The GYSO&C Podium

Noteworthy 5k on May 12

2012-02-23T14:26:00.000-08:00

Hi to everyone. Just a reminder that the Noteworthy 5k, originally scheduled for this weekend, will now be held Saturday, May 12 at 7pm. One of our GYSO concerts is the same day; take in Sinfonia, Chorus, and the Chamber Groups at 3, and then head down the road for the race!

GJH

Camerata, 2/26

2012-02-22T13:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Camerata folks. We will the entire rehearsal together this week so that we can read through everything. All players, please report directly to the Bailey Center - no need for stands. Percussionists, please arrive as usual.

Thanks,
GJH

Philharmonia, 2/26

2012-02-22T13:52:00.001-08:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

3:00 Tune

3:04 Warm up

3:15 Schubert

4:00 Break

4:10 Tune

4:15 Beethoven

5:00 Grieg (both movements)

See you then,

GJH

2012-02-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. We hope you're enjoying your week off. We're going to dive right into on Sunday:

6:15 Chaminade
6:35 Elgar
6:50 Respighi
7:10 break
7:20 Mahler

Mahler's Totenfeier is an early version of what he would later make the first movement of his second symphony. The original is very similar to the final - mostly the orchestration has changed. Check out the video below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHsFIv8VA7w

See you Sunday,
GJH

No Rehearsal This Week!

2012-02-19T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Congratulations on a great concert last weekend, and a reminder that we have no rehearsal this week. We will start up again next week, Feb. 26 (Feb. 28 for Chorus, Feb. 29 for Jazz).

See you then,
GJH

Call times for this weekend

2012-02-10T19:43:00.001-08:00

Hi to all, and good luck on this weekend's concerts. In case you didn't see the email, here are the call times once again:

Saturday, Feb. 11:Sinfonia, 1:30pm
Chamber groups, 2pm
Chorus, 2:15pm

Sunday, Feb. 12:Philharmonia, 2:45pm
Jazz, 3:15pm

Camerata, 6pm
Percussion Ensemble, 6:30pm
Symphony, 7:15pm

Thanks,
GJH

Ballet performance this week!

2012-01-31T22:10:00.000-08:00

Dear GYSO Symphony ballet players,

Here's a reminder of the schedule this week:

Thursday, Feb. 2, 7:30-8:30pm (rehearsal)
Saturday, Feb. 4, 10-11am (rehearsal)
Saturday, Feb. 4, 7pm (performance)

All events are at the Murray Arts Center (2250 Stilesboro Rd, Kennesaw, 30152). If you haven't been there, it's on the campus of the Mount Paran Christian School. Enter through the lower (lakeside) doors. When you arrive at the Murray Center, there will be signs pointing you where you need to go.

Dress for the performance is all black.

Because this performance is a fundraiser for the Georgia Ballet, there are unfortunately no comp tickets available for us. You can purchase tickets at georgiaballet.org.

Let us know if you have questions - we look forward to seeing you Thursday.

GJH

Symphony, 2/5

2012-01-31T16:47:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Good rehearsal Sunday - we're going to have a great concert in a couple weeks. Here's Sunday's schedule:

4:30-5:15: Marcello with Ms. Koch
5:15: Liszt run-through
5:35: Liszt rehearsal
6:00: break
6:10: Bernstein run-through
6:20: Bernstein rehearsal

District 12 Honor Band folks - please arrive as soon as possible, and please let us know in advance when you expect to be able to get here.

Thanks,
GJH

Philharmonia, 2/5

2012-01-31T16:27:00.001-08:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

Hello PHIL musicians,

The Borodin Overture to Prince Igor will be performed in its entirety for the concert. Please prepare your parts accordingly. If you have any questions, please email me at cthibdeau@georgiasymphony.org.

Clarinets, Violas, and Cellos - please have your solos and exposed parts ready!

The rehearsal schedule for next week is:

2:30 TUNE

2:34 Mendelssohn run

2:40 Sibelius run

2:50 Borodin

3:30 BREAK

3:40 Tune

3:44 Borodin

5:00 END

GJH

Symphony, 1/29

2012-01-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

Hi Symphony folks. Thanks for a good rehearsal Sunday. Our little ballet orchestra is going to sound fantastic. Here's Sunday's schedule:

6:15 Marcello 1 and 3
6:40 Liszt - spot-check, based on rough spots from last week's run-through.
7:35 break
7:45 Bernstein 1
7:55 Bernstein 2
8:10 Bernstein 2 and 3 (ballet players only)

See you then,
GJH

Camerata, 1/29

2012-01-25T14:24:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Camerata will again this week be meeting all together for the entire rehearsal at the Bailey Center. Camerata will rehearse on stage this week, not in the rehearsal hall.

GJH

GYSO Concerto results!

2012-01-25T14:15:00.000-08:00

Hello to all. We're proud to announce that this year's winner of the GYSO&C Concerto Competition is Catherine Rothery. Catherine is a junior in Symphony and will be performing the Chaminade Concertino for flute and orchestra on our May concert. Congratulations to her and to all of our talented applicants!

GJH

Jazz, Jan. 25

2012-01-24T20:58:00.000-08:00

No rehearsal tomorrow night (Jan. 25) for Jazz! Both the director and several of the students will be attending GMEA, and we won't have sufficient numbers to make rehearsal worthwhile. We will be back at the usual time next week.

Thanks,
GJH

Philharmonia, 1/22

2012-01-21T14:31:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Philharmonia tomorrow will be having sectionals for the first hour. Strings, please report to the Bailey Center as usual - we will show you where to go. All winds, you can report directly to the Music Building where your sectional will be. It's down the hill from Bailey, at the corner of Owl and Bartow. Percussionists, please arrive at the usual time and place. All students will finish rehearsal at Bailey as normal.

Thanks,
GJH

Camerata, 1/22

2012-01-20T11:45:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Camerata will again be all together for the full time this week. All players please report directly to the Bailey Center. Percussionists, please report at your usual time.

Thanks,
GJH

Symphony, 1/22

2012-01-18T15:13:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. This week we will use the end of the rehearsal for just the ballet folks, meaning we'll move the Marcello to the beginning of rehearsal. Non-ballet winds in particular will have a short rehearsal this week.

6:15 Marcello 2 and 3
6:40 Liszt - run-through, followed by spot checks
7:40 break
7:50 Bernstein 1,3 (tutti)
8:15 Bernstein 2,3 (ballet players only)

See you then,
GJH

Camerata notes for this week

2012-01-18T14:29:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. We'll have a more specific Camerata schedule shortly. Here are some tips from Dr. Bell:

Here are a few specifics for your practicing this week:

Great Locomotive Chase: Brass

London Symphony: Strings - work on eighth note runs, accidentals and passages outside 1st position. Simplify if needed

Furiant: All - accidentals and rhythms involving ties

Tips on how to practice:

1. practice slowly

2. mark in reminders

3. feel free to simplify parts you can't play

4. practice your part every day

Thanks,

GJH

Camerata, 1/15

2012-01-11T14:14:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Camerata this week will be all together the whole time. Winds, please report directly to Bailey, no stands necessary.

From Dr. Bell:

Thanks for a great rehearsal last Sunday - you came back for the holidays better prepared than I expected! However, we still have a lot of work to do. This Sunday I want to do a "practice concert" during rehearsal so make sure you can play all of your notes and rhythms. Pay close attention to key signatures and accidentals.

