Playing before a crowded US convention hall proved an adventure for young musicians Jade Balboda and Jordan DeShields.The two provided the lone Bermuda contingent for the Lions Club Youth Band, in the club’s latest convention in the US.The On Centre in Syracuse, New York looked “gigantic, the size of an aircraft carrier”, according to 14-year-old tuba player Jordan.“I was quite nervous when I saw the empty hall,” he admitted. “Luckily, I found out that only a quarter of the seats would be filled.”They ended up performing before about 1,500 people, as the Island’s chapter of the Lions joined with New York members for the annual gathering.“Bermuda is a part of the New York State Lions organisation,” said immediate Past District Governor Steven Dean, explaining that Bermuda is linked in with Nassau County in the US.“Every year, when we have our state convention, children from each of the 12 districts are put into the band, to play for the convention and entertain people in the area.”For trumpet player Jade, a chance application to join the youth band paid off.“I want to continue music at college, but I don’t think it’s something I can pursue as a career. If I wanted to be like anybody, that would be my trumpet teacher at Saltus, Steve Miles. You learn that success comes with a lot of dedication and hard work.”The two had only a couple of days to practice their pieces — mainly marches and anthems.“This whole process is one that I hold dear, because we used to take a lot more children,” Mr Dean said. “At one time, they used to say Bermuda provided half the band. We had to break it down because it’s gotten very expensive.”Applications come in from schools around the Island, and musicians are chosen according to requirements of band director Bill Gilliard. The band size ranges from 35 to 50.Recalled Jordan, a Warwick Academy student: “Past students have gone and said it was a great experience, so my teacher signed me up.”Attending the May 18 to 20 convention has had a lasting effect on the two.“I want to continue my contact with the Lions Club,” said Jade, adding: “And if you’re looking at schools, a reference letter doesn’t hurt.”Jordan stayed to help out at club events, since they qualify for high school community service hours.Said Mr Dean: “When you see the results when they come back from this experience, the young people have gone out as lambs and come back as lions.”Useful website: www.lionsclubs.org.