Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra (PYSO)

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2012-01-21T10:01:00.000-08:00

Musical Circus

January 22, 2012
Featuring: Richard Bernard and Friends

The Americana at Brand
889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210-1555
1:00 pm-2:30 pm

The Pasadena Symphony Association’s Musical Circus is a perennial favorite for children 3-8 years of age. The popular family program, which reaches some 5,000 children and their families yearly from around Southern California, is at The Americana at Brand in Glendale, California.

The Circus begins with the instrument “petting zoo” where youngsters can toot flutes, blow trumpets, pluck violins and cellos and bang on percussion instruments.

The Musical Circus is free, so bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun music making!

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2012-01-05T10:53:00.000-08:00

Hello PYSO Family Members,

Welcome Back and Happy New Year!

“What the New Year brings to us will greatly depend on what we bring in to the new year. Let’s all start anew with lots of positivity, motivation and great music. A great 2012 to all of us! Cheers!”

Our 1st rehearsal is next Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at your regular time.

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-12-12T21:41:00.000-08:00

Dear PYSO Family Members,

Thank you for great Winter Concert and have a Wonderful PYSO Winter Break! (No rehearsal until January 10th 2012)

We hope you and your family have a cheerful holiday season and may the New Year be prosperous. As we welcome another year, may it come with a spirit to fulfill all the desires and with a determination to achieve the goal of our life.

Our first rehearsal for 2012 is on January 10th at your regular time.

Please go to your regular rehearsal location. There will be NO Sectionals for this rehearsal.

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-11-30T12:34:00.000-08:00

Pre-bidding is now live for our Silent Auction fund raiser for the Pasadena Youth Symphony. Please see the link for items and rules for participation. live bidding will take place on Tuesday, December 6 at 5:30pm at Pasadena High School’s auditorium.

http://www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org/pyso-silent-auction/

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-11-30T12:16:00.000-08:00

Schedule for 12/6/11

5:45 Arrival Time
6:00 - 6:20 Warm-up and Tune
6:20 - 6:45 Practice Beginnings/Endings and Transitions
6:45 Proceed to Auditorium
7:00 Concert begins

Be sure to arrive on time with instrument and music! Have a light meal before arriving. The concert will end at 9:00 p.m. Double check your attire (look over fact sheet that was distributed on Tuesday). Please remind your parents about the silent auction taking place on line and prior to the concert in the foyer.

Favorite Quotes:
If you don't believe in yourself, who will?
Make each day your masterpiece.
Be quick, but don't hurry.
There is only one you. Be unique in your endeavors.
Strive to be the person you would like to have as your friend.

Thank you for your efforts on Tuesday. I look forward to making great music together on Tuesday evening! Good skill to everyone!!

Mr. Yearick

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-11-23T17:45:00.000-08:00

Schedule for 11/29/11

5:45-6:15 Warm-up and Tune
6:15-7:00 Guest Clinician (Mr. Grant Cooper)
7:00-7:10 Snack and Water Break
7:10-7:45 Rehearse Concert Selections

Program Order:
Sphere of Fire
Christmas Collection
Spania

Please arrive by 5:30 p.m. We are all busy, please make an effort to be on time!!

Favorite Quotes:
"If you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?"
"You only fail when you stop trying"
"I am motivated by fear of failure"
"Make each day your masterpiece"
"Never look back, someone may be gaining on you"

Thank you for a good rehearsal last Tuesday! Practice your music slowly and carefully. I'm looking forward to a great concert. Good skill!
See you on Tuesday.

Mr. Yearick

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-11-17T22:35:00.000-08:00

Rehearsal Schedule:

5:45-6:30 Full Rehearsal (Spania)
6:30-7:10 Sectionals
7:10-7:20 Snack and Water Break
7:20-7:45 Full Rehearsal (Sphere of Fire)

Reminders:
> Always bring your music stand (whether you think you need it or not!!)
> We need to do a better job of cleaning up after our break!
> Our concert is 20 days away!!
> Do you have your concert attire (black and whites)?
> Only 2 more rehearsals!
> Thank you for being flexable last Tuesday. We survived!!

Looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday!!
Mr.Yearick

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2011-11-16T07:25:00.000-08:00

PYSO members-

Mr. Taylor mentioned that fundraising is more important than it seems, so everyone should go out there and make an effort at contributing to the tour expenses! The musician in you all deserve to go to Europe, and it would be wonderful if your efforts lighten the load upon your parents, Mr. Taylor, chaperones, and all the people who give up so much to help all of you.

Another important thing to remember is that if you learn to be an excellent symphonic musician by listening and playing together, even the top orchestras will be impressed.

Try something new every rehearsal: one day you might focus on listening to your standpartner, the next week you can try to listen to the person farthest away from you; the possibilities are endless!

(It's more fun that way too because you won't be mentally "stuck" in your own section)

Good work and keep practicing!

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-11-11T14:39:00.000-08:00

Schedule for 11/15/11

5:45-6:30 Full Rehearsal (Christmas Collection)
6:30-7-10 Sectionals
7:10-7:20 Snack and water break
7:20-7:45 Sightreading

PRACTICE TECHNIQUES:

> Ensemble work takes individual effort. If individual players cannot play their parts, good ensemble playing will not be possible.
> Be proud of yourselves and your abilities. Don't settle for mediocre playing when you have the ability to play well.
> Be Honest. Don't cheat yourself by saying "I don't have time to practice.: Learn to take time to develop efficient and quality practice habits; they will help you quite a bit.
> Come prepared to rehearsal. Listen to suggestions and practice. Hard work and dedication, along with good practice habits are the key to success.
> Remember to have fun. You will become a better musician and person by active participation in music.

Looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday!
Mr. Yearick

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-11-03T21:36:00.000-07:00

Schedule for 11/8/11

5:45-6:30 Full Rehearsal (Spania)
6:30-7:10 Sectionals
7:10-7:20 Snack/Water Break
7:20-7:45 Full Rehearsal (Sphere of Fire)

4 more rehearsals before our concert on December 6th!!!!

Reminders;
Practice slow before fast, and soft before loud!
Work on the difficult passages first, then play through the piece.
Save something fun to play at the end.
Have you purchased your black and whites (concert attire)?

Mr. Yearick

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-10-27T17:46:00.000-07:00

Schedule for November 1st:

5:45-6:30 Full Rehearsal (Christmas Collection)
6:30-7:10 Sectionals
7:10-7:20 Snack and Water Break
7:20-7:45 Full Rehearsal (Sphere of Fire)

5 more rehearsals before our first concert on December 6th!

Practice Tips:
> Find a quiet place to practice. Be sure to have good posture. Place your music stand at eye level. Have a pencil and mark your music as needed.
> Warm-up slowly and carefully. Your embouchure is critical for good tone. Warming up correctly will keep the muscles in your embouchure flexible.
> Practice the assigned material. Be careful that you are using correct pulse, rhythm, notes, articulation, dynamics, phrasing, and style. Isolate problem sections and practice those areas slowly.
> Several shorter sessions of practice are more productive than 1 long one!!

Looking forward to seeing you next Tuesday!

-Mr. Yearick

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2011-10-27T17:38:00.000-07:00

Wasn’t it great to have Maestra Mei-Ann Chen conduct the orchestra? More importantly though, did you learn something that will help the orchestra sound better?

Here are more than a few tips to improve musicianmanship in general:
- Rainbow notes: Placement and control of the bow and air can drastically change the color of your tone
- Dance with the music!
- Use your ear to find “perfect” intonation. Also, being flat is psychologically less pleasant than being sharp, so aim higher!
- Think about what your dream is because if you don’t aim for anything, you won’t go anywhere.
- It’s much more entertaining (to the self and also to the audience!) if you imagine a story/picture fitting a piece of music and then express your images through your instrument. There’s no point in just hitting all the notes, the important part is to make the notes mean something.

Before reading on, grab a pencil and your music… go on, I’ll wait

NUTCRACKER
Articulate the melody, especially the 8th notes (think of Chinese stir-fry)
Mark something so that your accents really crunch!
Put a heart (or whatever else that will work) around those poor little orphan notes, and those tend to be 8th notes in a passage of longer note to remind yourself to give them some love <3
(for strings) use the power section (lower half) combined with the strength of the bridge for the melody and other robust sections
Ping-pong ball = last note: shoot it across the sky and make it jump! (mark that in)

STILL NACHT
Boo! Don’t scare the conductor… be ready!
Put some life and passion into the music, pretty please?
S t r e t c h the boundaries of your sound; draw a rubber band or something next to each dynamic to remind yourself
Problem: notes are not changing together Solution: COUNT!! (problem solved, right? Now just apply that to real life :)
8th note=72 metronome speed.