Thanks!

GJH

Symphony, 1/15

2012-01-10T15:56:00.000-08:00

Hello Symphony. Good rehearsal last weekend. Here's this Sunday:

6:15 Bernstein 1
6:30 Bernstein 2
6:50 Bernstein 3
7:35 break
7:45 Liszt 344-end
8:05 Liszt 47-109 (violins, look at this)
8:25 Marcello 1

See you then,
GJH

Philharmonia, 1/15

2012-01-10T15:07:00.000-08:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

Hi Philharmonia!

Great rehearsal, let's keep the hard work up. See below for next week's rehearsal schedule and assignments.

Clarinets and Horns - practice playing with a big sound! Keep the air moving through the instrument.

Strings - practice slowly and carefully, taking runs in small chunks, practicing individual shifts and small groups of notes.

See you Sunday!

3:00 Tune

3:04 Warm Up

3:15 Mendelssohn

4:00 Break

4:10 Tune

4:14 Borodin - opening to H

Please have prepared:

-Brass (trumpets especially): Allegro (after A), staggered entrances

-Violins: melody at B, quintuplets leading into C

-Violas: letter C, letter F

-Clarinets: solo at letter C

-Flutes: melody 21 after letter C

-Violins: melody 22 before letter D

-Strings: letter D

-Tutti: key change after letter D

-Flutes/Clarinets: 17 after letter F

4:45 Borodin - H to M

Please have prepared:

-Cellos/Basses: letter H - 8 before K

-Bassoons: 9 after letter I - 8 before K

-Violins/Violas: letter K to L

-Tutti: L to M

GJH

Philharmonia, 1/8

2012-01-06T08:23:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Here is the schedule for Philharmonia this Sunday.

3:00 Tune

3:04 Warm Up

3:15 Mendelssohn

3:35 Borodin

4:00 Break

4:10 Tune

4:04 Borodin

5:15 Sibelius

Thanks,

GJH

Camerata, 1/8

2012-01-05T13:58:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. We will follow our usual split schedule this week: strings in Bailey and winds down the hill for the first hour. Winds, remember your music stands.

From Dr. Bell:

We only have 5 rehearsals left before our next concert, so you need to be sure to come to each rehearsal well prepared. Before this week's rehearsal please make sure you have fingerings marked in all passages in difficult keys and in passages with numerous accidentals. Also please practice these passages slowly for intonation. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday!

Thanks!

GJH

Peter Slowik master class

2012-01-04T12:09:00.000-08:00

For all string players. Below is an opportunity that may (and should) interest you. If you'd like to participate, let me know, and I'll point you in the right direction. (Note that it takes place on a GYSO Sunday - check your schedule carefully.)

Thanks,

GJH

I am excited to announce that Peter Slowik, head of the String Division at Oberlin Conservatory, will be coming to give a free master class for local student musicians in collaboration with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Slowik will also hold an information session on the audition process for parents and students. Both special events will take place on January 22, 2012 at the Woodruff Arts Center. I have attached a brochure for the 2012 Credo Chamber Music Program and the master class schedule. In addition, auditions for the 2012 Credo Summer Music Program will be held immediately following the master class on January 22, 2012 from 3:30pm to 7:00pm in the Circle Room on the 3^rdFloor at the Woodruff Arts Center. Auditions will be free for all student musicians.

During the master class, Mr. Slowik will work with students to refine their practicing skills. He has requested for 2-4 string student musicians to volunteer to perform a piece that is a “work in progress.” If you would like to volunteer to play a piece that has not been polished (2 contrasting movements 2-3 minutes max) for the master class,please contact me.

Symphony, 1/8

2012-01-03T18:22:00.000-08:00

Hello to all, and welcome back. We're looking forward to seeing you again. Here's the rehearsal schedule for Sunday - we'll work backward through the Bernstein before hitting the middle of the Liszt.

6:15 Bernstein 3
7:00 Bernstein 2
7:20 Bernstein 1
7:35 break
7:45 Liszt 109-181
8:05 Liszt 182-260 (horn 2/3/4, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion can leave)
8:25 Marcello 1

See you then,
GJH

Camerata, 12/11

2011-12-09T11:23:00.001-08:00

Hi to all. We'll have the same schedule this week as we did for last week: all winds start in Music Building 109 for the first hour, strings in Bailey. For the second hour, we'll have strings, winds, and percussion together at Bailey.

Winds, please bring music stands!

Thanks,
GJH

Philharmonia, 12/11

2011-12-09T11:21:00.000-08:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

3:00 Tune

3:04 Warm up

3:15 Mendelssohn - ALL

4:00 Break

4:10 Tune

4:15 Finlandia - ALL

4:45 Borodin - opening to Letter E

See you then,

GJH

Symphony, 12/11

2011-12-06T18:48:00.000-08:00

Hi to all. Here's the Symphony schedule for the final rehearsal of 2011:

6:15 Liszt - 260 to the end
7:00 Bernstein - mvmt 2
7:30 break
7:40 Bernstein - mvmt 3
8:25 Marcello - mvmt 3

On the Town was made into a movie in 1949. They dispensed with much of the original music but kept a few of the hits. Here's a clip that includes some of the tunes you'll find in the 3rd movement of our suite.

See you Sunday,
GJH

GYSO Chorus - Congratulations!

2011-12-06T18:42:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the members of the GYSO Chorus who performed at our Holiday Pops concert this weekend at Zion Baptist Church. You sounded great and your performance was an audience favorite. The Georgia Symphony family includes a large variety of programs, and the Holiday concert brings together the GSO and GSO Chorus at Zion, one of our favorite venues. It's wonderful to have GYSO represented as well.

Thanks,
GJH

Camerata, 12/4

2011-11-30T14:55:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Camerata this week will start with the typical divided winds and strings arrangement: woodwinds and brass please report directly to the Music Building, strings to Bailey. Everyone will finish up at the Bailey Center. Percussionists, arrive at the usual time.

Thanks,
GJH

Symphony schedule, 12/4

2011-11-30T14:53:00.000-08:00

Hello to all. We'll be starting the Bernstein this week - remember to bring your availability sheets for the Georgia Ballet performance. Here's an old recording with Bernstein conducting to whet your appetite.

6:15 Liszt - opening to 66, 260 to the end
7:15 Bernstein
7:35 break
7:45 Bernstein
8:25 Marcello

See you then,
GJH

Philharmonia schedule, 12/4

2011-11-30T14:47:00.000-08:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

3:00 Tune

3:04 Mendelssohn

4:00 Break

4:10 Tune

4:04 Sibelius

5:10 Borodin

Thanks,

GJH

Schedule for the holidays

2011-11-19T20:26:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Here is a review of our schedule over the next few weeks:

Sunday groups:

We will have rehearsal Nov. 20 (tomorrow), Dec. 4, and Dec. 11. There is no rehearsal Nov. 27. Our winter break comprises the three Sundays of Dec. 18, Dec. 25, and Jan. 1. We will start rehearsal again Jan. 8.

Chorus/Jazz:

There is no rehearsal Nov. 22/23 (this coming week). We will have rehearsal Nov. 29/30, Dec. 6/7, and Dec. 13/14. We will break from that point until we start up rehearsals again Jan. 10/11.

