Dear
Lorraine,
I did it! A few years ago I wrote to you, asking about starting up
a string orchestra (I'm a string/piano teacher in St. Helens, Oregon)
and you encouraged me to go for it. I was already meeting with my
little group of students, doing small ensemble pieces I'd written. So,
I invited the other string teacher in town to ask her students if they
wanted to join us, and most of them did. About 14 in total group. We
met once a month for two hours in the living room of a gracious local
piano teacher (also our cellist, age 70+) during the school year, and
gave little concert at a local church in May. It was such a great
experience.
Thank you for the encouragement!
Of course, it brings up a host of questions on my part. 80 percent
of them were beginners, and it was like herding spiders, especially if
there were any eighth notes! Sometimes we did well, but at the concert
the room was so big I think they couldn't hear each other and it wasn't
as good. I had bought a level 1+ orchestra piece from FJH music,
Celtica,but
it ended up being a super challenge. We did it anyway, and will probably
work on it again this year. My biggest need is advice on beginner music
that doesn't sound "stupid" (my opinion). They'd like to do familiar
music. I'm thinking of arranging something from "Titanic" since it's
pretty, but that will be a lot of work. I thought it would be easier to
get some suggestions from an experienced person. I know you're super
busy, but is there any way I could get some ideas from you on this?
They like the idea of familiar music, suppose it's more motivating. But
I just want something simple but musically appealing.
I'm attaching a photo of the concert, and of the livingroom where we
rehearse overlooking the Columbia River. We're starting up in October,
cuz I need to get the music together. I see you only rehearse your
beginners 45 minutes. I plan on meeting more often than once a month,
as I know once a month isn't really enough for beginners. Is the FIOP a
non-profit organization?
Well, thanks again and I hope to hear from you when you have a
chance.
Musically,
Kathy Rigall