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2011-10-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

P lay the section without looking, your ears will get a chance to correct
R eview your notes from rehearsal and lesson
A nnahilate problems so when you plug it back into the piece you play smoothly without hestitation
C ontrol
T hink…seems obvious, but take 3 seconds to remind yourself of your goals
I dentify the problem, then fix it!
C omfort leads to confidence, spend some quality practice on a difficult passage
E xcuses, excuses, excuses. STOP! It takes more energy to come up with them than to actually practice.

Remember what Ms. Chen said and worked on; she had a lot of great stuff and Brandenburg sounded so good! Next week, you will have a sub so let's bring our positive attitudes and best behavior.

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-10-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

October 25 Schedule

5:45-6:45 Chair Tryouts (Christmas Collection 122-end)
6:45-6:55 Snack and Water Break
6:55-7:45 Full Rehearsal (Spania March)

> Concentrate on tone quality, intonation and precision for your tryout.

> Blend and Balnce have been issues to date. Make sure you can hear others in your section and listen across the ensemble to match other sections.

> Attacks - Make sure embouchure is set and air is compressed behind tongue.

> Transitions (Christmas Collection) need attention. Practice Key and Time changes slowly.

I enjoyed last Tuesdays' rehearsal. Be sure and thank our coaches, who are doing their best to make you sound better! It's not to early to make sure you have your black and whites ready for the concert on December 6!

Looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday!

-Mr. Yearick

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2011-10-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

P lay the passage backwards
R epetition, play the 7s game…ask me what this is
A dd a note…when the section is perfect
C ount out loud the rests and rhythms
T orture practice…play a section at tempo, if you fail, play it 2x as slow, if you fail again, then 2x as slow, if you succeed 2x as fast, etc until you are at a tempo again.
I ndependent practice, don’t wait for your parents to ask you to practice…do it yourself
C lean up…no extra squeaks, squawks or strings
E phiphany or “Ah ha moments”…with well thought out practice, you should have many of these

*Ms. Lim's Helpful Tips #2

Guest Conductor Mei Ann Chen will be at next Tuesday's rehearsal. She will hear the Brandenburg No. 3, 1st movement in all it's glory! P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E.
No Sectionals next week, so we will be able to rehearse all our Winter Concert music...Hallelujah, In a Christmas Mood, Small Overture...be ready!!!
Be prepared to play a solo We are only as good as our weakest player, so don't be weak! I'll ask people to play at different sections in our Winter Concert pieces.
Congrats to challengers and 'challengees' last week! Always be prepared, you never know if someone challenge you.

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2011-10-13T22:34:00.000-07:00

Symphony Blog:
10-11-2011

Mother Ginger:
• Medium length pick-up; “brush stroke”
• Fix that page turn!
• Even 1/8th note
• Find the melody and support it.
• Violins and Cellos; forte means have a full sound, not bury the orchestra

Bach Fugue:
• Can’t look like you are working too hard

Still Nacht:
• Winds need to learn their part watch your Bowing
• COUNT!!

Finale:
• Don’t rush-double bows
• Intonation-higher positions
• Know if you’re in 2 or 1

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-10-13T13:41:00.000-07:00

Schedule for October 18

5:45-6:30 Full Rehearsal (Sphere of Fire)
6:30-7:10 Sectionals
7:10-7:20 Snack/Water Break
7:20-7:45 Full Rehearsal (Sightreading)

> Be sure and circle areas in your music that need extra work. Practice the circled sections first, then work the entire piece.
> Practice slowly, then up to the tempo marking indicated.
> Eyes up front! Be sure to have good eye contact, especially at the begining, end, and all transitions.
> Posture never goes out of style. Sit tall, away from the back of the chair (push your stomach out with your back!). Feet flat on floor! When you look ready, you sound ready!!

Looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday!

Mr. Yearick

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2011-10-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

P izzacato…focus on left hand position, intonation, and strength
R hythms…Short-Long;Long-Short; SSLL;LLSS;LSSL;SLLS, etc.
A rticulations…staccatos, tenutos, marcato, spiccato, etc.
C onsistency…can you play the section perfectly, 3x in a row? 10x? 20x?
T ime it…use a stopwatch and see how fast you can play it 3x perfect
I magination…create a storyline to go along with the piece
C reativity…if you’re bored with practice, find a way to stay engaged
E valuate your practice, “Did I fix, clean, or smooth out a passage?”

· Ms. Lim’s Helpful Practice Tips #1

Try it - Use the above acronym to practice the selected measures below.
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, 1st movement
1st Violin: m. 8 - 12; m. 24 - 30; m. 46 - 51; m. 80 - 84

2nd Violin: m. 8 - 12; m. 24 - 30; m. 51- 56; m. 62 -65; m. 66 - 70; m. 80 - 84

Violas: m. 24 - 31; m. 48 - 51; m. 53 - 56; m. 66 - 69

Cellos: m. 24 - 31; 70 - 72; m.

Bass: m. 3 - ; m. 24 - 31; articulation a little shorter

Polish - Also, remember that we will be performing Small Overture, Hallelujah Chorus, and In a Christmas Mood for the Winter Concert. We will rehearse them next week.

Congratulations to Alex, William, Tiffany, and Karen for successfully challenging for seats!

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-10-07T15:01:00.000-07:00

Thank you for being on time and ready to go last Tuesday!

Remember, 15 minutes early is on time and on time is late! Here is Tuesdays' schedule:

5:45 p.m. Full Rehearsal
6:30 p.m. Sectionals (please bring your wire stands)
7:10 p.m. Break/Snacks
7:20 - 7:45 p.m. Full Rehearsal

Please look over the warm-ups (lip slurs, tuning exercise and chorales).

We will work on The Christmas Collection at 5:45, and Spania, at 7:20. Bring pencils, music and right notes!!

-My.Yearick

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2011-10-02T22:07:00.000-07:00

Mother Ginger:
• Playing really loud is NOT impressive
• Don’t rush! (Violins & Cellos)
• Try not to get caught in the upper half of the Bow
• Watch the Stand ahead of you
• Strict Waltz Pulse
• Work/Listen to the style (glocoso)

Bach:
• Violins work on both parts
• Violins work on middle part
• Baroque music is very ornate and decorated
• You shouldn’t have to work hard to make your part heard
• We need all the little notes
• Music should have variation in it at all times

Still Nacht:
• Hardest piece, don’t stop practicing it
• You must count hard!
• Release together and be ready for the downbeat
• Write counts in so you don’t get lost

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2011-09-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

"Ah, music," he said, wiping his eyes. "A magic far beyond all we do here!”

(Can you figure our where this quote is from? Be specific and come see me at break for a prize!)

Another wonderful rehearsal, last Tuesday!!! 9 more to go before the concert!

Please check that you have the following in your folders:

Brandenburg No. 3, 1st and 2nd movement

Brandenburg No. 5, 1st movement

Hallelujah Chorus

In a Christmas Mood

Small Overture

If you do not have one of these pieces, please see me at the beginning of the rehearsal.

Also, next Tuesday we start our “Seat Challenges”. Here are a few things to remember.

1. Challenges are only issued to your own section

2. Each rehearsal will only have 4 challenges

3. Every musician has a vote, the results will stand (unless coach or conductor veto due to bad attitude)

4. Rotations will begin next week. Be sure to turn in your nametag at the end of rehearsal

5. Permanent seats will be assigned 2 weeks before the concert

Look at the attachment at all the great goals that you came up with. Besides monkeys, elephants can be seen playing instruments as well. We need to make sure we create something much more than notes!

Here’s the link to a youtube video www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecH16G05GC8

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-09-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

Our sectional rehearsals begin this week.

Here is our schedule for Tuesday:
5:45-6:30 Full WE
6:30-7:05 Sectionals
7:05-7:15 Break
7:15-7:45 Full WE

Don't forget we have tryouts on Sphere of Fire (anywhere from the beginning to measure 70). We will do tryouts the first part of the rehearsal and announce the results at 7:15.
Please remember to bring your music and music stand.

Looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday, October 4!

Mr. Yearick

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2011-09-22T13:13:00.000-07:00

Wonderful playing at the first rehearsal! I'm very excited to start this ambitious group of students.

A couple of reminders, please make sure to bring a folding stand, your music folder (hopefully with all your music inside:), and pencil each week. I would like to start at 5:45, so please be in your seats ready to go at 5:30pm. If you have any viola or bass friends, who would like to be a part of this orchestra, please contact Greg Fuentes at GFuentes@pasadenasymphony-pops.org

Common remarks by students....

"I had so much fun!"

"That music is too easy"

"I'm not sitting in the right place, I should be in the front"

Think about this...

