This previously ran in our 2022 June Senior Issue.

Ben Billowitch’s face may seem familiar from countless football game and student section performances; playing front and center as the drumline’s king the center snare. A talented musician, Billowitch has immersed himself heavily in the world of drumming – participating in the EHS symphonic band, percussion ensemble, marching band, as well as the prestigious Reading Buccaneers Drum and Bugle Corps. 

After high school, Billowitch intends to continue his marching career, with long-term plans to pursue music education. 

Stinger: How did you start drumming? 

Billowitch: Joe Grable. Joe Grable told me I was a loser if I didn’t join drumline and I joined drumline and now I’m here. He came up to me when I was sitting with Ty Geiger and Jack Gaul. Yeah, he was like join drumline or you’re a [loser], and I was like, I didn’t take it personally. I was just kind of like “guess I’ll join drumline” and then I did. 

Stinger: How do you think music has impacted your life? 

Billowitch: Very good way, very creative way. I’m able to open [up] and express my emotions a lot more than I would have just sitting there doing nothing like all the high school. 

Stinger: What’s your favorite memory with drumline? 

Billowitch: Oh dear God, baby powder, baby powder. Baby powder. 

Stinger: Do you think marching bands a sport? 

Billowitch: Yes. 

Stinger: Really? 

Billowitch: Yes. What I do, yes. 

Stinger: Do you have any advice for your own freshman year self? 

Billowitch: Keep your mouth shut and practice. 

Stinger: What’s something that you won’t miss about high school won’t miss? 

Billowitch: I would say this band as my option but the drama. 

Stinger: What’s your haircare routine? 

Billowitch: Redken shampoo and conditioner. 

Stinger: Do you have any role models? 

Billowitch: John Panza. Definitely John. Him and like some other dude Matt McNeil from Bucks. 

Stinger: What’s a song that you think describes your high school experience? 

Billowitch: Money Convo by 21 Savage. I don’t have a song that describes my high school experience. [It’s] just that that is my high school experience. 

Stinger: Did you enjoy drumline all four years? 

Billowitch: Yes. Overall, I enjoyed drumline. Like, it was dope f–king around, and like I love band and doing drum things with sticks. Emmaus, the Emmaus method.