March 2017 Vol. XVII No. 3
Providing a challenging, fully integrated music experience for the young musician because of support from people like you.
1629 22nd Ave SE, Olympia WA 98501 360-352-1438 studentorchestras.org
You are Helping SOGO Musicians Learn from the Pros
SOGO has so many amazing student musicians – why bring in professional soloists? SOGO’s Maestro John Welsh explains, “Part of developing the skills of students is aural – that is, hearing music performed by fully developed artists. That is why working in person with such people is so important.” To this end, Conservatory musicians are working with professionals Denise Dillenbeck and Charles Noble to perform Mozart’s Concertante Symphonie for Violin and Viola in E-flat Major at the SOGO concert on March 5 at the Washington Center. Working with musicians of this caliber is only possible with contributions from supporters like you. Conservatory violinist Angela Pak talks about what she’ll be watching for during rehearsals. “I think I will gain a stronger sense of direction in how the piece should be executed. I'll be able to visually see the kind of bow length, speed, and weight they use and the precision of their beat which will be a good guide for me to follow.” (See “Angela and Why bring in professional soloists? Amadeus” at right to learn more Part of developing the skills about Angela’s views about Mozart.)
of students is aural – that is, hearing music performed by fully developed artists.
“
“
Noble has experienced this from both sides. “When I was a student in the Tacoma Youth Symphony, I got the opportunity (Continued on p. 2)
Ready to Rock?
SOGO Summer Music Camp June 26-July 7
Musicians from 5th - 8th grade should get ready to rock, swing, and explore music from around the globe at the new SOGO Summer Music Camp. The exciting class list includes Rock Orchestra, Steel Drumming, World Drumming, Mariachi, and Jazz Band in addition to traditional orchestra and band classes.
Classes Offered: Rock Orchestra Mariachi World Drumming Music Theory Steel Drumming Composing on the Computer Jazz Band Beginning Band Swap Band Intermediate Band Advanced Band Intermediate String Orchestra
3 WAYS TO GIVE:
Elizabeth Ward, SOGO Brass Choir Assistant Conductor and French Horn Teaching Artist, helped develop the program. “SOGO, with its commitment to young musicians, is the perfect place to renew a summer music program,” says Ward. Camp will be June 26 - July 7, 2017. The program will be open to musicians from 5th – 8th grade who play strings, winds and percussion. The fee for each class is $75. Course descriptions are online at studentorchestras.org. Watch the website for online registration. “SOGO Summer Music will be a dynamic way to further reach into areas which are underserved in our community,” says Ward. “Learning music and meeting friends in a positive and supportive environment. It doesn't get any better than that!”
Angela and Amadeus SOGO Conservatory violinist Angela Pak shares her thoughts on Mozart’s ‘Concertante Symphonie for Violin and Viola in E-flat Major.’ As a violinist, it's always fun playing Mozart! I like the lightness and playful attitude it maintains throughout. I personally enjoy playing Mozart's pieces as you can see his character and personality shine through the melodies. The majority of the dynamics are either forte or piano, no in-between (with the exception of the occasional forte-piano or crescendos). Likewise, his tempos and rhythms can be repetitive as there is not much diversity in his notes. However, despite the little variation, Mozart is still able to deliver an entertaining performance with lots of energy and expression. What I find most challenging about this Mozart piece is being able to maintain the energy and playing each note differently so as not to be bland. As Mr. Welsh says often, we should not play two notes the same way. It will be important to focus on the shaping and articulation. Since there are so many violins, it'll be just as important to match each other's bowing and speed. Come hear Mozart’s character and personality shine through the Conservatory Orchestra this March 5 at 4:00 P.M. at the Washington Center.
Don’t have a middle schooler? You can provide a half scholarship for an underserved student to take two classes for just $75. studentorchestras.org
1629 22nd Ave SE, Olympia WA 98501
Facebook.com/ studentorchestras