Chorus – Holiday Pops:

The extra rehearsal for this performance will be Friday, Dec. 2, from 6:30 to 7:30. (The orchestral portion of this rehearsal begins at 7:30; you will only need to stick around for it if you’d like a chance to go through the carol sing-along.) The concert is at 3:00 Saturday, Dec. 3. Call time is 2:00. These events are all at Zion Baptist Church in Marietta.

Thanks,

Grant

Camerata, 11/20

2011-11-18T11:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Camerata folks. We will be separating winds and strings for the first hour this week. Woodwinds and brass, please report first to Music Building 109. The orchestra will be all together after break.

See you then,
GJH

Symphony, 11/20

2011-11-17T12:44:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. We have one more week before the Bernstein arrives, so we'll be diving face-first into the meaty central section of the Liszt:

6:15 Liszt, ms. 67-343
7:30 break
7:40 More Liszt!
8:15 Marcello (strings only)

Here's a video of the Liszt (part 1 and 2) played by the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, Daniel Barenboim's effort to get young musicians from the Middle East talking to each other.

For those of you interested in the whole Brahms/Liszt/Wagner/Hanslick debate among the 19th-century Germans (and I know you all are!), here's a summary of it.

See you Sunday,
GJH

Camerata, 11/13

2011-11-09T12:08:00.000-08:00

Hi Camerata folks. This week we'll be all together for the whole rehearsal, so that we can get a sense of how the pieces sound before we start splitting into sectionals in the following weeks. Percussionists, as usual, arrive at 4:00.

See you then,
GJH

Philharmonia, 11/13

2011-11-09T12:06:00.000-08:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

3:00PM Tune

3:04PM Warm up

3:15PM Sibelius

4:00PM Break

4:10PM Tune

4:14PM Sibelius

4:50PM Mendelssohn

Thanks,

GJH

Symphony schedule, 11/13

2011-11-08T22:05:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. We hope you've enjoyed your week off and are looking forward to the next round of music. We'll be doing three pieces on this program, but one is rental, so we won't be starting that one until December. Here's the schedule for Sunday:

6:15 Liszt
7:30 break
7:40 Liszt
8:15 Marcello (strings only)

See you then,
GJH

No Rehearsal This Week!

2011-11-04T20:04:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone, and congratulations once again for a fine set of first concerts last weekend. We've set a high standard for our remaining performances and don't doubt that we'll meet it.

Just a reminder: no rehearsal this coming week, for any GYSO&C ensembles. We will see you again the week of Nov. 13.

Best,
GJH

Concert Info Recap

2011-10-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. This went out via email last week, but here it is on the blog, for easy access:

Dear GYSO&C,
I hope you're all excited for the upcoming concert on Sunday, October 30. Here are some things to know:

Location:
The concert will be at the Bailey Center at Kennesaw State University, in the Performance Hall. (directions)  Chorus, do not go to FUMC, Sinfonia, do not go the Murray Center. If you haven't been to the Bailey Center, don't worry; we'll have signs and interns to help point you in the right direction.

Parking:
Parking is unrestricted on Sundays; park in any of the lots close to the Bailey Center. Parents may find it useful to drop students off before parking. Note that lobby seating at Bailey is extremely limited. We will try to open the hall in a timely manner, but we can not guarantee a place to sit prior to the opening of the hall.

Call times, 3:00 Saturday Concert:
Sinfonia: 1:30 on stage
Chamber groups: 2:00 in rehearsal hall

Concert order is Chamber groups, Sinfonia.

Call Times, 4:00 Sunday Concert:
Jazz: 2:30 on stage
Chorus: 3:00 on stage
Philharmonia: 4:00 in the audience, report to rehearsal hall after Chorus portion of performance

Concert order is Chorus, Jazz, Philharmonia.

Call Times, 7:30 Sunday Concert:
Camerata: 6:00 on stage
Percussion: 6:30 on stage
Symphony: 7:30 in rehearsal hall

Concert order is Camerata, Percussion Ensemble, Symphony.

Dress:
Concert dress is all black for ladies. Gentlemen should wear either a black suit or tuxedo, or all black. See the handbook for details.

Coats and cases:
Store these along the wall in the rehearsal hall.

Tickets:
If you haven't already, you can purchase tickets ($5 each) from the box office at the Bailey Center at the concert. The will call will also be located there. You can still get tickets in advance at our website; remember to purchase tickets for the correct concert.  The 7:30 concert in particular may be crowded. We strongly recommend that you buy tickets in advance. Online ticket purchases will end Thursday, October 27 at midnight.

Cameras:
For logistical and legal reasons, we discourage videotaping of performances. If you would like to record, you must be in the designated area at the side of the hall. If you record from outside this area, the ushers will ask you to move.

Music:
After the concert, students should take their music off stage with them and turn it in to our librarian backstage. (Our interns will show which way to go.) Orchestras will also receive music for the next concert at that point. Please do not leave without turning in your music to the librarian.

Volunteers:We rely on parents to help with ushering and box office for the concerts. Please let us know if you can help, and thanks to those of you who already have.    Volunteers do not have to pay for their ticket.

As always, let me know if you have questions.

Thanks,
GJH

Philharmonia schedule, 10/23

2011-10-21T09:53:00.001-07:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

3:00PM Tune

3:04PM Warm up

3:15PM Borodin

4:00PM Break

4:10PM Tune

4:14PM Strauss

5:00PM Verdi

Thanks,

GJH

Camerata notes

2011-10-18T11:54:00.000-07:00

From Dr. Bell:

Thanks for a very productive rehearsal on Sunday! Here are a few things to work on in your practice this week as we work toward our concert.

Bach: Watch key signature in the winds and high notes at the end in the strings

Copland: Watch key signature in the Ab section

Beethoven: Notes and rhythms - simplify your part if needed.

Brahms: Be confident with repeats. Notes and rhythms - simplify your part if needed.

Thanks,

GJH

Symphony schedule, 10/23

2011-10-18T08:52:00.000-07:00

But first, your vocabulary lesson for the week. From our good friends at Merriam-Webster:
Ardent (adj.): characterized by warmth of feeling typically expressed in eager zealous support or activity

Literally, it means to be on fire over something - ardent and arson are etymological relatives.

It's our last rehearsal, so we're going to run the show straight through. However, we want the percussionists there for that, so we're going to put the run-through in the middle.

6:15 Brahms
7:10 short break
7:15 run-through
7:50 short break
7:55 Glinka and Prokofiev as necessary

See you then,
GJH

Symphony schedule, 10/16

2011-10-11T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Good rehearsal on Sunday - I think we got a good sense of where we are. Much of the Glinka and Prokofiev are in good shape, so we'll be putting a lot of time in on the Brahms this week.

6:15 Prokofiev (various excerpts)
6:45 Brahms
7:30 break
7:40 Brahms
8:10 Glinka
8:30 Prokofiev 3 (violin, viola, cello only)

See you then,
GJH

Camerata, next two weeks

2011-10-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

To all Camerata folks:

Now that we're approaching concert #1, we will no longer be dividing into sectionals for the first hour. All players should report directly to Bailey at 3pm and will be staying there for the full two hours. Percussionists should arrive at the usual time.

Thanks,
GJH

Camerata, 10/9

2011-10-08T11:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Camerata folks. Thanks for your great work in sectionals last week. Tomorrow we'll return to the schedule we used the previous week, with brass players only (with stands and pencils) down in the Music Building for the first hour and all others in the Bailey Center the whole time. Percussionists, please arrive (as usual) for the second half of rehearsal.

