Letter from Ms. Mary (10/14)

Hey Philharmonia East,

Thanks for your hard work last night.  We were able to incorporate sightreading as well as have Handel Storytime.  What piece in our repertoire did Handel compose?  You also met the Philharmonia East Student Leadership Team.  They would love to hear your thoughts and ideas. The suggestion box will be by the entrance to our rehearsals.

We focused on two ideas last night-steady tempos and sustaining the sound.  We are always striving for the most beautiful sound in our playing-a beautiful sound that does not rush.  What is the Philharmonia East mantra?

I will not_______.  Rushing is ________.  Let’s remember this at all of rehearsals!

We are making good progress in Turbulence.  Remember the energy from the beginning!  Accents and clear articulations are what gives this piece that driving, brazen sound!  In your practice this week, pay special attention to the accents.  In contrast to that, how sustained and smooth are your slurs? Are you playing with long, sustained bows? How clear is the sound?  Are the bowings correct?  Can you spend at least 15 minutes this week focusing on the legato, sustained sections in Turbulence?

A reminder that you need to bring a stand to every rehearsal. Just as a sports player shows up to practice/games with all of their equipment, we must have everything that we need to rehearse as best we can.  When you come to rehearsal without a stand or your music, it is similar to an athlete showing up with only one shoe.  Please come to every rehearsal with everything that you need!

Have a great week. Work hard, play hard.

Mary Sorlie