NERD IS THE WORD
For nearly three-quarters of a century, the word "nerd" has been part of our social lexicon and teen vernacular. Depending on your age, hearing the word may conjure up a vision of Fonzie talking to Ralph and Potsie, Steve Urkel saying "Did I do that?!", or Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory. Each generation has had its "nerd" mascot – someone who embodies what others think to be uncool.
An article on NPR.org states that "The exact time and place of the word "nerd"origin remain somewhat murky, but the leading theory is that it likely first appeared in print in a 1950 children's book written by Dr. Seuss.
In his book, Seuss's young narrator says:
And then, just to show them, I'll sail to Ka-Troo
And bring back an It-kutch, a Preep, and a Proo,
A Nerkle, a Nerd, and a Seersucker, too!
Nerd? Nerkle? Seersucker? I don't know what those are, but they are being collected for a zoo, so it paints a picture more of a circus oddity than an animal to be admired.
As a high school music devotee during the 1980s, I often heard the phrase "band nerd," and while the small-minded word slingers who used it intended for it to be embarrassing, I wore it as a badge of honor. However, my feelings are unlikely to be shared by many. Regardless of your generation or place of origin, the word "nerd" has always carried a pejorative undertone, implying a socially awkward teenager fixated on an unpopular activity.
Until now.
Merriam-Webster defines a nerd as "a person devoted to intellectual, academic, or technical pursuits or interests" or "a person preoccupied with or devoted to a particular activity or field of interest."
However, the more modern Wikipedia definition states: Originally viewed as derogatory, the term "nerd" was a negative stereotype; however, as with other pejoratives, it has been reclaimed and redefined (by some) as a term of pride and group identity.
Intellectual, academic, devoted, and technically skilled. Sounds about right. That's a music kid. And that's a kid you can be proud of.
Our music students are dedicated individuals passionately pursuing technical, intellectual, emotional, and musical achievement at extraordinary levels. Their accolades and accomplishments, both within and outside the music building, are not going unnoticed. People outside of our activity, including their peers, are beginning to recognize and appreciate their efforts.
A 2025 New Yorker article highlighted how competitive high school bands are now regarded as both elite athletic and artistic endeavors—with choreography, physical intensity, and team culture that mirrors that of sports. Students described it as "one huge community" rather than something niche or nerdy.
Indeed, it's a community—a progressive, inclusive, and forward-thinking community that is redefining the perception of 'nerd' culture.
What changed that caused the perception to shift from pariah to popular? Let's start with education and tolerance. Unlike some of their older counterparts, today's teens are more educated on issues of tolerance and acceptance.
Second is the rise in achievement. Success begets respect. When students commit to high levels of performance, regardless of whether it is in academics, athletics, or the arts, they are appreciated and respected for it.
Another component is the rise of TikTok and other social media platforms. These venues enable students to connect with and be exposed to similar peer groups throughout our nation and the world. They see like-minded peers, are emboldened by the sheer size of the activity, and are inspired to a higher level of achievement and acceptance.
Being in music isn't just cool—it comes with academic clout, social recognition, cultural pride, and visible presence. It's no longer the quirky side activity—it's mainstream, respected, and thriving. More than anything, it no longer requires the approval of others as it has elevated itself to be respected as something difficult, laudable, and worthy of respect. Dr. Seuss reminds us that it's cool to be hard-working, dedicated, committed, and passionate about something that'simportant to you.
"Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you!"
So, it's cool to be YOU!
Have a great week.
Your fellow and cool band nerd,
Scott