See you tomorrow,
GJH

Symphony schedule, 10/9

2011-10-05T13:46:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Only 3 rehearsals left. This Sunday we'll be playing every note of our program, in program order, to see where we're at (followed by rehearsing specific places):

6:15 Glinka
6:35 Prokofiev 1,2,3
7:25 break
7:35 Prokofiev 4,5
8:05 Brahms

See you then,
GJH

Philharmonia schedule, 10/9

2011-10-05T13:43:00.001-07:00

From Mr. Thibdeau

3:00 Tune

3:04 Warm Up

3:15 Borodin: rehearsal 7 to the end

4:00 Break

4:10 Tune

4:14 Strauss: "Nr. 4" to the end

5:15 Verdi: 28 to the end

Thanks,

GJH

Camerata, 10/2

2011-09-28T15:24:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. We're having sectionals this week, so when you arrive at the Bailey Center, we'll lead you where you need to go. Everyone, including the brass, should come straight to Bailey. Percussionists, you are not called for Camerata; please arrive in time for Percussion Ensemble.

From Dr. Bell:

Thanks for a very productive rehearsal. Next week we will be having sectionals so please continue to work diligently on your parts. There are two cuts we are making in the music so make sure you have these marked in your parts. In the Beethoven cut from after measure 21 to measure 153. In the Brahms cut from letter F to letter H.

Thanks,

GJH

Symphony schedule, 10/2

2011-09-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

Hi guys. This is for Sunday:

6:15 Glinka: beginning to F2
6:45 Brahms: beginning to (14 before I)
7:45 break
7:55 Prokofiev 1
8:20 Prokofiev 5

See you then,
GJH

Philharmonia schedule, 10/2

2011-09-27T11:59:00.000-07:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

Here is next Sunday's Rehearsal Order (no harp/percussion):

3:00PM TUNE

3:04PM Playing tests!

Verdi

Violins: 20

Borodin

Clarinets Opening

Horn 11 bars before rehearsal 1 (first entrance)

Woodwinds B

C-D

Cellos E, 8, 10

Violins 7, 9

Violas 8

Flute solo 14

4:00 Break

4:10 Tune

4:14 Playing tests!

Strauss

Horns Opening

Woodwinds, Violins "Tempo di Valse" (8 bars before rehearsal 2)

Woodwinds, Trumpets "Nr. 3"

Woodwinds, 6, "Coda II"

Flutes, Oboes "Nr. 5"

Horns, Tuba/Trombones 4 bars before 8, 4 bars before 9

First Violins 3, "Nr. 2", 5, "Nr. 3", 6, 7, "Nr. 5", 8, 9,

Time left over will be spent on rehearsing:

Strauss:

Woodwinds/Brass 12

First Violins "Coda II", 11, 14, 19

Second Violins 14, 19

Remember, if your section sounds good, we won't have to go down stand by stand!

Practice slowly, measure by measure and gradually build up to tempo.

You can do it!

GJH

Camerata, 9/25

2011-09-23T09:56:00.001-07:00

Hi Camerata folks. We'll be using the same schedule as last week: woodwinds and strings in the Bailey Center for the full two hours; brass starting down the hill (with stands and pencils) in the Music Building before heading up to Bailey for the second half. Percussionists are as usual.

See you then,
GJH

Philharmonia schedule, 9/25

2011-09-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here is your Sunday schedule, courtesy of Mr. Thibdeau:

3:00 tune
3:04 Verdi playing tests!

brass - opening, #2, #6
oboe/clarinet - #7
violins - #13-#16, #19-#21
woodwinds - #21

4:00 break

4:10 tune

4:14 Borodin playing tests!

all parts - C-D
cello - E, #8, #10
violins - #7, #9
viola - #8

Happy practicing,

GJH

Symphony schedule, 9/25

2011-09-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here is the Symphony rehearsal schedule for Sunday. Please look over these passages before then - strings, the Brahms excerpt in particular has some of the most difficult work we're doing this concert.

6:15 Brahms: (14 before I) until L
7:00 Glinka: (25 after F) to the end
7:25 break
7:35 Prokofiev 4
8:10 Prokofiev 5 (60 to the end)
8:35 Prokofiev 2 (18 to the end)

Thanks,
GJH

Symphony schedule, 9/18

2011-09-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here's the rehearsal schedule this week. As I've mentioned in the past, Brahms incorporates a number of student songs into Academic Festival Overture. We're rehearsing the end this week, when "Gaudeamus Igitur" comes in. Here's a version where they actually bring in a chorus to sing during the final passage:

Brahms with chorus (BBC, Davis)

6:15 Brahms: Maestoso to the end (final 3/4), M to the final 3/4, F to 14 before I (if time)
7:15 Glinka: K to the end
7:35 break
7:45 Prokofiev 3
8:20 Prokofiev 4 (trumpets, piccolo, horn 4 leave)

See you then,
GJH

Philharmonia schedule, 9/18

2011-09-14T09:37:00.001-07:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

3:00 Tune

3:04 Warm up

3:15 Strauss, waltz 4 - rehearsal 13

4:00 Break

4:10 Tune

4:13 Borodin, rehearsal C - End

5:00 Verdi, Rehearsal 14 - End

Thanks,

GJH

Camerata this week

2011-09-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. We're going to do something slightly different from usual this week: we'll have just the brass down in the Music Building for the first hour, with the woodwinds and strings spending the whole time in Bailey. So woodwinds, head straight to Bailey (no folding stands necessary!), and brass, report first to the Music Building, stands and pencils in hand. Percussionists, you're in by 4:15 as usual.

A note from Dr. Bell:

Camerata Members,

Thank you for your hard work as we continue to put together our program. Here are a few points to consider as you practice this week:

1.Make sure you are finding plenty of time to practice your part. If you need help on a particular section please ask you private teacher, your school director or I will be glad to help you before rehearsal on Sundays. I am usually in the rehearsal room by 2:15.

2. Make sure you are very familiar with the fingerings for the keys of each piece and for the fingerings for any accidentals found in the pieces.

3. Be careful with counting as you practice - particularly longer and dotted note values.

4. We will be focusing on the Brahms (including the section from H to the end), Bach and Copland this week but keep working on the Beethoven.

5. Make sure you are on time for rehearsal - that means in your seat ready to play at 3:00.

Have a great week and I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.

Camerata rehearsal for this week

2011-09-07T14:33:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here are the sections Dr. Bell will be working on for this week's Camerata rehearsal. Percussionists, please be ready by 4:15 as per usual.

Brahms - beginning to letter F

Beethoven - beginning to m. 152

Bach - 2 to end

Copland - beginning to 20

See you then,

GJH

Symphony schedule, 9/11

2011-09-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here's this week's Symphony schedule:

6:15 Glinka: review (C1 - F1), rehearse (19 after B - C1) and (25 after H - I)
6:50 Brahms: rehearse (10 before F - 14 before I), review (opening - F) if time
7:35 break
7:45 Prokofiev: rehearse mvmt 5
8:20 violin, viola, cello only - "Fun with Ricochet" (check out Prokofiev 3 and 5)
8:45 end

All besides violin, viola, and cello will be done at 8:20.

