Still, it's easy to misjudge band and orchestra looking in from the outside. One of the most common stereotypes is the term "band geeks" (even though most band members would be proud to be called that). People automatically assume that the music department is all about concerts in the auditorium and performances at half times. Outsiders fail to realize the competitive side of QO Music.

A tradition of competitions between people who are in either the band or the orchestra has always been a part of QO. Now, don't get the wrong idea. It is not some sort of race, or a game where someone tries to score the most points like in sports. It is called a challenge, and is similar in style to challenges in other competitive areas.

Essentially, it gives musicians the chance to prove to the music director that they deserve to be placed above another student who has a better chair, or rank, than the challenger. The competitors have four days to practice the same song, chosen by director Bill Hollin. They then play the piece to be judged by Hollin, and whoever performs better wins the chair.

The most sought after chairs are, of course, the first and second chairs, which are specially assigned to the best performers in the class, and receive solos and duets.

"I believe that every student has a right to better their position," Hollin says. "Though for some students it's a stressful situation, competition is how the world works outside of high school, whether you're trying to get a job, get a promotion, or raise your salary. My job is to help students prepare for the world outside of high school. And, most importantly, for the better of the band, it insures that they are practicing and not slacking off."

The challenge itself is actually more intense than it may seem. A challenge is emotionally and mentally demanding; it requires physical preparation just as much as musical proficiency.

The opponents have to be clear-minded and not quick to give up, especially if they make a mistake. Nerves can also kick in, because the opponents have no support; the only people allowed in the room where the challenge takes place are those directly involved (the challenger, his/her opponent, and the judge).

"It's really hard once you get in there because it's all up to you," sophomore Jen Chiswell says.

Of course, as in most competitions, a tie can occur. When this happens, both musicians must then play another song unrehearsed, simply by sight-reading.

There are also rules on challenging; for example, one student can only challenge another three times.

The purpose of challenges is not just to inspire competition among students in the music department. As much as music can be fun and even educational, it is essential for the department to know what kind of talent its students possess. Additionally, the challenge system provides student musicians with more than one opportunity to try for a top chair.

"It's good because an audition doesn't depict a person's ability to play the instrument," senior Ho Chiang Wang says. "It just shows how they're playing at that day and time."

Although some students object to the challenge system, claiming that it causes too much stress, its advantages are numerous. It benefits the players to be able to better their rank; band and orchestra members also see it as something fun, as something to shake the routine up a little so that the music classes don't become repetitive.

And besides, it breaks the stereotype that music is not as challenging and competitive as other activities.