Orchestra

Britton played in his first orchestra concert on Monday night.  They do orchestra a little differently in our school district.  From what I understand about 12 years ago the school district had to cut the funding for orchestra in elementary schools so a grass roots organization was formed by parents and orchestra advocates called the Mountain West Strings Academy.  The schools support the program by giving them classrooms to rehearse, but rehearsals are before school and teachers are not school employees.  The entire program is supported by sponsors, donations, and fundraisers and is thriving.  The head of the program is music PHD who loves what he does and travels all over trying to start and support similar programs in other areas of the country.  There are 45 teachers who go to each elementary school in the district (around 4 per school)  and teach the same curriculum and songs and then they all come together for a big concert each winter and spring. Ever heard a few hundred fourth graders play on the same stage?

I have.  The stage was full to the brim.  I know there were at least 70 cellos.  I took this picture at their rehearsal about an hour before the concert.  Luckily Britton was right on the front row so I was able to get a picture.  They did a great job and considering they have only been playing for 3 months and there were a couple hundred of them it turned out very well.

Britton was recognized as an "AllStar" as he had practiced for at least 24 days during the month.  His name was featured in the program with all of the other AllStars. Jenna had stars in her eyes as she thought about being able to participate next year.  She is already taking violin and really enjoys it. Jenna's idea of a good time is playing to a full house.  Korinne would rather die then do anything in front of a crowd.  Britton just kind of takes it all in stride.  He is fine to do it, he is fine to not do it.  Its funny how each child has their own personality.