See you then,
GJH

Philharmonia schedule, 9/11

2011-09-06T19:17:00.000-07:00

From Mr. Thibdeau:

3:00 TUNE

3:04 Warmup

3:15 Borodin, opening - rehearsal 9

3:45 Verdi, rehearsal 7 - allegro (measure 108)

4:00 BREAK

4:15 TUNE

4:19 Verdi, brass chorales: opening-1, rehearsal 2, 6-7

4:40 Verdi, rehearsal 13-16

5:10 Verdi, if necessary, Violins only, 19-20

5:30 END

(No harp required this week.)

Just a note: I'll be working with you after break this week, in Mr. Thibdeau's stead. Looking forward to it!

GJH

Symphony - a few videos for Labor Day weekend

2011-08-30T10:57:00.001-07:00

Hello Symphony folks. No rehearsal this weekend, so here are a few videos you can check out having to do with rep we're playing this concert.

First of all, here's a recording of Gaudeamus Igitur, the big hymn that shows up at the end of Academic Festival Overture. Another tune Brahms uses is "Wir hatten gebauet ein stattliches Haus" - this is the one with the big trumpet trio we rehearsed Sunday. One we didn't get to Sunday is "Was kommt dort von der Hoh."

And for those of you with an odd 80 minutes to spare, here's the original movie Lieutenant Kije. It's just the thing if you're into grainy black-and-white Russian hijinks, but it also gives you a good sense of where all the tunes in the Suite we're playing come from.

See you in a couple weeks,
GJH

Camerata - some notes from Dr. Bell

2011-08-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

Camerata Members:

Thank you so much for your hard work in getting us off to a great start! I was very impressed with the improvement we made from the first rehearsal to the second. Here are a few things to focus on in your

practicing this week:

1. Listen to a recording of the Brahms (Variations on a Theme of Haydn) and the Beethoven (5th Symphony - 4th Movement) - Even though we are playing arrangements of these, you can still get a lot out of listening.

2. Work on scales and arpeggios in the more unfamiliar keys we are using: the Bach for the winds and the Ab section in the Copland for the strings.

3. Keep focusing on the notes and rhythms in the Beethoven and the Brahms. In the Brahms we will not be doing the 3rd variation so just work on the remainder of the piece.

I look forward to seeing you in two weeks!

Dr. Bell

GYSO&C Concert schedule

2011-08-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

This was sent out in the email this week, but it's important enough to list here in a more permanent place.

GYSO&C Concert Schedule, 2011-2012:

Saturday, October 29, 3pm: Sinfonia, Chamber groups
Sunday, October 30, 4pm: Chorus, Jazz, Philharmonia
Sunday, October 30, 7:30pm: Percussion Ensemble, Camerata, Symphony

Saturday, February 11, 3pm: Chorus, Sinfonia, Chamber groups
Sunday, February 12, 4pm: Jazz, Philharmonia
Sunday, February 12, 7:30pm: Percussion Ensemble, Camerata, Symphony

Saturday, May 12, 3pm: Chorus, Sinfonia, Chamber groups
Sunday, May 13, 4pm: Jazz, Philharmonia
Sunday, May 13, 7:30pm: Percussion Ensemble, Camerata, Symphony

Thanks,
GJH

GYSO Symphony, Rehearsal Schedule (8/28), plus videos

2011-08-23T10:11:00.000-07:00

And here is the Symphony schedule for this Sunday:

6:15: Brahms, beginning - 20 after F
7:00: Prokofiev, 1 (Birth of Kije)*
7:30: break
7:40: Prokofiev, 5 (Interment of Kije)*
8:15: Glinka, 15 after C - 32 after F, Piu mosso to the end
8:45: done

*Note: there is no harp or piano in these two movements.

And here are some videos for you to watch. Highly recommended that you do so, especially if you don't already know this music well. It will cut your practice time in half.

Brahms: Academic Festival Overture (Bernstein and the Vienna Philharmonic)

Prokofiev:
Birth of Kije
Kije's Wedding
Troika and Romance
Interment of Kije
(various artists)

Glinka: Overture to Russlan and Ludmilla (with the Berlin Philharmonic and Zubin Mehta)
I also have to recommend this video, which I can't stop watching, due to the combination of the wickedly fast tempo, Gergiev's hair, and the "conducting-while-holding-a-giant-bouquet" thing.

See you Sunday,
GJH

GYSO Philharmonia - Rehearsal Schedule (8/28), plus videos

2011-08-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here is the rehearsal schedule for Philharmonia for August 28:

3:00: tune
3:07: warm-up
3:20: Verdi, opening to #3
3:45: Verdi, #7 to Allegro
4:05: break (percussionists arrive)
4:15: Verdi, #14 to #16
4:30: Strauss, opening to #3
5:00: Borodin, opening to E
5:30: end

Mr. Thibdeau recommends that you watch the following videos online:

Verdi, Nabucco Overture:
If you're interested to see how fast it can be played!

Strauss, Blue Danube Waltz

New Year's, Vienna, 1987 - watch and listen to the flexibility of the orchestra.

Borodin, In the Steppes of Central Asia

See you then,

GJH

Welcome to the 2011-2012 season of GYSO&C!

2011-06-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome to all of you as we begin the 6th season of the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. We finished last year with a great set of concerts on May 15, and we look forward to more successes to come. Over the course of the 450 auditions last month, it became clear we have an inundation of wonderful talent for the coming year. Returning members, we appreciate your sustained commitment and the continued sharing of your gifts. New folks, we look forward to seeing and hearing everything that you will bring to the program.

The GYSO&C Podium is your source for general news about GYSO&C, so we encourage you to check in frequently or become a follower. (See previous posts for the sort of information you'll find.) Particularly urgent news is sent in email bulletins as well. As always, head to <georgiasymphony.org> to find more static information, such as the calendar for the year and forms to fill out.

Perhaps our biggest news at this point in the summer is the introduction of three new members to our artistic staff. While we were sad to see Ashley Scott and Peter Lemonds depart, we're delighted to welcome our new directors:

Christopher Thibdeau (Philharmonia and Librarian) has been recently appointed as the conductor of the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra Philharmonia. Previously, Christopher has served as the associate conductor of the Brighton Symphony Orchestra, the assistant conductor of the Central Kentucky Youth Orchestra, the cover conductor of the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra and the cover conductor of the Firelands Symphony Orchestra. As an educator, Christopher has presented workshops and educational concerts for students in New York, Connecticut, Maine and Kentucky. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Cello Performance from the Eastman School of Music where he studied with Alan Harris and a Master of Music degree in Orchestral Conducting from the Cleveland Institute of Music where he studied with Carl Topilow.

Dr. Richard Bell (Camerata) is a member of the music faculty at Reinhardt University where he is conductor of the Reinhardt Symphony and Director of the Reinhardt University String Project. He holds bachelors and masters degrees from Florida State University and a doctorate from theUniversity of Georgia. Prior to joining the Reinhardt faculty in the fall of 2010 Dr. Bell taught middle school and high school orchestra in the Clayton County and Henry County schools for 29 years. He expanded the program into many Clayton County schools and began the program in Henry County – leaving upon his retirement a program with over 700 students and four teachers. During his public school career groups under his direction performed for the Georgia Music Educators In-Service Conference, the Southern Division MENC Conference and the National Festival of the States. He has earned many honors and awards during his career, including the STAR Teacher Award, the Atlanta Journal Constitution Honor Teacher Nomination, the Wal-Mart Foundation Teacher of the Year Award and the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation Award. He is also a past president of the Georgia Music Educators Association, conductor of the Southern Crescent Symphony and the minister of music at the First Baptist Church of Morrow. He has numerous publications and commissions for school string orchestras at all levels and has presented sessions at the Georgia Music Educators In-Service Conference, the American String Teachers Association National Conference, the Music Educators National Conference and for numerous school systems throughout

Georgia

.