We have all heard that performing and listening to music is commonly known to increase students math, science and language grades. The College Board, who produce the SATs, quotes, " Music students score higher on SATs". However, who said that music can't be fun? The majority of students who start in String Orchestra go on to the Symphony Orchestra. The section leaders and the concert master, who will lead PYSO in Vienna, all started their training in String Orchestra.

String Orchestra is made of almost entirely new students each year. In order to accurately judge how talented the group is, I choose a piece that will be playable through the first run through. Playing the notes is NOT making music. Monkeys could be taught to do this. What makes each ensemble unique is the QUALITY of sound. No student should claim to play all the notes accurately and in tune. I was there. The group has huge potential to become a wonderful orchestra. I was very pleased with the level of response from the students from answering questions, to performing with enormous tone.

String Orchestra is an "honors" orchestra. The majority of musicians that passed the audition are leaders in their schools. Most students have studied for many years with a private teacher in addition to their school music programs. We are talking about the best of the best! I will be rotating the students to hear the students. In addition, our amazing sectional coaches; Pin Chen, Orchestra Conductor of Arcadia High School, Alex Chu, viola coach extraordinaire, Ryan Sweeney, professional cellist, on the roster of the Pasadena Symphony as well as the LA Philharmonic, and Stephen Phiffer, professional string bass and a member of LA Phil's Teaching Artist Faculty.

Attitude
A great attitude is priceless.

Please communicate with me regarding any questions or concerns you have. I'm looking forward to this year with String Orchestra.

Notes from Mr. Yearick (Wind Ensemble)

2011-09-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

PYSO Wind Ensemble Notes:

Thank you for a most enjoyable first rehearsal last Tuesday evening. It was a pleasure meeting you and I look forward to many great musical performances! Please look over the chorales in the warm-up packet I distributed. Work on a nice legato style (Doo syllable).

I will have tryouts on October 4 and re-seat the ensemble. I will choose an excerpt from Sphere of Fire. I will answer questions and give more info at our next rehearsal on the 27th. Looking forward to seeing you next Tuesday!

-Mr. Yearick

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2011-09-21T20:25:00.000-07:00

Great first rehearsal!

I hope all of you are happy to be back and looking forward to our first performance.
Please try to find recordings of both Stille Nacht by Manheim Steamroller and Mother Ginger from the Nutcracker. It is important that we begin to understand the style of the pieces played.

Also, if you are wearing red next week you will be rewarded at break time.

See you next week.

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-09-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

Greetings PYSO Musicians and Families! - Welcome Back!

Musicians and Parents - 5:15 p.m. Meeting in PHS Auditorium.

Pasadena High School
2925 E. Sierra Madre Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91107

Symphony, String Orchestra & Wind Ensemble Rehearsal after the Meeting

This is just a friendly reminder:

What to bring to rehearsal:

1. Your instrument.
2. Folding music stand (all groups)
3. Pencil with an eraser.
4. Any other equipment for your instrument such as extra strings, rockstops, reeds, mutes, percussion mallets, rosin, valve oil, etc.

- Do not rely on your stand partner to bring the above items for you. If your stand partner is absent or arrives late, you must be prepared!

Also, if you have not returned your PYSO forms, included in your packet, please do so after the Musicians & Parent Meeting.

If you have already turned in you payment and forms, please disregard this message

Parents:

Please look inside the musicians’ music folder when they get home. There is additional important paper work which needs your attention and there is a letter that will need to be signed by their School Music Director and returned as soon as possible.

Any musician not at the first rehearsal can pick it up the music folder in person at the next rehearsal.

Sincerely,

Greg Fuentes PYSO Coordinator

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-09-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

Hey PYSO Families!

Want to have a great meal and help earn money for PYSO? Check this out:

For ONE DAY ONLY, Panda Express Restaurant group has generously partnered with PYSO to help us fundraise. On TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH, simply print out and bring the attached flier to one of two Panda Express Locations and enjoy a quick bite for lunch, dinner or after rehearsal snack and Panda Express will donate 20% of your bill to PYSO!

The two participating locations are:

Panda Express
218 S. Lake Ave.
Pasadena CA. 91001
(626) 799-7710

Panda Express inside Pavillions
745 W. Naomi Ave, Acadia
(626) 626-821-9407

Please pass these fliers along to any friends or family who might be interested. If you know someone who works near one of the location, ask them to pass it out to their co-workers. You can also print a few extra and keep them in your car to hand out to friends as you go about your day. While we cannot solicit diners at the restaurant, we can pass these fliers along to as many people as we like. This fundraiser costs us nothing and can help us keep PYSO expenses down. There are currently over 150 families in PYSO. If everyone goes to Panda Express on SEPTEMBER 27 and spends just $35, that’s over a $1,000 to help PYSO. Every little bit helps as we plan what is sure to be one of the most exciting years PYSO has ever seen!

Additional fliers will be available at the first rehearsal

Have a great last week off and we will see you next Tuesday!

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-09-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

The PYSO Parent Fundraising Committee is off to a strong start. This summer, we have worked with them in establishing a path for fundraising and sponsorship for PYSO for the 2011-2012 season and beyond. Some major highlights include:

- October 28, 2011, An Evening with Mei Ann Chen, a special event/fundraiser held with our guest conductor, Mei Ann Chen. The committee has secured in-kind catering and rentals. Please mark your calendars and let us know if there are any potential sponsors with a Youth/Education focus that you would like us to invite.
- December 6, 2011, PYSO Winter Concert and Silent Auction. For the first time, the PYSO will be hosting a Silent Auction in conjunction with its annual Winter Concert. We have already secured many items for auction, but will continue to collect until the week before the event. Some samples of items donated have included vacation spots in Hawaii and Italy, jewelry, “Lessons from the Masters”-a series of intense instruction and coaching from area violin and cello teachers, special tours and food items.
- Other, smaller fundraisers for PYSO include a “Panda Express Dinner Night” (bring a flier in, PYSO gets 20% of your bill) a Play-a-thon, Goodwill Donation truck ($1500) per truck we fill, no costs or obligations, and “Tickets for Tuition” where PYSO members sell Symphony concert tickets at full price and receive a small percentage of the sale. We are also actively seeking sponsorships.

Plans for the PYSO Symphony tour to Austria as well as the companion tour continue to develop. Additional information about the companion tour will become available soon. If you haven’t sent an email of interest yet, there’s still time!

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-08-29T12:39:00.000-07:00

Music Under the Stars

September 24, 2011 7:30 pm
at Pasadena City Hall-Centennial Square

Pasadena POPS
Larry Blank, Conductor

Pasadena Symphony and POPS

Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 7:30 pm

Larry Blank, Conductor

Build another enduring memory with your family and friends as we gather in the majestic setting of Centennial Square at Pasadena City Hall for an unforgettable celebration everyone will love – the Pasadena Symphony and POPS annual FREE gift of music to the community. This year’s MUSIC UNDER THE STARS will celebrate great American musical icons with brilliant vocalists LISA VROMAN, CHRISTINA ASHFORD, NORMAN LARGE, THE DONALD BRINEGAR SINGERS, and the musicians of the Pasadena Symphony and POPS .

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-08-10T23:24:00.000-07:00

Marvin Does Movies

Pasadena POPS
August 27, 2011 7:30 pm at Lawn adjacent to the Rose Bowl

Pasadena POPS
Marvin Hamlisch, Principal Pops Conductor

Programming will include:
Salute to Gene Kelly, Gigi, An American in Paris, Schindler’s List, The Informant!

Order tickets by Phone:

You may call between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday. Phone: 626.793.7172

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-08-03T14:43:00.000-07:00

Marvin Does Broadway

August 6, 2011 7:30 pm
at Lawn adjacent to the Rose Bowl

Pasadena POPS
Marvin Hamlisch, Principal Pops Conductor

Programming will include: Les Misérables, Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, The Producers, Company

Cady Huffman, Vocalist
Anne Runolfsson, Vocalist
Gary Mauer, Vocalist

Order tickets by Phone:

You may call between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday. Phone: 626.793.7172

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-05-30T14:22:00.000-07:00

PYSO - The Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra

~Wind Ensemble~

~String Orchestra~

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-05-30T14:13:00.001-07:00

PYSO - The Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra

~Symphony Orchestra~

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-04-12T22:21:00.000-07:00

PYSO - The Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra

~Solo Recital~

Congratulations on a Great Solo Performance!

