by Stephanie Palazzolo, staff reporter
A hundred or so intermediate and middle schoolers were crammed in the cafeteria on Tuesday, Sept. 17. Whispers drifted through the room, but quickly quieted when the orchestra started playing their opening selection. All eyes were drawn to the musicians as the first lyrical notes of “Rolling in the Deep” echoed through the room.
The ice cream social had begun.
“[The younger orchestra members] get ice cream and get to see a very high quality and advanced performance showing where they will be in a few short years,” orchestra director Jane McCormick said.
This annual event is meant to interest 5th through 8th grade orchestra members in continuing into the high school orchestra.
Orchestra members also agreed that the ice cream social provides a chance for the intermediate and middle school orchestra members to see the Varsity Orchestra in action, along with a few other benefits.
“By playing well-known pieces, we can show the beginning string players how strings can be used in various genres other the somewhat boring [classical music],” senior Kristy Lee said. “It is definitely great to start the year with less stressful music, including [popular music and] movie music.”
The varsity orchestra performed selections from a variety of genres, including “Sharp Dressed Man,” “In My Place” and “Music from Brave.” For potential orchestra members, the ice cream social was an inspiration.
“When I heard this concert, it made me want to play like [this someday],” Oakwood fifth grader Teresa Ji said. “It was great!”
Many orchestra members lamented that former seniors had graduated; however, they all agreed that the talent of this year’s orchestra is undeniable.
“It is great to see sophomores and juniors from [junior varsity] improving as we practice every day,” Lee said. “Past varsity members also have improved a lot, as they lead the orchestra now.”
The ice cream social was only the start of a long list of activities the orchestra plans to participate in this year.
“We’re talking about what pieces we’re going to do with the whole orchestra in December. We have Solo and Ensemble, UIL Concert and Sight-reading and a trip in March,” McCormick said. “And, of course, the big Pops extravaganza in May.”
McCormick adds that she’s particularly excited to work with this year’s orchestras.
“Both groups are coming along very well,” McCormick said. “I’m really happy with the level of dedication and talent level and the work ethic.”
