Orchestrating her Future

Hannah Abner’s orchestral trek through the years

by Kristen May content editor

Hannah Abner started to play in the orchestra during her sixth grade year. “I played the violin… [and] just kept going,” Abner describes. She has experienced so many fun memories during her time in the orchestra. Abner has also found that as time goes on, she’s really seen her own talents mature, along with her fellow string players. “Watching my own abilities grow and everyone around me grow…it’s been really awesome,” Abner reflects.

It’s been difficult for Abner to juggle all of the different activities she has. With school, the soccer team, and orchestra, her schedule is filled to the brim. “[The question is] how am I going to manage school…and sports and practice… [and] the management of it, too. I think it’s just a time balance thing,” Abner concedes. “It’s prioritizing and knowing what has to get done in different areas of my life.” However, learning how to juggle varying activities and hobbies is a useful tool that can help people throughout their whole life.

Abner has formed so many connections with her fellow musicians over the years. “I’ve definitely made friendships,” she remarks. “Some of these people I’ve been playing with since sixth grade, so it’s cool, like growing as a class…it’s just something different that brings people together.” Central’s orchestra plays together every day, and it’s amazing how once the group gets in sync, the more beautiful it sounds. Abner enjoys playing a lot of different pieces but especially likes any songs that come from movies or plays, as they’re “always fun because they’re always recognizable,” she explains. There’s also the concerts to look forward to during the year. “[I] always enjoy our holiday concerts because we always play fun Christmas carols and recognizable songs,” Abner shares. “Those are always fun to do. The audience always likes them.”

Abner has learned a lot over the years and has made many memories during her time playing in Central’s orchestra. She plans to attend Alma next year to play soccer and is also going to join the school’s orchestra as well: “It’s just another aspect of who I am and what I do.” //