Hello everyone,
We are working hard to prepare our LGPE performance selections for our upcoming performances. As you may have heard, we’ve had a little drama with LGPE because a few weeks back the dimmer rack that controls all of the auditorium lights went out. A board that controls all of the lights was fried, most likely by a power surge. The motherboard on the fried electrical panel was running on a floppy disk… running Windows 98.. and because of the age, the manufacturer no longer makes those parts. It was unknown if the parts were available and if it could be fixed or replaced in a timely manner. We came up with a plan B to move LGPE to another location. After securing the location and reworking the performance schedule, we were informed that the lights were able to be fixed. We have a VERY talented repairman working for FCS who was able to secure a working motherboard, and find an [old!] computer that could run and install the software and reprogram everything. I’m happy to announce, as of yesterday, that the repair is complete and the lights are once again working properly! The show must go on!! 🙂
Orchestra Guests
Students have had the opportunity to have a few guests visit our classes this semester:
On Tuesday, January 14, we welcomed Elizabeth Fayette, violinist with the Vega Quartet, in residence at Emory University. She performed some Bach and gave a presentation on strings. She discussed how they were manufactured, the different types, and lots of other great information.
On Wednesday, January 15, we welcomed Tyler Hartley, local professional harpist, and harp teacher. She talked about the harp, its history, and various performance practices. She also performed and let students try it out. If your child is interested in possibly pursuing the harp, please let Dr. Laux know.
Yesterday, we had Dr. Emily Wetzel run violin sectionals to help provide some extra detailed work for the second violin sections. We will continue to bring in more guests as time and funding permits.
Donations needed!
The orchestra room is in need of paper towels and facial tissues. We always have things to clean and spills to clean up. Also, with cold season coming around, the tissues are disappearing quickly. If you are able to donate some, it would be greatly appreciated!!
Pre-LGPE Concert
Our Pre-LGPE concert is next Thursday, February 6 at 6:30 PM in the auditorium. I have decided to move up the start time of this concert so that students will be able to go home earlier.
This concert is an opportunity for each of the orchestras to perform their LGPE music in front of an audience.
Parents – please keep in mind that this performance is not a final product, but a formative activity that will help us find problem areas within our music and confirm some of the aspects of our performance that we are doing well.
The concert will be recorded and recordings will be shared with other directors for their constructive feedback. In addition, the students will listen to their recordings and take notes so they can improve before our actual LGPE performances on February 19 and 20.
LGPE (Large Group Performance Evaluation)
Our LGPE performance will take place on either Wednesday or Thursday, February 19 or February 20. These performances are open to the public, so if you are available, we would LOVE to have you as audience members.
- Wednesday, Feb 19 at 9:00 AM – Concert Orchestra
- Thursday, Feb 20 at 9:00 AM – Philharmonia
- Thursday, Feb. 20 at 2:15 PM – Sinfonia
- Thursday, Feb 20 at 4:30 PM – Chamber Orchestra
- Thursday, Feb 20 at 7:15 PM – Symphony Orchestra (Full)
The times listed are the actual performance times, however there is a 30-minute warm-up prior to performance and a 30-minute session after the performance for our sight-reading and clinic.
Music Mentors
In order to build a better sense of family, the orchestra has developed a music mentors program. This is where upperclassmen or more advanced students can help mentor/tutor younger or less advanced students. It’s a great way for students to work together and build community all while improving musicianship and leadership skills. Students should sign up to be a mentor or mentee at:
Orchestra Grades
So far this semester, students should have completed three Practice Vlogs (one per week). These are formative assignments that help students practice using strategies and a plan. Along with the document, students are to submit a 5-minute practice sample that is to be done Vlog style (talking to the camera to explain what they are doing)
The first summative playing test of the semester was assigned yesterday and is due on Sunday, Feb 2. This is a recorded playing test that will be graded with the performance rubric.
Students will also receive grades for monthly participation and citizenship, and the Pre-LGPE concert, concert self-assessment, and LGPE performances.
Spirit Day
Upcoming Events
- Thursday, February 6 – Pre-LGPE Concert, 6:30 PM
- February 19-21 – LGPE at AHS
- Wednesday, April 29 – Spring Concert, 7:00 PM
- Friday, May 8 – Orchestra Banquet (ticket info coming soon!)
- Tuesday, May 12 – Senior Showcase
Please let Dr. Laux know if you have any questions or concerns.