Issue link: http://latinschool.uberflip.com/i/134761
"We learned very early on that every show, no matter how big or small, is an opportunity that can lead to the next show or another opportunity." went on to Oxford University to earn a master's in American history. To a large extent, they credit the role models and encouragement they received at Latin for giving them the confidence to follow their dream. "Teachers like Ingrid Dorer [Fitzpatrick] and Dr. Dolezal were a big influence," said Pete. "They instilled a best-efforts, high-standards combination in me. Mr. Teolis put drumsticks in my hands in fifth grade, and his motto was all about loyalty and commitment. So, although music wasn't an obvious choice, it was something we always worked hard at and were determined to do our best with." The band practiced many hours in the Mathias basement, making its debut at an 8 a.m. morning assembly on the Wrigley Theatre stage when Johnny was in seventh grade and the others in ninth. "It wasn't impressive when we got up there," recalled Teddy. "It was pretty bad, in fact. I think I went into the alley and threw up in a dumpster after." Despite how the band members felt, both teachers and peers had only positive things to say. "I'm pretty sure if no one had said anything nice at all that day, it might have been our last show," he said. Friends and teachers from high school still have an impact today. "When you are part of an environment where your teachers and yours peers are encouraging and supporting you – sometimes almost blindly – it is much easier to take risks," said Casey. "To have a group of people who have encouraged us for all those years is the key to why we are still doing this and the key to any success that we have experienced." n LATI N SCHOOL OF CHI CA GO 23