LGPE
LGPE was a huge success! This year we served as the host location and it was a lot of work managing all 48 orchestras and 2150+ students. Special thanks to our managers, Nathaly and Ashley, along with the rest of our student leaders and volunteers for taking such good care of the directors and other orchestras. I received so much positive feedback from our judges and visiting directors on how amazing our students were. We could not have done it without you!
I am proud to announce that all five of the AHS Orchestras received straight superior ratings on stage and in sight-reading. This is the first time that our orchestras have made this accomplishment! I couldn’t be more proud of each of the orchestras and all they have done this year. The improvement from concert to concert has been truly remarkable. Keep it up, everyone!
Special thanks to our AHSOA board for providing after-LGPE treats last Friday. The bundt cakes were delicious!
Auditions
Audition materials for 2020-2021 have been posted to the website. Students interested in Philharmonia, Sinfonia, Symphony or Chamber should audition. Please read the packet carefully for the directions to record, upload, and submit. The deadline is Friday, April 3 at 11:59 PM.
Solo and Ensemble Unit
All students are required to participate in at least one small group ensemble and prepare one solo. In May, students will perform their ensembles during an in-class recital. Solos will be submitted via Google Classroom or performed in class if the student so chooses.
This unit is very important as it helps students become more independent musicians and allows for valuable collaboration.
Instrument/Bow Upgrade?
Are you still renting the same instrument you had in middle school? Or are you ready to upgrade your instrument and/or bow? Emily Dixon of Beau Vinci violins came to visit us last week with an informative presentation about instruments, bows, and how to best select them. As our students become better musicians, it is important that their equipment grows with them. I often see the case of a student “outplaying” their equipment. The bow is often overlooked as equipment to upgrade but plays a critical role in one’s overall sound and control.
Maintenance is also important – strings should be changed and bow hair replaced at least once per year.
Orchestra Awards Banquet
More details about our awards banquet will be coming soon, but please save the date of Friday, May 8. We will be at a new venue this year and the price will be $25 which is $10/per person less than last year. I think you will really like the new setting!
Senior Showcase
The Senior Showcase is a concert put on by the 2020 senior class. They will perform solos and ensembles as their culminating performance of their high school career. Please plan on attending on Tuesday, May 12 at 7:00 PM in the Auditorium. Attendance for all non-senior orchestra members is required at this event.
Upcoming Events
- Friday, April 3 – All placement audition videos are due by 11:59 PM
- Wednesday, April 29 – Spring Concert, 7:00 PM, AHS Auditorium
- Friday, May 8 – Awards Banquet, Crooked Creek County Club, Time TBA
- Tuesday, May 12 – Senior Showcase, 7:00 PM, AHS Auditorium
- May 13-15 – Small Ensemble Performances during Class