Junior Noah Scarborough stands with drumsticks in hand, ready to perform in front of hundreds. Scarborough, an active member of Prosper High School’s drumline, has prepared for this role since he was a kid.
Scarborough began playing music when he was young, ever since, rhythm and drumming have been his life. He said he has an immense love for his craft and has been selected as co-captain of the drum line, another position that provides new opportunities for leadership.
“I’m really excited to be part of this team,” Scarborough said. “And I look forward to leading the team.”
Scarborough’s drumming ability extends far beyond the practice room. He performs at school events, from beginning to end, on behalf of the drum line. These are the times when the team must deliver their best as a unit.
“Performing can be a bit stressful,” Scarborough said. “But it’s definitely worth it.”
In spite of the crazy pace and tension of performing in front of gigantic crowds, Scarborough flourishes under these circumstances. He enjoys the cooperative effort of performing, when the entire members of the drum line pool his power and ability and create something exquisite. To Scarborough, it isn’t just playing the right notes.
“It’s making something happen that resonates with the audience,” Scaborough said, “– and the rest of the band.”
He said it’s not always easy, though. Scarborough said he finds it tough to balance homework, extracurriculars and demanding drum line practice regimens. He said that he also had times where he has stressed, namely when it has looked like there is not enough time in a day to accomplish everything that needs done. His passion for work and his drive pushed him during those times. He views each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning with the expectation the work will bring dividends in skills and confidence down the road.
“Each performance and practice brings me closer to my aspirations,” he said.” “That’s the reason I want to work for them.”
As co-captain, Scarborough said he has more than personal accomplishment in mind. He is more interested in the success of his whole team. Leadership, according to Scarborough, involves creating a setting where each member of his team will excel. He sees his vocation as empowering others so that they may do their best, both separately and as a team.
Scarborough’s mom said he “loves working with people” and “is a people-person.”
The friends around Scarborough describe him as driven and dedicated to his ambitions.
“Noah is really hard working,” sophomore Beckett Fouts said. “I am really happy to see his progress on drum line.”
Talking about the future, Scarborough said he has aspirations for continuing his journey with music. For example, he would love to continue playing in college, expanding his passion for music to new heights and continuing his education. His experiences playing with the Prosper High School Drum Line have impacted his goals, and he said hopes to have the opportunity to be a part of a college drum line. For those considering joining a drum line, Scarborough has some words of wisdom.
“Don’t give up,” Scarborough said. “Even if you can’t do something right away — keep pushing.”