Matthew Lin (Symphony – Flute); Sarah Biagini (Symphony – Violin); Benjamin Gray (Symphony – Cello); Tomoko Oguri (String Orchestra – Violin); Harry Wilde Greer (Symphony – Cello); Rikki Choi (String Orchestra – Cello); Daniel Hsiao (Symphony – Viola)

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator | Spring Break

2011-04-02T12:53:00.001-07:00

PYSO – Symphony, String Orchestra and Wind Ensemble will be on Spring Break – April 4- 8, 2011. *** NO REHEARSAL. ***

Next Rehearsal will be on April 12, 2011.

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2011-03-17T14:24:00.000-07:00

Wind Ensemble and String Orchestra Musicians,

Wow! You really made the retreat an amazing one for your directors, the chaperones, and yourselves.

Thank you for your hard-work and I look forward to the final 5 rehearsals before our next concert.

Really focus on Rhosemedre (try to find where the phrases begin and end) as well as keeping Peregrin Polished. You will get copies of one or two new pieces for us to prepare for our final concert and we will spend the bulk of time on these at the next rehearsal.

REMINDERS:

1. BRING YOUR MUSIC STAND!
2. Look up some info on Charles Ives and "Rollo" for fun.
3. Apply Online for your PYSO Audition!

Sincerely,
Mrs. Kubota

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator | PYSO 2011-2012 Audition Info

2011-03-16T08:31:00.001-07:00

Please Print Out:

PREPARING FOR YOUR AUDITION: Prepare for your audition with the assistance of your private teacher. All students must be part of their school
orchestras if one is available; private study is also recommended.

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator | Big Bear

2011-03-05T14:09:00.000-08:00

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator | Big Bear

2011-03-05T07:22:00.000-08:00

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-03-05T07:14:00.000-08:00

Here is some more pictures from last nights.

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-03-04T22:46:00.001-08:00

Getting off the bus after a Two hours drive. Dinner was Hot Dogs, Hamburger and fries. The full rehearsal with both groups went well.

Tomorrow the musicians will be up by 7am, breakfast at 8 am and then another full rehearsal.
The kids were great and they enjoyed the trip.

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-02-20T06:42:00.000-08:00

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-02-20T06:33:00.001-08:00

PYSO Symphony at Airport / Colorado Springs, CO

2011-02-18T22:51:00.000-08:00

Friday, February 18th – We all had an early morning and we were on schedule all day. The plane flight was a bit delayed on take-off, but the pilot got us in Denver ahead of schedule. We had a quick bite for lunch at the airport, loaded to the bus and arrived in Colorado Springs by 5:01 pm.

The check-in at the hotel was a breeze and the kid’s luggage and instruments was staged and ready for the musicians to take to their rooms.

Saturday, February 19th – wake-up call at 6:30, breakfast by 7:00 and on the buses by 8:00. Arrive at USFA by 9am, rehearse, have lunch, a base tour and then off to meet with Colorado Springs Youth Symphony.

A quick rehearsal at Doherty High School for both group, eat dinner and then the concert.
We should all be back at the hotel by 10pm.

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-02-12T13:48:00.001-08:00

Blue Steel at Arnold Hall, February 20, 2011, at 2:30 pm

This performance features the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony, the Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra and USAF Academy Cadet Orchestra.

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-01-28T08:44:00.000-08:00

Adjusting to High Altitude:

Altitude at the U.S. Air Force Academy varies from approximately 6,200 feet near Interstate 25 to 9,000 feet on the Farish Recreation Area grounds. Newcomers to Colorado may experience symptoms related to altitude sickness until their bodies adjust to the lower air pressure.

The following steps can help you prevent or reduce the effect of high altitude until your body adjusts to the climate:

-- Stay hydrated. Fluid loss often accompanies the acclimatization process, so drink three to four quarts of water per day to remain properly hydrated.
-- Don't overexert yourself. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating symptoms of altitude sickness.
-- Eat a high-carb diet. More than 70 percent of your daily calories should come from complex carbohydrates such as starches.

http://www.princeton.edu/~oa/safety/altitude.shtml

For more information on adjusting to high altitude, visit Princeton University's

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2011-01-19T10:35:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone,

Just a friendly reminder-the Symphony is now offering $10 student rush tickets. That’s in addition to the kids under 14 are just $10 and student soundcheck cards.

This offer is good for PYSO as well as any students or friends you may have in your schools, networks etc.

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2011-01-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

Remember as you practice this week Wind Ensemble musicians, to focus on great posture. Keep your "melon" above your spine, ears above your shoulders and grow "roots" from your feet.

Please practice New World Symphony and Egmont Overture in-depth in the next week to prepare for our joint rehearsals next month with the String Orchestra. We do not want to be correcting wrong rhythms, notes or dynamics during this rehearsal. Instead, our goal will be to shape the sound of our combined groups. Knowing your music so well that it is almost memorized is imperative to being able to listen to other parts while you play yours.

Here are some listening links for your new music:

Peregrin (1st 1/2 of piece recorded)
http://listeninglab.stantons.com/item.php?stno=157132

Egmont Overture (the arrangement we are playing)
http://www.alfred-music.com/player/AlfredOrchestra2008/29745/player.html?osCsid=918c5d3dfeec290a7e4879e24281b2bc

New World Symphony (professional video, original version)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_SS_w1Q47s&feature=related

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2011-01-05T20:18:00.000-08:00

Click on link to view

Collective Soul - Shine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKROlUWkbsQ

Scorpions - Hurricane 2000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCC97heYa5U

A few photos from the concert / Tuesday, December 7, 2010

2010-12-09T13:28:00.000-08:00

The Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra / Annual Winter Concert

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-12-06T18:38:00.000-08:00

To My String Orchestra,

PRACTICE! I'll see you all at 6pm, well fed and looking pretty...yes, you too guys.

See you then, Ms. Lim

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-11-29T15:33:00.000-08:00

One more week...before the concert. Let's be able to move forward with our music. That means we don't keep going over the same spots for intonation, dynamic, rhythm, etc. problems. There are moments of sheer beauty, when you all are breathing and phrasing and playing very professionally. I love those moments!!! We want more of those.

Snacks are a privilege. Make sure that you throw away your trash and water bottles. Each week, I pick up an average of 10 water bottles before I leave.

Question to know why you play your instrument. Is it for you? Is it for your parents? Is it just cause your friends play? Prizes for coming up to meand answering this questions.

Attire for Concert

Girls:
-White long-sleeved dress shirt - check that when you lift your arms, you don't show skin

-Black dress pants
-Ankle-length black dress pants (no skirts or knee-length pants)

-Black close-toed shoes

-Black socks or nylons

Boys:
-Black socks or nylons
-White long-sleeved dress shirt
-Black dress pants, black belt

-Black dress shoes

-Black socks

-Black necktie

The doors will open at 7:00 p.m.
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m.

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-11-20T15:59:00.000-08:00

We're down to the wire. You have practiced hard for months now and are getting excited to finally show off these pieces to your family and friends. Be sure to invite your extended family, private teachers, school friends and school music teachers to our performance at 7:30 on December 7. Pasadena High School.

This week, in addition to practicing any spots that could use some polishing...be sure to play ALL of your pieces in a row ALL the way through without stopping. If you do this every day it will build up your endurance for the performance coming up. Also, you can experiment by practicing in a different room, or facing a different way. Try practicing outside if the weather is nice, or putting on a mini concert for your family or pets (or stuffed animals).

Bring two EXTRA things to our next rehearsal:

1) Folding Music Stand (We're practicing for part of the rehearsal on stage and won't have access to stands)

2) Wear a Crazy Hat to rehearsal for some rehearsal fun!

Greg Fuentes | PYSO Coordinator

2010-11-13T11:07:00.000-08:00

Hello PYSO Symphony Families,

We are in the final stages in getting our airline tickets and Air Force Base Credential for the Symphony Colorado Springs Retreat.

To do this, we need a copy of the Musician/Student birth certificate or a copy of their passport, showing their name and birth date.

Please provide a copy on or before November 23, 2010.

Thank you,

Greg Fuentes PYSO Coordinator

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-11-12T15:01:00.000-08:00

Thank you for the really great rehearsal last week! We got so much accomplished and will need to make new adjustments to our balance and listening now that we have the additional PYSO Symphony Brass and Percussionists filling out our sound.

If you are already doing this, then ignore the following: Please, please, please play along with a metronome at home!!!! The moments of greatest rushing occur when you have a rhythm over and over (perhaps you get tired of it and try to get it over quickly?)

Try recording yourself (digital music recorder, computer, Iphone, video camera, etc.) and listen to your practice session. What do you notice about your sound?

Joy
Lengthen ALL notes from mm. 28-39. It should sound like there is virtually no breath in that entire section. Uber legato especially on the quarter notes and at the end of slurs.

