Whenever you’re in the performing arts hallway, just stop. Listen. Doherty’s orchestra has serenaded the whole of Sparta since 1975. Featuring three classes, plus the pit orchestra in the spring, they truly leave their mark.
Joining an orchestra, like any other music ensemble, can truly change a life. Having a higher sense of community, teamwork, and collaboration leads to students reaching new heights as musicians, people, and students. Samuel Rollence, a violist in the Chamber Orchestra, stated, “In orchestra, we get community and get to collaborate with other musicians as well,” he continued, “being able to collaborate gives you multiple perspectives, allowing you to grow [as a musician].”
Rollence’s statement is one shared with countless other orchestral musicians. Being in any ensemble can truly broaden your horizons as a musician and as a person, and can truly change someone’s life. Helena Lodge, a pianist in the Chamber Orchestra, explained, “It designates time to practice my piano skills, and the music Mrs. Baugh gives out is interesting and fun.” Lodge also continued, “We do warm-ups every class period, and it helps me play music I don’t normally play, and broadens my horizons.” `
Now, you may be thinking, “How is this different from any other musical group?” Mrs. Baugh, the director of orchestras at Doherty, explained, “I think orchestra flies under the radar a bit compared to the other performing arts classes actually. Our instruments are not meant to be played outside or in the huge space of the gym, so we are often overlooked when it comes to public performances or games. We’re kind of like the cool group that you would have to know about to know about. But the Orchestra is full of many creative individuals that express themselves in many different ways. We get to experience many different styles of art, and music, and great conversations with some incredibly intelligent students. We also do a lot of collaboration with other schools and groups.”
Orchestra is expressly unique from any other ensemble. While they don’t get to be the “hype” ensemble, they still radiate school spirit through their students intelligence and musical standards. For example, Samuel Rollence shows true Spartan spirit with his selection into the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs.Among audition opportunities, orchestra students also experience countless exciting opportunities with their peers. When asked her favorite orchestra moment, Baugh stated, “[My favorite moment was] traveling to Fort Collins for ASTA competition and visiting the CSU campus. This trip was extra exciting because it was snowing horribly all day long and we got to spend 5 hours on the bus [to] try to get home. “
If you’re looking for a new music ensemble to join, whether an experienced musician or a newcomer, try out Doherty’s orchestra!
