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In this article, Nathaniel talks about the orchestra trip to New York.
carnegie Hall
carnegie Hall
By Nathaniel Lee
By Nathaniel Lee
During spring break of March 2024, the Grants Pass High School Orchestra went to New York City to participate in the 9th Annual "Sounds of Spring" International Music Festival. The GPHS Orchestra performed in Carnegie Hall, competing with three other ensembles from many different places, including a choir from the Czech Republic.
World Projects, the group that organized the festival, said that their goal is "...to present young musicians with an experience that offers the opportunity for musical growth while creating lasting memories. To enhance this experience, the performance venue chosen for the festival is the prestigious Carnegie Hall. Admission into the festival is based on audition only and is limited to four high school groups and one showcase university ensemble." Other than the GPHS Orchestra, the ensembles were: Českobudějovický Mládežnický Sbor Carmína (Czech Republic), Ayala High School String Orchestra (California), and Sherwood High School Wind Ensemble (Oregon).
The Grants Pass High School Orchestra.Photo Credits: World Projects
Krista Debolt, director of the GPHS Orchestra, conducts the ensemble. Photo Credits: World Projects
The trip was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to play in one of the best concert halls in the world. Des Flores, a violist with the orchestra, said, "It was a really amazing experience. There was so much space and it was so cool to watch the other groups as well as perform ourselves. The audience reacted well despite being small." As soon as the orchestra members entered the prestigious hall, a sense of awe fell over them that was clearly evident in their wide smiles and excited chatter.
The GPHS Orchestra had been working on the musical literature for months, and with Krista Debolt as director, there was no doubt that the performance would be spectacular. Many other parents and orchestra teachers chaperoned the trip, helping to keep it organized and a great experience for all involved.
The GPHS Orchestra warms up onstage at Carnegie Hall.Photo Credits World Projects
The Grants Pass High School won Silver at the festival, adding to the already incredible trip. The experience will be remembered by all for years to come and, even though there were some minor mishaps, the strongest memories will be the good ones.
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