VYPE: Owen, what makes being a member of the OBA special for you?

Owen Knop: Knowing that what I do can make a difference for the band, and that inspires me to work hard and play my best. 

VYPE: Who inspires you?

OK: The last part of question one is the “what” that inspires me, but for “who” is my middle school teacher, Mr. Toelle. He would tell me to stay diligent and always practice; he is also a great trumpet player, and I thought I could sometime be as good as him.

VYPE: What instrument do you play?

OK: I play the baritone saxophone because. I love the heavy feeling from a bass sound.

VYPE: In your opinion, what is the most difficult part of being in band?

OK: The toughest part about being in band is being diligent when practicing at my home. I struggle with getting distracted and I don’t focus on practicing my instrument when I have other things to get done, which would later cause me to forget about practicing. 

VYPE: What does it mean to you to represent OBA?

OK: Me being able to represent OBA could’ve never been done without my parents and God and knowing that I can spread the gospel to others through school activities is also a special opportunity I get to have. 

VYPE: Is there a current or former band member who left an impression on you?

OK: One person who I always look up to is a former percussion player, Asher Young. He is always on top of what he needs to get done and he always handles tough situations with a calm attitude.

VYPE: What would you like to do after you graduate?

OK: After I graduate from OBA, I will be spending one more year at Autry before finding a job that revolves around electric work or HVAC. I do not plan on leaving Enid once I graduate.