Rough Riders
Be careful not to over-blow on the louder and higher notes. It is best to back off and be sure those notes are clear, in-tune, and balanced with others rather than just blare when you see a "f" or "ff" on the page.

3-Minute Nutcraker
Ask yourself if you are you really playing "f" and "p" in Trepak. Make a change if you aren't.
Lighten everything up in Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

***Have fun with this piece and add some movements to each section that represent it's mood. Share these with others at our next rehearsal.***

Thanks, and I'll see you on Tuesday. Only 3 more rehearsals before our concert!

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-11-08T15:34:00.000-08:00

Musicians,

Bravehearts Thanks to the challengers (and those they challenged) for last rehearsal. It takes a lot of courage to play in front of your peers. Congratulations, you all did very well!

Seating for Cello and Viola is complete for the Winter Concert. Violins will be placed in the following weeks. I'm still looking for the leaders for 1st and 2nd violin.

Dance of the Tumblers syncopation of rehearsal "P"

Christmas Festival - 1st violins intonation in 3rd position; celli/ viola for C# and F# you need to s t r e t c h your fingers more

Sheep May Safely Graze - m. 64 - 81

Youtube Videos http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psP0XgTI2VE&safe_search=on
and Mr. Bean conducts Christmas orchestra

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-11-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

Great job being prepared to play your music and arriving on-time!

We get so much accomplished when everyone is responsible. Thank you also students and parents who have been bringing snacks. It is really appreciated by the members of our group.

For next week's rehearsal, please prepare by practicing all of your music with a metronome. Rushing and dragging are particular challenges in Joy and Rough Riders. If you don't own your own metronome you can go to http://www.metronomeonline.com/ for a free on-line version.

http://www.metronomeonline.com/

You should also practice with the recordings provided in my October 8 blog entry. Entrances after rests are one of the greatest challenges in music. Be sure to practice your RESTS also! Make each rest an "active" time. Be counting in your head, listening to what is happening around you, etc.

FOR FUN: Check out this Salsa version of the Sugar Plum Fairy. It's pretty cool!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcC_F3f3JPw

For a treat at break...Bring me a piece of paper with one question you have about the video, and also tell me what are the color of the back-ground wall lights.

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-10-28T14:33:00.000-07:00

Musicians,

Seating Challenge: I forgot to do the seat challenges last rehearsal, so I will let 6 people try next rehearsal. Remember this is the last time to do challenges before the
Winter Concert. Don't lose hope... I will allow more challenges before the retreat and the Spring Concert.

Smart Practice: I know you all have many extra activities such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, art, Chinese, French, Spanish, besides 5 hours of homework. Smart practice
is being able to pinpoint the measure or notes that cause you to stumble in rehearsal and focus on correcting those spots. Once it's corrected, repeat it 100x.
It's redundant and a waste of time to go from the beginning of a piece to the end. Make sure that you are marking the places that are messy in rehearsal so
when you are at home, you make efficient use of your limited time.

Sectionals:
Viola: Play out! Alex has fun phrase reminders like "Angry Christmas".
Bass and Celli: Practice your triplet section by SUBDIVIDING!
Violins: Please tape your extra page onto your "A Christmas Festival". Make sure you can see m. 262 so we AVOID page turns. A lot of time was spent on making sure that chords
were done with whole bows and beautiful tone.

Blog Challenge: Looking for the best Youtube video. Submit yours next week. The video has to be music related and must make me laugh so hard I cry...this will earn you a prize!

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2010-10-28T06:35:00.000-07:00

Great rehearsal on Tuesday.

Isn't it interesting how we spent most of our time getting to know each other and yet we sounded better than ever.

This week: Be ready to perform the entire program of music that we currently have.

Also: Please write down the date and place of the first performance of the Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky and give it to me for a treat at break time.

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2010-10-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

All Winds and Percussion - Please work on Water Music, especially dynamics

Strings - Work on the Mozart, especially style and tempo.

Woodwinds - If you write Handel's full name and birthday on a piece of paper and hand it to me during break, you will receive a special treat.

Brass and Percussion - If you write Brahm's full name and birthday on a piece of paper and hand it to me during break, you will receive a special treat.

All Strings - If you write Mozart's full name and birthday on a piece of paper and hand it to me during break, you will receive a special treat.

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-10-22T17:29:00.001-07:00

At our next rehearsal we will be diving into The Three-Minute
Nutcracker- Waltz of the Flowers. Please practice it as many times as
you need, and as carefully as possible so that it is practically memorized.

Remember...most mistakes occur after a rest, so please practice counting
your rests as well.

For the other two pieces exaggerate your dynamics and be sure you are
playing every accent, articulation, and...and (searching for another "a"
term) aerophone correctly.

Have a great weekend!

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-10-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Musicians,

Congratulations to Vince Ho and Ryan Lee for moving to the 1st violin section! Remember that you may challenge for another 2 weeks and then we will have permanent seats for our Winter concert. Then we start rotating seats again for our Big Bear concert and for our Spring Concert.

Thank you for arriving promptly last rehearsal, my former conductor always said, "Early is on time and on time is late!" We will start tuning at 5:45pm sharp.

Next week is the last week to turn in your Sees orders. And I know you're all wondering which ones are my personal favorites...Nuts and Chews:)

Practice
We will be performing the Dance of the Tumblers, Sheep May Safely Graze, and A Christmas Festival (with the cut) for the Winter concert.

If you feel that you are playing all of these pieces perfectly, it may be because A) You're delusional B) You practice 4 hours a day C) wishful thinking or D) you're channeling Mozart's spirit. In other words, PRACTICE!

Here are the problem areas...steady rhythmic pulse- not too fast or too slow; dynamics- not delayed; entrances - counting measures of rest and eighth rests; beautiful tone - playing with heart, phrasing.

Challenge
Thanks to those of you who wrote the stories, however I didn't receive any of those to read. Please bring them in paper form so I can look them over.

For Fun...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rImN2THFFZk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7X_X1zdH8k

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-10-15T18:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Musicians,

Last rehearsal, I heard a great deal of improvement on the Christmas Festival. Keep it up! If you'd like to hear any of the pieces(except Cakewalk and Prelude), you can go to jwpepper.com and type in the name of the piece and composer and listen to the mp3.

Starting this week, we'll have challenges for different seats. 3 challenges per rehearsal for the next 3 weeks. Here's the catch...it can be any piece any measure.

Please work on Sheep May Safely Graze with a metronome. Ms. Chen says violins should be very familiar with, "Subdivide". Celli and bass, please make sure to practice your Portamento bow strokes. Viola, play out, beautifully, you have tricky intonation at m. 67 - 71.
Continue practicing Christmas Festival and your "Dance of the Tumblers".

Challenge: Think of a story line for "Sheep May Safely Graze". For example, the beginning sounds like the setting of the story...velvety green rolling hills, sheep dotting those hills, babbling brook that runs through, etc. Remember the plot arc, introduction, climax, and conclusion.

Also, for last week's challenge there were some great similes for "Forte". Here are just a few...Ear-splitting, Lippy, Wild, Confident, Forceful, Shocking, Roaring, Wakes the dead, Vociferous, Full, Heavy, Intense.

See you next rehearsal and remember, "Early is on time, and on time is late!"

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-10-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

Knowing the history of a piece, it's composer, and the time period it was written in can help us interpret our music as we practice andperform it. The stories of our musical past can enrich our lives andour interpretation of music. Take a few minutes this week and check outthe links below for more information about each of the composers of our Winter Concert pieces.

http://www.tchaikovsky-research.org/en/index.html
Tchaikovsky first studied law and worked as a legal clerk before goingto the music conservatory.

http://karlking.us/
This link has especially interesting first-person stories about thecomposer ("Karl King Stories")

http://www.manhattanbeachmusiconline.com/frank_ticheli/index.html
Did you know Frank Ticheli is a living composer who teaches at USC andresides in the San Gabriel Valley?

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-10-11T15:35:00.000-07:00

Sorry this is so late!

Dear Musicians,

Please work on Cakewalk, and A Christmas Festival. We will review what was done during sectionals. Also, please make sure to practice the parts that you missed during rehearsal.

Tip #1

Do not circle everything on your page. Those marks will become meaningless. Instead start doing shorthand for yourselves.

For example, instead of circling a F , write "loud" next to it. If you keep missing the dynamic, use a synonym for "loud".

Challenge: How many synonyms for loud can you come up with?

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-10-08T15:32:00.000-07:00

I've really enjoyed listening to the recordings of our pieces that we made on Tuesday. I hear lots of great things...especially "Trepak" in 3-Minute Nutcracker. We have lots of work to do in the coming weeks to get everything just right for our concert. Let's make it a goal to REALLY know ALL of the notes and rhythms of every piece so we can begin to work on the more expressive elements of our music. After reading this...scroll down to Ms. Lim's notes from September 30.

