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(Editor’s note: Bobcat Spotlight is a recurring feature spotlighting Marshalltown High School students who are involved in activities other than traditional sports.)

Music is just one of the ways Veronica Ramirez expresses herself through art.

The Marshalltown High School senior is an experienced member of the Bobcat music department, as part of Wind Symphony, Jazz Band and Pep Band groups. She has also participated in the State Solo & Ensemble Festival and Mariachi Band.

“During the marching band season, she was the low wind section leader and did a fantastic job,” said MHS Director of Bands Brett Umthun. “Veronica is a great role model and other students look up to her.”

Ramirez first tried out for band as a student at Lenihan, trying out different instruments and getting feedback from instructors. She recalled her highest scores were in trumpet and trombone.

“I chose the baritone because it had a funny name and seemed like it would be a great fit because of my scores,” Ramirez said.

A year later, she said she got into playing the tuba, which has been a constant in her music-playing days for the last seven years, as well as playing the sousaphone, trombone and guitarron.

Ramirez said pep band was something out of her comfort zone: “I just went for it. … It’s very fun, you get to play fun, familiar tunes with your friends and it’s a new way to connect with music and friends.”

As part of pep band, she said her favorite pieces have been “Zoot Suit Riot” by the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies, “Carry On My Wayward Son” by Kansas and The Edgar Winter Band’s “Frankenstein.” Her favorite piece of all time, though, was playing “The Lion King” in the commencement band.

After MHS, she said she doesn’t plan on seeking higher education.

“I want to keep pursuing my art,” Ramirez said. “Outside of band, that’s what I spend the majority of my time in. … I really want to become a tattoo artist.”

Extracurricular activities: Advanced drawing, Jazz band, Band, painting

Something you can’t go a day without: Music and my airpods

Favorite road trip: California and going to LA

Dream vacation destination: Las Vegas

What are you listening to right now?: I love all music. One day I could be listening to the country and the next I could be listening to techno or jazz. Currently I’m listening to “Rockin’ Bones” by The Cramps

Hobbies: Drawing, crocheting, playing on my Switch, listening to music.

Favorite class: Advanced Art, Painting, Band

Favorite movie: The Craft

Favorite phone app: Instagram