Whitney Tinley (Sinfonia) is the director of the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra’s Sinfonia ensemble and Orchestra Director at Shiloh Middle School in Gwinnett County. She also serves as the coordinator for Georgia’s 11^th and 12^th grade All-State Orchestra as well as for Gwinnett County’s 6^th grade Honors Orchestra. She has worked as the bass coach for the Gwinnett County Youth Honors Orchestra and has served as a conductor and bass instructor and ENCORE and ASTA orchestra camps. She maintains an active string bass studio and a career as a freelance bassist. She is a member of the Saint Cecilia Saints, the orchestra for the First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. Ms. Tilney graduated from DePauw University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education, and has her Masters in Music Education from the University of Georgia.

We hope you will welcome them as we welcome you. Enjoy your summer, and we'll see you in a few weeks!

GJH

Our final concert is upon us!

2011-05-11T14:33:00.000-07:00

We hope you're excited. Here are the times for students to arrive. All concerts will be at the Bailey Center at Kennesaw State University.

Call Times for Sunday, May 15:
1:45 Jazz
2:00 Chorus
3:00 All Philharmonia groups

3:00 - Concert: Chorus, Jazz, Philharmonia Winds, Philharmonia

4:30 Sinfonia
4:45 Camerata Winds
5:00 Camerata

5:30 - Concert: Camerata Winds, Sinfonia, Camerata

6:30 Percussion Ensemble
7:00 Symphony

7:30 - Concert: Percussion Ensemble, Symphony

Good luck, and see you then,
GJH

Rehearsal Schedule, May 8 - Philharmonia, Symphony, Percussion Ensemble

2011-05-04T21:02:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here's Sunday. Note that we'll be changing rooms.

Philharmonia:
3:00 strings/harp in rehearsal hall, winds/percussion on stage
4:00 break
4:10 Tutti orchestra in rehearsal hall, (saxes on stage)
(No Copland, only Tchaikovsky)

Percussion Ensemble:
5:30 Usual time on stage

Symphony:
6:15 Vaughan Williams in rehearsal hall
6:45 Dvorak (run-through) in rehearsal hall
7:30 break
7:40 Dvorak rehearse as needed on stage

See you then,
GJH

Rehearsal Schedule, May 1 - Philharmonia and Symphony

2011-04-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

Hi to all, and welcome back! Only two rehearsals left until our Grand Finale.

Here's what Sunday's going to look like for Philharmonia and Symphony; both will follow the typical schedule.

Philharmonia:
3:00 Strings/harp on stage (Vaughan Williams), winds/percussion in rehearsal hall
4:00 break
4:10 Copland
4:40 Tchaikovsky

Symphony:
6:15 Dvorak 2
6:45 Dvorak 3
7:00 Dvorak 4
7:30 break
7:40 Dvorak 4
8:00 Vaughan Williams (strings), Dvorak (winds/percussion)

See you then,
GJH

Happy Saturday!

2011-04-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. We hope you are enjoying your non-GYSO weekend. Here's a note from eminent cellist Yo-Yo Ma:

Dear Friends,

As the people of Japan continue to endure profound hardship, I have been thinking, as so many people have, about how culture can respond in a way that is directly meaningful. Is there a way for artists to bring solace to those who are suffering such overwhelming tragedy? A friend in Tokyo recently answered that question by saying, “I believe that everyone should do anything he or she believes to be good, without hesitation, because the absence of action brings nothing.”

Inspired by these words, by the spirit of the Japanese people, and by the outpouring of generosity through efforts that range from benefit concerts to bake sales to the folding of paper cranes, we have set up a YouTube channel to create a space devoted to cultural response to the devastating events in Japan. The channel is called “For the People of Japan.”

Ten days ago, I taped a performance of the Prelude of Bach’s First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello and theSarabande movements from all Six Suites. I chose the music of Bach because his unique, enduring voice describes a universe of infinite nuance as it conveys his absolute compassion for the human condition.

I hope you’ll join me in this effort by creating a video or videos of your own to let the Japanese people know we are with them in spirit. Perhaps there is a piece of music or a dance, a poem or passage from a great book that you think would bring solace. The YouTube channel will go live next week, but you’re welcome to add a video at any time. Here’s how to post a video:

1. Go to Dropbox (http://www.dropbox.com) and create a free account. You will be asked to install Dropbox on your computer.

2. Once this installation is complete, email forjapan@soundpostings.com to let us know you plan to share a video.

3. You will receive an invitation via email with complete instructions for sharing your video on Dropbox.

4. Videos must be no longer than 15 minutes in total duration.

I know we all share the conviction that the arts are often the best way we have to give voice to the inexpressible. Please join me in this endeavor to give succor to those who are living through great tragedy and anxiety.

With warmest wishes,

Yo-Yo

P.S. If you have questions, comments or need technical help, please send an e-mail tojessica@soundpostings.com with copy to cristin@soundpostings.com.

Best,

GJH

Rehearsal Schedule, April 17 - Philharmonia and Symphony

2011-04-12T12:02:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here's the rehearsal for Philharmonia and Symphony this Sunday. It will be very similar to our usual schedule.

Philharmonia:
3:00 strings/harp on stage (Vaughan Williams), winds/percussion in rehearsal hall
4:00 break
4:10 Copland on stage (saxes with Mr. Newcomb until 5:00)
4:30 Tchaikovsky

Symphony:
6:15 Dvorak 3
6:30 Dvorak 2
6:50 Dvorak 1
7:30 break
7:40 Dvorak 4
8:00 Vaughan Williams on stage (strings), winds/timpani in rehearsal hall

See you then,
GJH

Rehearsal Schedule, April 10 - Philharmonia, Symphony, Sinfonia, and Camerata

2011-04-07T13:02:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, and welcome back from your week off. We hope you're feeling rested. Here are the schedules for Philharmonia and Symphony for Sunday - we're back to our (relatively) usual times:

Philharmonia:
3:00 strings/harp on stage, winds/percussion in rehearsal hall
4:00 break
4:10 Copland on stage, saxes with Mr. Newcomb until 5:00
4:35 Tchaikovsky

Symphony:
6:15 Dvorak 3
7:00 Dvorak 2
7:30 break
7:40 Dvorak 1
8:00 strings on stage (Vaughan Williams), wind sectional in rehearsal hall

Sinfonia and Camerata:
On Sunday, we will be having sectionals for both groups. Sinfonia will start in sectionals for an hour before reconvening in your usual room for a session with Dr. Alexander. Camerata will start with Dr. Alexander for a half hour before having sectionals from 6 to 7.

See you Sunday,
GJH

It's That Time of Year

2011-03-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. A few announcements as we approach the final concert on May 15:

First, here is the ensemble distribution for the concert day:
3:00: Choruses, Jazz, Philharmonia (Saxes, Winds, Full Orchestra)
5:30: Camerata Winds, Sinfonia, Camerata
7:30: Percussion Ensemble, Symphony

Second, now's the time to apply for the 2011-2012 season of GYSO&C. We hope to see you all again next year. For the first time, you can now apply online directly from our website (http://www.cobbsymphony.org/gyso_auditions.htm). But for those of you who like paper, you can still print off the pdf and mail it. Specific audition dates and other possible questions are listed there as well.

