accomplished together.”
Angel's future in music looks bright. He plans to continue playing baritone and hopes to inspire other students who may be facing their own challenges, just as his story has inspired those around him.
"I just want to keep playing music and show everyone that anything is possible," Angel said with a smile. "I’m not ever going to stop playing my Baritone."