All-Region Orchestra Concert

By Gilles Bonneau

On November 17, five GSA middle school string students performed in the All-Region orchestra concert. They had been selected through an audition in October, where over three hundred students competed, representing the best string players among several thousands in the Austin and Eanes school districts. The students who made it showcased their skills during the November concert, featuring two middle school and one high school orchestra.

Seventh graders Gabi (violin) and Ana (cello), and 6th graders Stevie (violin), Rowan (viola), and Izzi (viola) rehearsed intensively for three days with award-winning school orchestra conductor Amy Williams, whose high standards in rhythm and intonation brought the best out of the students. When their orchestra took the stage, all their efforts paid off as they performed Deborah Baker Monday’s Conquistador, Michael Hopkins’s Regal Overture, and Kathy Fishburn’s American Tribute and received a well-deserved ovation. Rowan commented, “Mrs. Williams was really nice; plus playing in a big orchestra is a lot easier than in GSA’s small groups, where everyone can hear every single note you play!”

At the end of the day, after an outstanding performance that the girls can be proud of, the lesson learned extended far beyond music: hard work pays off and creates meaningful and enjoyable achievements.