GJH

No GYSO&C This Week!

2011-03-29T13:22:00.000-07:00

Hi to all. GYSO&C is holding its spring break this coming Sunday (4/3) and Tuesday (4/5). Enjoy the time off.

Here's a springy video from Bruno Bozzetto's film Allegro non Troppo (a Fantasia knockoff), featuring Vivaldi:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAxzMynlcqo

See you in a couple weeks,
GJH

Rehearsal Schedules for March 20 - Philharmonia and Symphony

2011-03-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Here's the schedule for this week:

Philharmonia:
3:00 Strings/Harps on stage, Winds/Percussion in rehearsal hall
4:00 break
4:10 Copland on stage (Saxes with Mr. Newcomb until 5pm)
4:30 Tchaikovsky on stage

Symphony:
6:15 Dvorak 4
6:45 Dvorak 1
7:20 break
7:30 Dvorak 2
8:15 Dvorak 3

See you then,
GJH

Rehearsal Schedules for Mar. 13 - Philharmonia, Symphony, Percussion Ensemble

2011-03-08T13:41:00.000-08:00

Symphony:(same time as usual)
6:15 Dvorak 1
7:00 Dvorak 4
7:30 break
7:40 Dvorak 4
8:00 Dvorak 3

Philharmonia:
6:15-7:15 Strings with Dr. Lemonds
6:15-7:15 Winds/Brass with Dr. Alexander
7:15-7:25 break
7:25-8:45 Tchaikovsky tutti

Phil Saxes are only called from 6:15 to 7:30 (with Mr. Newcomb).

Philharmonia Percussion are only called from 7:25-8:45.

There is NO Percussion Ensemble.

The reason for this altered schedule is the Cobb Symphony performance in the KSU Bailey Center at 3:00 that afternoon. All GYSO students are welcome to attend! As always, CSO events are free to GYSO students.

The program will include two Russian symphonies: Symphony No. 1 by Dmitri Shostakovich and Symphony No. 2 by Sergei Rachmaninoff. Here's a little Shostakovich at his quirky best to whet your appetite:

Shostakovich, mvmt 2

Hope to see you there!

Thanks,
GJH

Rehearsal Schedules for Mar. 6 - Philharmonia and Symphony

2011-03-03T13:48:00.000-08:00

Philharmonia:
3:00 - Vaughan Williams on stage (strings/harp), Jacob in rehearsal hall (winds/percussion)
4:00 - break
4:10 - Copland
4:40 - Tchaikovsky

Symphony:
6:15 - Dvorak 4
7:00 - Dvorak 1
7:30 - break
7:40 - Dvorak 1
8:00 - Dvorak 2

See you then,
GJH

Audition Information for 2011-2012 Now Online!

2011-03-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

Hi to all. Information for auditions for next year's GYSO&C season are now up on our website. Check out http://www.cobbsymphony.org/gyso_auditions.htm to find the audition schedule, requirements, application form, and other useful info.

Different instruments/ensembles have different audition dates:

May 16-17: Woodwind, Jazz

May 19-20: Brass, Double Bass

May 21-22: Violin, Viola, Cello, Voice

May 28: Percussion, Supplementary Auditions

As always, we welcome interested newcomers to the program. If you know of students who might be a good fit for GYSO&C, please send them in our direction.

Thanks,

GJH

Over the weekend

2011-02-28T15:28:00.000-08:00

Hi to all, and welcome back to our third and final concert rotation for the year. All reports suggested that the first rehearsals yesterday were very promising (I'm sure Chorus on Tuesday will be no different!), and we're expecting another great round of performances in May.

Many thanks to all of you who helped support us with your participation (both athletic and financial) in the Noteworthy Run this weekend. We hope you all had a good time getting out and about. (I admit, my feet were a little sore afterward; those who were there will know what I mean.) We need to particularly acknowledge Sam Skelton and the GYSO Jazz members who provided music for the event. It was a wonderful touch that reminded everyone what we're about and added some spice to the atmosphere.

Thanks again, and see you Sunday or tomorrow,
GJH

Summer Opportunity!

2011-02-14T13:52:00.000-08:00

Franklin Pond Chamber Music is a unique summer program for gifted students ages 12 through 18 that fosters the art of chamber music through teaching and performance in an intimate environment of artistic excellence. With exposure and guidance from the outstanding faculty and master class artists, students learn the virtues of creativity, self discipline, teamwork, and the joy of music that fosters listening and learning skills and elevates student performance across all disciplines.

Applications and information can be found at <http://franklinpond.org> .

Congratulations!

2011-02-14T13:42:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone, and Bravo for a great day of concerts yesterday. It's always wonderful to see and hear the hard work come together. We're looking forward to another one on May 15.

A reminder that we have next week off. Sunday groups, your next rehearsal will be Feb. 27; Choruses are off until March 1.

But don't forget the Noteworthy 5k on Feb. 26! We're happy to see the registrations that are coming in; we're hoping to be inundated with them over the next two weeks. Even if you can't make it, please spread to the word to families, friends, Romans, countrymen, etc. Online registration is at our homepage: www.cobbsymphony.org.

Congrats once again, and see you in a couple weeks,
GJH

GYSO Concerts This Weekend!

2011-02-10T12:48:00.000-08:00

To all GYSO&C participants and parents: we hope you're excited for the concerts this weekend. Here's a final rundown of what you need to know:

Saturday Rehearsals:
All rehearsals Saturday are at the Bailey Center at KSU.

10:00-12:30 Symphony (10:00 Holst, 11:00 Mussorgsky, 11:30 Turina)
11:30-12:30 Jazz
1:00-3:30 Philharmonia (No saxes; winds and percussion do not need to arrive until 1:30)
1:00-2:00 Sinfonia
2:30-3:30 Camerata

There is no Saturday rehearsal for Camerata Winds, Philharmonia saxes, Percussion Ensemble, and Choruses.

Symphony percussionists: please make every effort to attend (in particular) the Mussorgsky portion of rehearsal.

Sunday Call Times:
Again, all concerts are at the Bailey Center at KSU.

2:00 Philharmonia Winds (stage)
2:30 Camerata Winds (stage)
2:45 Philharmonia (rehearsal hall)

4:30 High School and Middle School Chorus (room 2080)
4:45 Jazz (rehearsal hall)
5:30 Sinfonia (rehearsal hall)

6:45 Camerata (rehearsal hall)
6:45 Percussion Ensemble (stage)
7:30 Symphony (rehearsal hall)

Ushers: Thanks to those of you have volunteered. Please report to the lobby 30 minutes prior to the start of the concert. We're still looking for help for the 3:00 and 7:30 concerts.

Tickets: Online ticket sales will end tonight at midnight. After tonight you will have to buy your tickets at the door. If you buy at the door, please come early, as the lines are long. The box office will open at 1:30pm.

Next Week:
There is no rehearsal Sunday, Feb. 20; we'll see you again on Feb. 27 (and at the Noteworthy on Feb. 26!). Despite rumors to the contrary, there is no Chorus rehearsal Feb. 15 or Feb. 22. Your next rehearsal will be March 1.

