Genesee Symphony Orchestra held their String Workshop today in Batavia at the First Presbyterian Church on East Main street for local string students from the GLOW region and Erie and Niagara Counties who have acquired level III or IV status.
Led by conductor Shade Zajac, the goal of the workshop is to provide students the experience of playing together in an ensemble setting. Today was the first time all 33 students came together to learn the expressions and dynamics of the music selections from Zajac.
The students will perform along side the GSO in a concert, on Sunday May 6, at the Elba High School Auditorium at 4:00p.m.
The students have been practicing and learning the music since January with their teachers.
John Patt, a Holley 8th grader, was among the students who participated today. This is John’s 4th time playing with the GSO. John plays 1st violin, and he also plays violin and french horn in the Holley School band.
“It motivates them to continue building their string skills so they will excel in the playing of their instrument,” says Roxie Choate, String Workshop Chairperson.
Six $50.00 scholarships will also be given out during the concert on May 6th.
“We see who is working very hard, when they are totally involved in the music it shows in how they play, it shows in their expression on their faces.”
They will perform Adante Festivo/by Jean Sibelius and St. Paul’s Suite for String Orchestra by Gustav Holst.