The orchestra is also preparing for an upcoming concert on December 8. The three orchestras, the Concert, the Philharmonic and the Chamber will each be playing separate pieces of music. Orchestra Director Brian Scott has the music all laid out and ready to go.
“The orchestras will perform a mixture of sacred and secular music on their Holiday Concert,” Scott said. “The Concert Orchestra’s holiday themed music includes a collection of well known carols and a set of variations on a traditional English carol. The Philharmonic Orchestra is playing two secular, upbeat pieces, between which they will perform a work showcasing Celtic Christmas music. The Chamber Orchestra will open with a popular English carol, after which they will perform Vaughan Williams “Fantasia on Greensleeves.” The concert will end with a movement from Mozart’s 25th symphony.”
Scott is also making sure students get plenty of practice during class times.
“Each rehearsal the orchestras work through a series of exercises on fundamental and advanced individual and ensemble techniques,” Scott said. “The remainder of each class period is spent working on music for this concert.”
All this practice is not interfering with future competitions, whether they be solo or ensemble. In fact, according to Scott, this practice will “contribute to improving both these [solo and group performances] areas.”
Senior cello player Bryce MacDonald makes sure he thoroughly prepares for upcoming concerts or competitions.
“I play the pieces several times through,” said MacDonald. “I make sure that I play the harder sections over and over again.”
MacDonald has been playing the cello for seven years, beginning while he was in fifth grade.
“I joined because it just seemed like a lot of fun to me,” said MacDonald.
Orchestra holds its practices during class; the students can also come in during seminar for extra practice.