Thanks,

GJH

Call times, Sunday Feb. 13

2011-02-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

Hi to all; we hope you're all set to go for our second concert date of the year. As usual, the concerts will be taking place at the Bailey Center on the campus of Kennesaw State University. Here are the call times and places for each of the groups:

2:00 Philharmonia Winds (stage)
2:30 Camerata Winds (stage)
2:45 Philharmonia (rehearsal hall)

4:30 High School and Middle School Chorus (room 2080)
4:45 Jazz (rehearsal hall)
5:30 Sinfonia (rehearsal hall)

6:45 Camerata (rehearsal hall)
6:45 Percussion Ensemble (stage)
7:30 Symphony (rehearsal hall)

See you then,
GJH

Rehearsal Schedules for Feb. 6 - Camerata Winds, Philharmonia, and Symphony

2011-02-02T14:39:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. First of all, a reminder that for some of you, rehearsal has been pushed earlier because of the football game:

Camerata Winds:
1:30-2:45 at the Bailey Center at KSU

Symphony:
4:15-5:10 Turina
5:10 break
5:20 Holst (orchestra only)
6:00 Holst (with soloists)

We know that many of wind/percussion players will be otherwise engaged Sunday; please attend if you can.
Philharmonia is at the usual time, with some slight location changes:

Philharmonia:
3:00 strings in rehearsal hall, winds/percussion on stage
4:00 break
4:10 Dvorak on stage, saxophones in lobby
4:40 Bizet (Intermezzo at the end)

GJH

Come run with us!

2011-01-28T12:37:00.000-08:00

Help support our annual Noteworthy 5k Run/Walk and 1 Mile Fun Run, on Saturday, February 26, at Marietta High School. We're asking all GYSO&C members to promote this event, our major yearly fundraiser for the Cobb Symphony and Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Even if you aren't a runner yourself, please spread the word and encourage your friends to sign up; we're hoping for two runners per GYSO&C member.

The Fun Run will begin at 9am, the 5k at 9:30. There are prizes three deep for fifteen different age groups, as well as for overall male and female winners. We're also proud to announce that the Noteworthy is now a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race.

This week we'll be passing out registration forms to each one of you that you can use yourself or give to friends. They'll have your name on them, so when someone registers we'll know who recruited them. Additionally, if your friends register through our website (cobbsymphony.org), there's a place for them to enter your name as a "GYSO&C Referee".

You'll find more information on the registration form as well as the online registration site on our homepage. As always, let me know if you have questions. We look forward to seeing you on the 26th.

GJH

Rehearsal Schedule for Philharmonia and Symphony - Jan. 30

2011-01-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

Philharmonia:
3:00: Winds in rehearsal hall, strings on stage
4:00: break
4:10: Bizet tutti on stage (saxes remain in rehearsal hall until 5:00)
5:00: Dvorak

Symphony:
6:15: Turina 3,2,1
7:30: break
7:40: Mussorgsky
8:10: Holst

GJH

Important Schedule Information - 2/6 & 2/12

2011-01-20T15:03:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Some of you have been asking about the schedules on these days; hopefully this will tell you what you need to know. We know that this may conflict with some preexisting plans, but we ask that you attend if at all possible.

We've decided we can't compete with the Super Bowl on Feb. 6, even if the Falcons aren't going to be participating, so we're bumping things earlier for a couple groups. Camerata Winds and Symphony are most affected by these changes:

Feb. 6:
Camerata Winds: 1:30-2:45 at the Bailey Center at KSU (not the Murray Center)
Symphony: 4:15-6:45

Philharmonia and Percussion Ensemble are at their usual times, but Philharmonia will begin with the winds/percussion on stage and strings in the rehearsal hall, and the Percussion Ensemble will meet on stage. Saxes will meet with Mr. Newcomb in the Bailey lobby. Jazz, Sinfonia, and Camerata are at the usual time and place.

Feb. 12:
Symphony: 10:00-12:30
Jazz: 11:30-12:30 at the Bailey Center at KSU
Sinfonia: 1:00-2:00 at the Bailey Center at KSU
Camerata: 2:30-3:30 at the Bailey Center at KSU
Philharmonia: 1:00-3:30

There is no rehearsal Feb. 12 for Chorus, Percussion Ensemble, Philharmonia Winds, Philharmonia Saxes, and Camerata Winds.

As always, let me know if you have questions.

Thanks,
GJH

Rehearsal Schedule for Symphony and Philharmonia - Jan. 23

2011-01-19T13:39:00.000-08:00

Philharmonia:
3:00: Winds in rehearsal hall, strings on stage
3:15: Dr. Fleck joins strings on stage
4:00: break
4:10: Bizet tutti on stage (saxes remain in rehearsal hall until 5:00)
5:00: Dvorak

Symphony:
6:15: Mussorgsky
6:45: Turina 1 and 3
7:20: break
7:30: Turina 2
8:10: Holst

GJH

Rehearsal schedule for Symphony and Philharmonia - Jan. 16

2011-01-12T13:05:00.000-08:00

Philharmonia:
3:00 - strings on stage, winds/percussion in the rehearsal hall
4:00 - break
4:10 - Dvorak tutti on stage (saxes remain in rehearsal hall until 5:00)
4:40 - Bizet

Symphony:
6:15 - Mussorgsky
6:45 - Turina 1
7:15 - break
7:25 - Turina 2
8:00 - Holst (no harp/low brass, 1 percussionist)

See you then,
GJH

GYSO Chorus tonight

2011-01-11T09:51:00.000-08:00

Due to continued icy conditions, GYSO Chorus will not be rehearsing this evening. Enjoy the winter weather, and we'll see you next Tuesday.

Thanks,
GJH

Blizzard '11!

2011-01-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who were able to make it to rehearsal yesterday. I know that the ensembles that did meet got a lot done; I can personally vouch for the high levels of productivity for both Phil Winds and Cam Winds.

Our apologies for the last-minute cancellation of Symphony. It looked for the longest time that the weather would hold off until after rehearsal, but that ended up not being the case. We appreciate your understanding, particularly those of you made the trip to KSU. The Wisconsinite in me laughs at such winter dangers, but the saner part of me acknowledges the importance of safety, especially with so many young drivers.

There will be one unfortunate consequence of this, however. Because of this missed rehearsal, Dr. Alexander and I have decided to eliminate Poet and Peasant from the program. It's a fun piece and would have been a great opener for us, but the Turina and Mussorgsky both give us plenty to do over the next month, and the Holst doesn't exactly play itself. As it stands, Night on Bald Mountain, the Double Concerto, and Danzas Fantasticas will make up great program for us.

Enjoy the snow, and for those of you who got one, Snow Day - "the funnest day in history," to paraphrase Springfield's Mayor Quimby.

Welcome to the Podium!

2011-01-10T13:17:00.000-08:00

Hello to all GYSO&C students, parents, staff, and well-wishers. The Podium is your new place to look for information about the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. We will still send out email bulletins occasionally - before concerts, or to notify you about schedule changes and any other crucial or urgent information - but we will no longer be sending out the weekly newsletters.

This means that if you're looking, for instance, for the rehearsal order for Symphony this week, this is the place to look. You'll also be able to find interesting information about the music the various ensembles within GYSO&C are working on at the moment. If any of you GYSO&C students or parents know of any events or news that would be of interest to the GYSO crowd, send me an email and we may be able to include it here.

More soon, and welcome once again,
Grant Harville
Associate Conductor, Cobb Symphony Orchestra