We had an eventful and great practice time today. The two spectators who happened to pass by the main hall and a gentleman who came to inquire about us, grabbed a seat, formed our impromptu audience and enjoyed listening to our music. One might disagree with me, but I draw that conclusion based on the fact that they stayed around for the full 90 minutes! One of them mentioned that she could not understand how we sounded so good just after a few weeks of practice.
To my friends who say "Who wants to hear an amateur orchestra" I say: Come and check us out on Thursdays, you might even decide to stick around!
The amateur violinist who came to check us out sounded a bit discouraged by what he described as the "great" level of our play. How does one balance attracting amateur musicians of all level without intimidating them by our rising level of play? And that is my question of the day. I don't have the answer except that I'll follow-up and encourage him to join.
We take all levels in our orchestra. It's a challenge for our director to find music that is challenging for the more experienced, yet doesn't scare away the beginners. We encourage beginners to play whatever they can (even if it is only the first note of each measure) and to continue learning by following the music with their eyes. Upper level high school orchestra music usually works better than the full scores of orchestral pieces. Check with a local HS orchestra director for suggestions. (and those high school students often have parents who were string players who could join your orchestra!) sounds like you are doing a wonderful job!!! Kudos to you!!
ReplyDeleteThank you Nancy, your comments are very timely, I really appreciate them and will put them to use. We are starting to receive inquiries from HS students interested in joining us, the word is beginning to spread in the Venice area and neighboring communities. Music teachers in Venice have been very receptive to the idea of a new venue for their students to explore. Stay in touch!
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