Senior Winston Malmquist is setting new standards for the Thousand Oaks High School band program as each day passes.

Malmquist’s passion for music ignited in fourth grade after spending his childhood surrounded by music.

That passion has transformed into an artistry as he has joined elite band ensembles, first with the Drum Core International Mandarins and now he stands as the highest level member of the Drum Core International Blue Devils—an organization with 22 world championships under their belt.

Malmquist compares the rigorous summer tours to the intensity of a club sports team. Whether that fire in you comes throwing a football, or beating a drum.

“You audition, and then you’re off competing across 13 states,” Malmquist said.

From the vibrant energy of local high school fields to the grand stages of Drum Corps International competitions in Indianapolis, every performance is a testament to his dedication. Malmquist spent the past Summer traveling to compete and better his craft.

“I definitely come from a family of music, I have that craft within me naturally,”Malmquist said.

Yet, amid the accolades and national tours, Malmquist’s ambitions extend beyond the spotlight. With an eye on the future, he recently auditioned for one of the nation’s top music programs, California State University Northridge (CSUN), and job offers from local schools are already in the works.

In a world where many teenagers are still finding their voice, Malmquist shows us how music ultimately can become someone’s voice.

As Malmquist finishes his time at TO, his next chapter begins, sharing the common denominator of music.