Read the section "Full Rehearsal" I couldn't have said it better!***Reminder*** Number your measures for an extra treat this week!

Please take the time to listen to these recordings of our pieces below. Pay careful attention to what parts you hear the most and see how your individual part either shines as the melody, or supports someone else playing the melody.

Joy Recording http://www.manhattanbeachmusic.com/audio/joy.mp3

3-Minute Nutcracker Recording http://www.halleonard.com/audio/08725266.mp3

Rough Riders Recording http://www.barnhouse.com/samples/mp3/012-2752-00.mp3

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-09-30T18:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Musicians,

I love the energy you all bring to each rehearsal. Here are highlights from our rehearsal and some notes from sectional. Hopefully, you already have these written in your notes. We will start the seating challenges next week, so remember to practice!

Full Rehearsal.... Dynamics, Articulation, and Intonation. Watch out for the dynamics because they change quickly! Look ahead to see where they are and don't be late in changing them. Articulation is easy to forget or ignore. But, those are total rookie mistakes, and we are an honors orchestra, much too good for beginner mistakes like those. Make sure we don't miss any accents or fz, stacc., marcato, etc. Last, but not least, is intonation. Just because you use the correct fingering doesn't guarantee that your note is correct. Please listen, and then adjust your fingers to the correct pitch. When in doubt, play a little softer and then when you're confident, play out.

Here are some notes from Sectionals....

Violins Rhythm Practice! Use a metronome and remember to subdivide so we don't rush the quarter note, especially 1 m. before rehearsal D. For the melody at rehearsal E, remember to say, "Strawberry, Banana" to keep rhythm even; 9mm. before rehearsal F make sure that you clean up the tied notes, "No leakage!"

Viola Watch out for sudden changes! For example, 5 mm. before rehearsal D; arco to pizz. at rehearsal D; pizz. to arco at 5 mm. before rehearsal E; 9mm. before rehearsal F the fz to p, etc.

Cello m. 5 be at the tip of your bow; intonation at m. 6 C natural; 5 before rehearsal C intonation on notes D, C#, B. Congrats Minor! Mr. Sweeney was very impressed with your focus.

Bass Aggressive sound - really attack your >s; also cresc. through your descending scale at 2 mm. before rehearsal A; pizz. at new location for better sound; fix intonation 5 mm. before rehearsal F

***Remember to bring your music stands***

Challenge number your measures for Cakewalk and shows it to me for a prize at next rehearsal.

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-09-29T18:04:00.000-07:00

This week we made good progress with beginning to understand our parts and how they fit in with each other. Now that you are getting more comfortable with the notes and rhythms, be sure to concentrate on the specific articulations and dynamics. In the Ticheli and Akey,articulations are extremely important.

Practice the Tchaikovsky with a metronome.

Please number ALL of your measures before the next rehearsal!

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2010-09-29T14:57:00.000-07:00

Strings:

Continue work on the Mozart and the Brahms.
Specifically, check intonation from letter B to the D.S. on the Brahms
And play much lighter for the Mozart

Brass, Woodwinds, and Percussion:

Continue work on Brahms
Brass work on intonation at Letter A
Wood winds work on note accuracy from Coda to the end at Cut time

Also, begin working on the “Water Music”

Notes from Mr. Taylor (Symphony)

2010-09-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

Strings be ready to start playing the Mozart.

We will be re-seating everyone as soon as we hear everyone. We may also hear parts of the Brahms just to see how quickly you can learn a piece of music. We will not be able to hear everyone in one night (especially violins)

Woodwinds, Brass, and Percussion.

Begin looking at the Brahms for Tuesday nights sectionals. (review any solo sections)

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-09-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

Hello Musicians,

Great first rehearsal! I heard some very lovely things happening last night. Everyone should listen to the Beethoven Allegretto. You can go to www.jwpepper.com. Type in Beethoven Keiser Allegretto and you should see a mp3 button. Press that and enjoy.

Please look over your pieces. Notice the pencil marks you put in (hopefully you have many). What do the majority of your marks remind you to do? Is it intonation, dynamics or articulation?

Seating will depend on your preparation and your attention during rehearsals. Also, there will be more formal challenges later on. Ask me about this during rehearsal.

Joseph and Natalie, great job! You played so confidently that you each sounded like 4 instruments. If you know any string bass or violas, please invite them to join us or they can email me directly: annalim603@hotmail.com

Thanks Everyone for a wonderful start!
Anna Lim, conductor

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-09-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

Thank you for a great first rehearsal! If it is any indication of the
good things to come, then I am very excited for our future as an
ensemble. Your rehearsal etiquette was outstanding and we were able to
get so much accomplished. Be sure to check this blog each week. Though
it is not intended to replace your taking good notes and marking your
music during rehearsal, it is a resource to remind yourselves what we
did, and need to do before the next rehearsal.

This week as you practice, familiarize yourself with the counting of the
rhythms and "road maps" of each piece. Pay particular attention to your
posture as you practice. It will not only help us look our best, but
you will sound better as well.

Musically Yours,
Mrs. Kubota

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-05-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

Wind Ensemble (and PYSO brass) musicians we have only one rehearsal leftbefore our concert day. To be ready for it, be sure to really practicethose sections we struggled with as an ensemble last week. Below a fewof the pieces are links to the recordings that can guide your practice.

Abracadabra

Break out your *metronome* (or go to onlinemetronome.com) and set it to138 BPM.

We tend to slow down any time the music gets softer or has sparseinstrumentation such as at mm. 14, 66. It would be great to be able toperfect the *dynamic subtleties* at our next rehearsal.) Trumpets paycareful attention at m. 28 to having *clear entrances* on beat 2.Everyone be sure your *rhythms *are perfect from m. 49-57.
http://www.manhattanbeachmusic.com/audio/abracadabra.mp3

Night on Bald Mountain

This piece is really coming along nicely. Thanks for your work on it.Flutes, Clarinets, Oboe, and Trumpets. Practice pushing the rhythmahead and try double tonguing at m. 10 so you do not slow down. (Halfnote = 60 BPM) First clarinets, do not rush m. 60. Brass, be sure topractice m. 68. Practice playing this one ALL the way through manytimes so you don't miss the Coda!
http://www.alfred-music.com/player/TexasUIL1999ConcertBand/5195/player.html?osCsid=ff33dabbbcda7b9182a145f6bcd04add

/W.E. Only.../

Lullabye

Phrasing, phrasing, phrasing. Keep it legato, smooth and always makeeach note move to or from somewhere.

http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/mp3player.jsp?song_url=10071329.mp3&song_title=LULLABYE&filename=/dbload/B/B_10071329.xml<http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/mp3player.jsp?song_url=10071329.mp3&song_title=LULLABYE&filename=/dbload/B/B_10071329.xml>

Bellingrath Gardens

Run it straight through. Dynamics. This will be fun to play againwith the String Orchestra at the concert!

http://www.alfred-music.com/player/BelwinOrchestra20041/BFOM04008/player.html

Notes from Mr. Taylor (PYSO)

2010-05-04T21:18:00.000-07:00

We hope you will come out for one or all of our Alumni weekend events.
1. Play "Wildwood Flower" a PYSO favorite on stage with us at our Spring Concert on Sunday the 16th.
2. Thursday, May 13th - Come to a Jennifer Frautschi Master Class at Crawford Family Forum. Here is a link for RSVPs for the Frautschi master class: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/679243636
or https://168.215.214.216/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org/violin-master-class-with-jennifer-frautschi/
3. Saturday, May 15th - Come hang out with Alumni and PYSO Staff to reconnect with friends at California Pizza Kitchen on Los Robles. Pasadena Symphony Association to host the space and small bites.
4. Saturday, May 15th - Pasadena Symphony Concert featuring PYSO Alumni of the Year, Jennifer Frautschi. PYSO Alumni members eligible for 20% off normal ticket price.
5. Sunday May 16th (3:00 pm) – PYSO Spring Concert at the Civic Auditorium, featuring a new piece by Richard Meyer and a performance by the PYSO Alumni with the PYSO

For more information on events, music to Wildwood Flower, or rehearsal information contact David Hull at DHull@pasadenasymphony-pops.org or (626)793-7172 ext. 21
See ya there!

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-04-30T09:57:00.000-07:00

Only 2 weeks left of String Orchestra Rehearsal....

I know, it's so sad, I cried as well. Here are some places to practice for each section. We will not be playing Hungarian Dance.

