Letter from Dan (10/6)

Dear Concertino West,

Happy fall! Are you enjoying the cooler weather? I am! Thank you for a productive time in sectionals this week. Though we worked on lots of things, here is one take-away from each sectional coach:

• Woodwinds (Mr. Kaiser): Use more energetic articulation to help your parts speak
• Brass (Karl): “Color in the lines” for more precision
• Percussion (Eri): When you begin a long roll, remember how loud you want to be at the end of it
• Strings (Dan): Use active/energetic fingers during slurs

Practice Assignment (GTCYS10) for This Week

• Beethoven 5
  • Now that we’ve learned the entire piece, start playing through it with the recording (playlist linked at the top of our member page)
• Russian Sailor’s Dance
  • Continue to practice Rehearsal 10-end
  • Play through with the recording
• Waltz:
  • Review the A section (measures 1-16)
• Debussy
  • Continue to review the B Section (27-51) with metronome set at Quarter = 60
• Johnny Comes Marching Home: We are playing in this “in 2”
  • Review Rehearsal 13-end (Variation 4)

Seating Auditions
You received a handout in rehearsal this week about seating auditions and you can find a link at the top of our member page (password: concertinowest25-26). Remember, auditions are a chance to practice your skills. Your placement in the orchestra doesn’t reflect your value as a Concertino West musician. Here are the details:

• Woodwinds and Brass – Next week, October 13, during sectionals
• Strings – October 27, during rehearsal

Student Speakers Needed
Are you interested in improving your public speaking skills? This season, we’re looking for orchestra members to introduce pieces at our concerts. I’ll give you a script with room to make it your own and you don’t need to memorize anything (unless you want to!). Use this form to sign up by next Monday, October 13 and I’ll be in touch as we get closer to a performance!

Have a great week!

Dan