On Tuesday, November 13th, the orchestra program performed their winter concert. The program featured all four orchestras, but the focus was on the Chamber orchestra and its members.
For the first time in a decade, the Richardson High School Chamber Orchestra entered into the State Honor Orchestra Competition, ranking 30th in Texas. To participate, each orchestra had to submit a live recording of the orchestra playing college-level music. The orchestra had been preparing for this recording since April earlier this year.
Junior Mia Ivos summarized the rehearsals with three words: “differences can attract”, hinting at the endless hours she and other orchestra members had to spend practicing with each other which further strengthened their harmony.
Director Sara Long also made acknowledged all the students who participated in October’s All Region competition, as well as all the people who actually made the prestigious orchestra.
“It was my third year making Region and it really inspires me to work harder and enjoy music,” junior Mia Ivos said. “Plus I get to socialize with musicians all over North Texas.”
Junior Christine Kim even though she didn’t quite make the cut, she was happy with her performance.
“I did not make all region, but auditioning for it and making 57th chair, when they only took 40 places, was an honor in itself”.
The last song of the evening was a compilation piece of American-themed songs, including “This Land is Your Land” and “God Bless America,” in reference to Veteran’s day earlier that week.
“It was very rewarding,” senior Abel Belachew said. “I felt great playing the pieces and honoring our veterans.”
This was the last concert for the RHS Chamber Orchestra this semester.
“I loved hearing what the other orchestras have been preparing since the beginning of the year,” Kim said. “Everyone has really improved on their instrument”.