Ghosts of Brandenburg (metronome: dotted quarter = 112)

1st Violins: More detached at m. 3; keep it soft, mysterious (P) at m. 12; FREEZE at the tip at m. 15; Start at tip and quickly crescendo at m. 191; GO! Remember "POP" to the frog m. 193 - end (then you might survive:); Big accents m. 249 - 253

2nd Violins: More detached at m. 3; keep it soft, mysterious (P) at m. 10; stretch G at m. 15 then FREEZE at the tip; Start at tip and quickly crescendo at m. 191; Remember "POP" to the frog m. 209 - end (then you might survive:); Big accents m. 249 - 253

Viola: More detached at m. 3; FREEZE at the tip at m. 15; Remember "POP" to the frog m. 212 and 217 - 218 (then you might survive:); Clean entrance at m. 214; Big accents at m. 235 - m. 241 and m. 250 - 253

Celli: Intonation on solo at the beginning and vibrato on each note in m. 3; quick crescendo at m. 191, Remember "POP" to the frog m. 197- 199 and m. 217 - 218 (then you might survive:); Clean entrance at m. 214; GIANT FP at m. 229, stop the tied note early for a clean entrance in m. 230; Big accents at m. 235 - m. 241; Push it at m. 249 - 255

Bass: Intonation on solo at the beginning and vibrato on each note in m. 3, quick crescendo at m. 191, Remember "POP" to the frog at m. 217 - 218 (then you might survive:); Clean entrance at m. 214; GIANT FP at m. 229, stop the tied note early for a clean entrance in m. 230; Big accents at m. 235 - m. 241; Push it at m. 249 - 255

Mythos

Tam Lyn

Bellingrath Gardens

PYSO 2010 Solo Recital

2010-04-19T17:59:00.001-07:00

PYSO 2010 Solo Recital

2010-04-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

Notes from Mr. Taylor (PYSO)

2010-03-11T18:45:00.000-08:00

PYSO Assignment

Listen to "Inchon" (orchestral version) on alfred.com and decide which is the lead instrument in every section of the piece.

Northwood’s Resort in Big Bear

2010-03-06T17:10:00.000-08:00

Northwood’s Resort in Big Bear / Day Two

2010-03-06T17:06:00.000-08:00

Northwood’s Resort in Big Bear

2010-03-05T22:59:00.000-08:00

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-02-21T20:25:00.000-08:00

String Orchestra,

I know that there's a lot of music that I've handed out. Here's what we are going to play for our retreat in 2 weeks. Bellingrath Gardens, Ode to Joy, Brandenburg No. 5, Tam Lyn, and Halo.

Here are some spots that you should be looking at before next rehearsal.

Violin - For a Symphony Bar from Mrs. Scheidemantle, "Why is it called Brandenburg Concerto?"
Brandenburg- practice detache bow stroke for eighth notes and quarter notes
Bellingrath Gardens- 2nd violins: m. 62 and 73 practice with F and P dynamics

Viola - Brandenbug - practice the detache bow stroke, allowing for the different lengths for eighth and quarter notes. Practice m. 58 and stretch for the g#. Also, m. 52 cresc. and decresc.

Cello -Brandenburg, detache bow strokes, remember to use open strings whenever possible for a more open sound. Don't back off on the eighth note runs. Please practice the change from G# to G natural in m. 60

Bass - Brandenburg - m. 40 practice for intonation issues. Make sure the initial E half note is in tune before continuing. Watch out for the C# and F# as well.
Tam Lyn, m. 17 and m. 53

Solo Auditions are next week. Be prepared and practice. Bring a copy of your music for the judges to look at.

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-01-31T15:56:00.000-08:00

Here are the bowings for Bellingrath Gardens.

Please open the PDF for your instrument (sent via email) and write in the bowings on your music. Regardless if you use your stand partners music, I would like each of you to have the correct bowings in your music. I will be randomly checking music next rehearsal.

Also, please work on Engines of Resistance, Ode to Joy, and Tam Lyn. Work hard!

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-01-22T22:36:00.000-08:00

Remember to listen and play along with the pieces from last week's blognotes.

Also, please begin to memorize the first and last few measures of eachsection of music within each piece so you can look up more. This weekyou got a taste of just how far you will be from the conductor when weare in a full orchestra set-up. Unfortunately, if you only depend onyour ears, you will sound like you are late to each downbeat.

For the retreat we will be playing: Ode to Joy, Bellingrath Gardens, Engines of Resistance, Black ForestOverture (it was our best from the Winter Concert), Fa Una Canzona,Lullabye and maybe more.

Looking ahead:

I'm exploring the possibilities of performing Night onBald Mountain, Tricycle, Amen and a piece or two from the retreat.

More to come soon.
_

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2010-01-14T17:30:00.000-08:00

String Orchestra

Thank you for some wonderful sight-reading last rehearsal. Now, you have a lot of pieces in your folder, so here's the breakdown of when we are going to play them.

Retreat
Bellingrath Gardens- Violins and Violas work on the new bowings
Ode to Joy- Dynamics!!!
Hungarian Dance No. 5 (maybe)
Engines of Resistance- you play this so well, BUT, there could be more P, mp, mf
Tam Lyn- please look over so we can play it
Circinus- I know, I know, but it sounded so beautiful, we have to play it again
Halo 3- more aggressive, especially at the end, don't lose tone, more bow weight

Spring Concert
Mozart Symphony No. 40
Hungarian Dance No. 5
Others t.b.a

Here's a conundrum for next week. We played 3 strings at one time (chord) for the Hungarian Dance. How would you play all 4 strings at one time?? Whoever comes up with the answer will get a prize! Creativity counts...
_

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2010-01-07T08:57:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! I hope you had a restful and wonderful holiday break. Our first rehearsal back went very well. I appreciate your energy andenthusiasm each rehearsal. Thanks.

Remember to get something to eat before coming to rehearsal next week,and please listen to the following pieces that you will be getting overthe next couple of months at the links below:

"Bellingrath Gardens"
http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/mp3player.jsp?song_url=2474532.mp3&song_title=BELLINGRATH%20GARDENS&filename=/dbload/B/B_2474532.xml

"Engines of Resistance"
http://www.alfred-music.com/player/Belwin1996BeginningBand/BD9670/player.html?osCsid=dea35abd098fdbaa3d6e45ebaa9e22b0

"Ode to Joy"
http://www.alfred-music.com/player/AlfredStrings2000/19585/player.html

"Amen!"
http://www.manhattanbeachmusic.com/audio/amen.mp3

Sincerely, Mrs. Kubota
_

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2009-12-14T18:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays Wind Ensemble!

It was really a treat to get to work with you this semester making great music. Please don't forget to take your instrument out over the winter break to practice and keep up your skills.

Perhaps even perform an impromptu concert for your family or friends. I look forward to continuing to build on excellence as we prepare for the Arrowhead Retreat in March.

Musically Yours,Mrs. Kubota

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-12-10T20:11:00.000-08:00

Dear String Orchestra,

What an amazing first performance!!! People really enjoyed Circinus. Yeah, you all pulled it off beautifully! We do NOT have rehearsal until January 5th.

So have yourself a "Merry Little Christmas" and a very Happy New Year!!!!!

See you next year, Ms. Lim

Notes from Mr. Taylor (PYSO)

2009-12-10T17:13:00.000-08:00

Click on link to view Metallica - Fuel ( W/ San Francisco Symphony )

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcQzueeBgKc

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-12-04T14:42:00.000-08:00

4 more days until...The Holiday Concert!!!

The orchestra is sounding beautiful. We still have some "uh-oh" moments to fix. Here are some places to work on so that people will be weeping in the audience (because it's beautiful, right!)

Small Overture - 1st Violin (m. 1 - 9) and Celli (m. 9 - 16) - please work on the opening melody, keeping a steady beat and phrasing

- 2nd Violin (m. 45 - 62) and Viola (m. 43 - 62) remember to "float" the up bows so that it's light in the Upper Half of your bow

- String Bass (m. 33 - 42) memorize the (m. 33 and 34) so that you are able to look up and watch the tempo. You are so important to the orchestra. I need you to be right with me here.

Circinus - String Bass - (m. 25 - 32) listen and adjust your intonation; (m. 49 - 56) work on phrasing so you are not pulsing on every note.

- Celli - memorize the first melody at the beginning. I'd like for you to look up during that whole opening (m. 1 - 4); (m. 33) you know when we played it at the quicker tempo, you were solid. BUT when we went back to the true tempo, you fell apart. You need to count out loud for those subdivisions. 4 more days....

Santa at the Symphony -

Hallelujah Chorus -

.

