Polson student raising money for music trip

Sierra Garcia has never let financial obstacles impede her pursuit of music.

The Polson High School student originally wanted to play the saxophone but opted for the trombone because her family already owned one. When the antique instrument broke during band camp her sophomore year, she took a part-time job to replace it.

Now, after recently being selected to participate in a trip through Europe as part of the Northern Ambassadors of Music program, Garcia is once again aiming to make it work.

“I figure I’m a senior, I might as well try,” Garcia said during a recent interview in the Polson High School music room.

Garcia said she plans to begin raising money to pay for travel and expenses on the multi-week tour through the birthplace of classical music. She has created an account on the fundraising website GoFundMe, and plans to hold bake sales and other charitable events over the winter.

This go-and-get-it attitude marks many of Garcia’s endeavors. In addition to working between 20 and 30 hours per week at McKenzie River Pizza, she also serves as band president, choir secretary and student union vice president. She said her days often begin at 7 a.m. and stretch until 10:30 p.m., leaving little room for homework or free time.

“I’ve always enjoyed school,” she said. “But right now with all my other responsibilities, it’s more about surviving.”

Nevertheless, Garcia manages to maintain a 4.0 grade. She said what little time she gets to spend with her family is also valuable.

“Sometimes I only see them once or twice a week, so they worry about me,” she said. “But they’re also supportive. I think they understand.”

On top of all her commitments, Garcia is also planning ahead for college. While she hopes to eke out a career in music, Garcia said she is also interested in degrees in math, specifically statistics.

As with her other undertakings, Garcia also maintains high standards while searching for a place to continue her education. In addition to Montana State University, Garcia also has her sights set on Harvard or Stanford.

“I’ve got the grades, I might as well try,” she said.

The attitude matches her approach to the trip to Europe, which she said is an opportunity worth seizing.

“At least I’ll have the experience,” she said. “If the music thing doesn’t work out.”