For the first time in recent memory, the high school is bringing together its string players, wind players, and percussionists to form a full orchestra ensemble and the excitement is building as they prepare for competition this spring.
“Full orchestra is the term that we use, and full orchestra just simply refers to our string players, our wind players and our percussionists. It’s basically all of the instrumentalists that come together and perform in the ensemble,” Ryan Partin, band
director, said.
Unlike a traditional band or orchestra that rehearses separately, this ensemble combines every section into one large performance group. To build the group, auditions were held for wind and percussion players a few weeks ago. Partin, orchestra director Mrs. Miller and assistant band director Mr. Teeson judged the auditions, selecting students who demonstrated strong musical ability and preparation. Luis Martinez, an oboe player, said he has loved the experience so far. He described the group as full of talented musicians and said it is exciting to finally play pieces he has always wanted to perform.
“It’s fun hearing the orchestra, plus the band parts, that make it all sound amazing,” Martinez said.
Flutist Aiden Valdivia agreed that the audition process felt straightforward and fair.
“One thing I’m most excited about is honestly just showing off the progress that we make, this is my first time in an ensemble like this so I’m excited to see how it’s gonna turn out.” Valdivia said.
Since this is Valdivia’s first time performing in a combined ensemble like this, he is eager and excited to see how it all turns out on stage. The full orchestra has been rehearsing weekly on Monday evenings for about an hour, giving students extra time outside the school day to prepare their music. These rehearsals are preparing them for the state large group contest in Dodge City this April at Dodge City High School. In addition to the full orchestra, the wind ensemble, symphonic band, and choir ensembles will also perform at the event. This opportunity marks something special. It has been several years since a full orchestra was offered, making this a unique moment for students, especially percussionists, who now have the chance to perform alongside string players in a new and challenging setting. As April approaches, the ensemble continues to rehearse with focus and enthusiasm, ready to represent Garden City on the state stage.
