A 2009 graduate of JHS and now a member of the prestigious United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C., Lundquist returned to Jamestown Public Schools to work directly with students across the district, sharing stories from his career, leading sectionals, and offering encouragement to the next generation of JHS musicians.

“One of the special things about being here is being able to work with the students in this very room where I was a student,” said Lundquist.

His visit was coordinated as part of a broader celebration of the JHS Band and A Cappella Choir’s 100th anniversary — a milestone that featured the world premiere of a commissioned piece and a documentary screening honoring the program’s rich legacy.

During his visit, Lundquist worked with band students at Jamestown High School, Jefferson Middle School, and Washington Middle School, particularly focusing on low brass players. He also performed a solo of “Believe Me, If All Those Endearing Young Charms” at the 100th Anniversary Concert, an Irish folk tune that shares a melody with the Jamestown High School alma mater.

Jamestown High School student musicians rehearse alongside TSgt. Erik Lundquist, a professional euphonium player with the U.S. Air Force Band, during sectional rehearsals.

Now in his eighth year with the Air Force Band, Lundquist primarily performs ceremonial music, including services at Arlington National Cemetery. A graduate of the University of North Texas, Lundquist attributes much of his success to formative experiences in Jamestown’s school music programs, which he says are unlike those in many other parts of the country.

“When we’re growing up in a place like this, we don’t always realize how special it is — because it’s our normal,” Lundquist said. “But not every student in every town gets this kind of support. I hope they carry that with them — whether they stay in Jamestown or go across the world.”

Lundquist shared hopes that they not only grow as musicians but also leave with a deeper appreciation of the community that surrounds them.

“Everybody grew up in a school music program, but they’re not all necessarily as special as what we have here in Jamestown,” he said. “The tradition, the community support, the teachers who work hard to give students great experiences — that’s not something everyone has.”

“It’s great to have a good normal,” Lundquist added. “But I hope the students will take away the fact that it’s not like this everywhere, and that what we have is special.”

TSgt. Erik Lundquist, a 2009 Jamestown High School graduate and member of the United States Air Force Band, leads a rehearsal with low brass students at Jamestown High School during his return visit to JPS.