A trombone in a sea of mustard flowers

With quiet determination, this senior guy has faced his life and infused it with his kindness. His high school experienced was clouded with the Covid-19 pandemic that kept him from performing on his beloved trombone. As the intensity of the pandemic lessened he was able to perform in a few concerts before his graduation from El Toro High School. We met together to capture this important moment in his life, right when the mustard flowers were blooming in all their glory at Quail Hill Trail in Irvine.

This rough trail is carved out of the urban center of Irvine to preserve the natural space and provide beautiful land to explore. It is popular with hikers, families, and photographers. We saw many pairings of photographers and subject because the mustard flowers were at their peak. It’s a beautiful spot to capture images during the spring months in Orange County, California.

I met this senior guy when he was in preschool, playing with my son of the same age. His mom is truly one of the kindest persons I know who fills my heart with lightness after I spend even a minute chatting with her. Determination and strength also runs through their spirits which is why I had no surprise at the skill and high level of trombone playing this senior has. He wore his letterman jacket from El Toro High School proudly, as well he should.

As he looks to his future, I wish him the best of luck. Yet I don’t think luck will be what gets him through. Rather his quiet determination, his kindness, his perseverance, all qualities he carries in high measure. These will serve him well!