Orchestra is an experience that continues to impact students long after graduation. Some alumni of Findlay's orchestra program pursue musical opportunities in college and beyond, and many find success in varied fields such as law, education, business, politics, retail and hospitality, and not-for-profits.
Bridget Kibbey, Professional Harpist, New York City
"One of the greatest things a child can experience is imagination becoming reality—boiling up into inspiration to move mountains. On my first day of my freshman year, rehearsing with the Findlay High School Orchestra, I experienced this powerful synthesis. Being surrounded by the sound of 100 of my classmates making music together, I had the sense: 'It may be a hard road, and I don't have the skills yet to achieve it, but I want to build a life as a musician.'" – Bridget Kibbey
Bridget graduated in 1997 and played harp and oboe in the FHS Symphony Orchestra. She is a renowned harpist with an international reputation for showcasing the broad range of her instrument. She performs with orchestras around the world and is often featured with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. She is a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Avery Fisher Career Grant and the Classical Recording Foundation's 2012 Young Artist Award. A graduate of the Juilliard School, she serves on the school's faculty.
Zach Barger Attorney, Findlay, Ohio
"Quite simply, I would not be where I am today without the FHS music department, and particularly its orchestra. The instruction I received provided me with an opportunity to learn and hone my craft and ultimately helped me to acquire the skills I needed to have my undergraduate schooling paid for. Music taught me self-discipline, perseverance, time management and leadership skills, which have transferred to my professional life." --- Zach Barger
Zach graduated in 2005 and played bass in the FHS Symphony Orchestra. He majored in music at Bowling Green State University on a full ride scholarship and served as the principal bassist for the BGSU Philharmonia his junior and senior year. He then attended law school at Ohio Northern University and is now an associate attorney at Drake, Phillips, Kuenzli & Clark in Findlay. He practices in a wide variety of areas including criminal defense, domestic relations, juvenile court matters, personal injury and estate planning. He leads contemporary worship at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Findlay.
Diane Cline, Director, El Sistema, Somerville, Massachusetts
"It's incredible how much I learned about life from playing in the orchestra: discipline, dedication, patience and persistence. Everyone's part, from the first trumpet to the last chair second violin, is critical to the orchestra. It makes me so joyful to give these experiences to a new generation of students each and every day." –Diane Cline
Diane graduated in 2001 and played violin in the FHS Symphony Orchestra. She is now a director for El Sistema, a daily, intensive after school program that promotes academic achievement and character development through music excellence.
http://www.sistemasomerville.org/what-we-do
