Mekel Rogers has been involved in music education since 1995.  He is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Appalachian State University, the founding conductor of the Union Symphony Youth Orchestra, and a frequent guest clinician and adjudicator for orchestral clinics and events.  

Into the Midnight Forest is a perfect selection for a string orchestra's first concert!  Using only quarter notes and half notes in B minor (relative of D Major), the composition has a "mysterious march through the darkness" feel that students will enjoy playing.  Easy bowings, limited range, and a viola part that doubles 2nd violin, Into The Midnight Forest is a work that will make a first year orchestra sound marvelous.

Composer, Jacques Offenbach

"The Can Can" is a lively and energetic dance that originated in France in the 19th century. It became popular in Parisian music halls and is known for its high-kicking, fast-paced movements. The dance is most famously featured in the operetta Orpheus in the Underworld by Jacques Offenbach, which was first performed in 1858. In the play, the Can Can is performed in the "Infernal Galop" section, and it quickly became a symbol of fun and rebellious energy. Over time, the dance has remained an iconic part of French culture and is still performed today. 

Jacques Offenbach was a French composer and cellist, best known for his operettas. Born in Germany, he moved to Paris as a child, where he later became a key figure in French musical theatre. Offenbach's works are famous for their lively melodies, wit, and charm, blending light-hearted entertainment with sharp social satire.

He is best known for his operettas, such as Orphée aux Enfers (Orpheus in the Underworld) and La Belle Hélène, which are filled with catchy tunes and humorous plots. Offenbach's music also includes the famous Can-Can, which became a symbol of Parisian nightlife.

Though he initially struggled for recognition, Offenbach's works soon became immensely popular, making him one of the most influential composers in the 19th century. His legacy continues to influence musical theatre today.

There are many French folk songs.  However, this is a special song that was made popular by Shinichi Suzuki.  Shinichi Suzuki created a revolutionary way to teach students how to play string instruments with love and understanding.  This method creates students that are not only beautiful violin players, but ethical and critical thinking individuals in all disciplines.  French Folk Song was used in Book 1 of the cello book.