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-11-29T21:27:00.000-08:00

Listen, Listen, Listen!
Rhythm, Rhythm
Cheek-to-Cheek
PRACTICE
Dynamics, Dynamics, Dynamics
Fun, Fun, Fun, Fun
Inspire, Inspire, Inspire

There are so many things that go into performance. Only a few are listed above. In order to play an instrument, some 200 items need to be working at the same time. Compound that with the fact that your neighbor may or may not have those 200 items going on and it's a miracle that any performances happen! Can you tell I'm freaking out! OK, let's say that you all would like to have a sane conductor at the next rehearsal. Here are some items that need to be revisited this week.
Circinus- We need to connect our phrases, musical sentences, so that we don't sound like Morse Code or "Squarinus". -Remember that bow speed is key. Save then GO! connect your bows so their is no stopping! Here are some measures to work on 12-13; 16-17; 24-25; 28-29; 40-41; 44-45; 48-49; 56-57; 60-61; 64-65.
- General rule for musical shaping, if the notes go up, crescendo and if the notes go down, decrescendo.
Hallelujah- Where was the "joy" last night? We need to have energy in every single bow stroke! Download or look at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6_nJ11BgTE the London Symphony
Santa at the Symphony- You are wonderful with your attacks, or beginning of notes, what we need to improve on is the release of the notes. We don't throw them away when we run out of bow...we calculate the bow speed to match the length of note. For instance, the Beethoven's Fifth, we need to hold the whole note for a duration of 4 beats, not 3.5 or 3.75 or 3.999.
Small Overture- 1st Violins - Do not rush the dotted quarter and following eighth notes in m. 1, 3, 5.
-2nd Violins - Remember to be in the upper half at m. 45 - 62; 79-86.
- Celli-Do not rush the dotted quarter and subsequent eighth notes in m. 9, 11, 13.
-String Bass- Big improvement in Circinus with your intonation at m. 17, keep improving the entire piece. Also, in Small Overture, please fix your intonation at m. 9 - 16. That's the really obvious spot. However, when you hold note, you are super important to the overall structure of the chords that are moving on top of your notes. Remember guys, you are the foundation!

Listen, Listen, Listen! has to be done throughout rehearsal and performance

Rhythm, Rhythm have to listen and watch to have the tempo that we all agree on

Cheek-to-Cheek have to practice this at home, it won't spontaneously happen at performance or rehearsal

PRACTICE we are only as good as our weakest player, do not be the weakest player!

Dynamics, Dynamics, Dynamics are what separate our orchestra from beginning groups

Fun, Fun, Fun, Fun What?? Oh yeah, we should have fun when we perform

Inspire, Inspire, Inspire Music moves people, you might inspire someone to take up the instrument. That's how I got hooked!

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-11-20T14:33:00.000-08:00

Wonderful, Fantastic, Magnifique ! Those are the words I would use to describe last weeks rehearsal.

Now how do we sustain that level of playing, or even push beyond it? Get inspired. Go watch a concert...Live is best, but now you can watch practically anything on YouTube. Next rehearsal, I'd like you to tell me what concert you watched and what about the performance was inspirational. The Berlin Philharmonic is playing at the Disney Hall and is said to be one of the best orchestras in the world right now. I'll be going to the Monday night concert, and I'm sure I'll be singing their praises at next rehearsal.

Things to look at this week, Strings Basses you are the tonal base for the entire orchestra. No pressure, but if you are not in tune, it makes everyone sound out of tune! Please work on Circinus m. 17 - 33. Take this to your private teacher for extra help.

- Violins Beautiful job sweetening up Circinus! Now we just need to connect our phrases by controlling our bow speed. Please take a look at m. 40 - 41. Don't let there be a gap in-between these measures
- Violas Great job motivating all the other sections with your musicality! It only takes one person to inspire the orchestra, but I have an entire section that does it. Yeah!! Don't let the little mistakes happen during Small Overture. During your non-melodic lines make sure you're intonation stays intact.
- Cellos I'm looking forward to m. 33 to be wonderfully rhythmic as well as played with such beautiful tone that it makes Mr. Sweeney weep. I'll be looking for the tears in his eyes next sectional!

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-11-16T14:10:00.001-08:00

Santa at the Symphony m. 44 - everyone needs to lift and set their bows during the eighth rest.

Circinus - I will have auditions for the "sweetest" sound. There will be prizes awarded to the loveliest playing

Haikus- Brooke is the only one who turned in a submission last week. If you have yours turn it in for a prize.

You are sounding so wonderful! Thank you for your hard work, so far. I'm looking forward to our performance in December. Remember to invite your friends and family! It's always nice to perform for a full house.

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2009-10-23T15:52:00.000-07:00

Practice everything with more sensitivity and one or two dynamics lessthan marked this week.

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-10-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Catherine and Eden for making it to 1st Violin! Below are some places to look at for next rehearsal.

1st and 2nd Violins - Please work on "sweetening" your melodic lines in Circinus (m. 41 - 44) Also, in Santa at the Symphony m. 13 - 30, remember to lighten up your pizz.

Viola- Mr. Chu would like you to remember your "happy" brush strokes. Santa at the Symphony m. 2 - 4.

Celli- Here's a quote from Mr. Sweeney, "Use your metronome and subdivide everything!"

String Bass - Your coach would like you to always remember count, and watch the conductor. Please practice the transition from arco to pizz (m. 12-13) in Santa at the Symphony.

Also, please keep your ears open and listen for intonation.

Haiku Contest - A haiku is a poem with 3 lines. The first line has 5 syllables, the second has 7 syllables, and the third has 5 lines. Submit your haiku next rehearsal and the winner will receive a prize. Look at the attachment for ideas.

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-10-15T14:48:00.000-07:00

After observing your wonderful sectionals, here are some things to work on during the week...

1st and 2nd Violins practice "sweetening" the tone in Circinus. Remember not to attack the notes (especially on the E string), but rather lean in with lots of vibrato. Here's how to check if it's sweet enough. Play it for a parent and watch their body language. If they cringe, you still need to work on making it beautiful. Make them tear up because it's beautiful not because it hurts them!

Violas, you are so very musical! Now, if only you looked as good as you sound. I know..."ouch", but I'd like to see your scrolls up and not facing the ground. Make your teachers proud...if they say something at your next lesson about your wonderful new posture, I'll give you money. Scouts honor guys, don't try to trick me!

Celli and String Bass, you're intonation has improved immensely (now that we know how important it is to tune:). Now, we just have to figure out that rhythm thing. Metronomes are OK, but counting out loud, especially subdividing, is even better. There are moments when things move too quickly in Circinus, m. 45 - 48 (especially the sixteenth notes) that need attention. I will give a prize to the person who has the greatest exercise for steady rhythm.

Congratulations Jacqueline for making to the 2nd round for 1st Violin seating. Next week, we will find out who gets placed in 1st violin. Great job to all who have tried out!

Here's something to try for fun, works on cell phones - I checked:)

Phone Songs

All of the following songs may be played on a touch-tone phone. Commas are pauses, are eighth notes, and hyphens are held notes.
Deck The Halls

-9 6 3 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 6 2 -3 2 2 1 -2
-9 6 3 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 6 2 -3 2 2 1 -2
-2 3 6 2 -3 6 9 2 1 2 6 9 # 9 6 3 -3
-9 6 3 2 1 2 3 1 # # # # -9 6 3 2 -1

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2009-10-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a reminder of some GREAT quotes from your sectionals this week:

Ask yourself...How long is that note? When does it end? Keep your fingers close to the keys to avoid "blurbs." Don't stop when you make a mistake, play through the phrase. Subdivide!

Low instruments, play out...everyone else, listen down.Brasses find your pitches by playing up the scale. Winds when playing legato let your tongue ride the air. Watch the conductor!

Bring your music jokes written down on a piece of paper and put them onMrs. Kubota's stand before rehearsal next week.

Notes from Mrs. Kubota (Wind Ensemble)

2009-10-08T17:15:00.001-07:00

Please number your music so we can reference specific measures moreeasily during rehearsal. Be sure you know how to count and play everyrhythm, especially on In the Bleak Midwinter.

Bring your favorite(clean) music joke with you to the next rehearsal.

Crusade http://www.alfred-music.com/player/AlfredConcertBand2006/24649/player.html?osCsid=a574da0be020e7464558dd16289d9b55

In the Bleak Midwinter http://www.alfred-music.com/player/TheDivineComedyRobertWSmithV1/bd00972/player.html

Black Forest Overture http://www.halleonard.com/audio/04001610.mp3

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-10-08T17:15:00.000-07:00

Here are some places to practice before next rehearsal.

1st and 2nd Violins - Circinus, slowly and accurately. Keep in mind the F naturals that were pretty out of tune.
Mrs. Scheidemantle had a great suggestion of holding a C while playing your notes. If you have a tuner, you should be able to do this.

Violas - Mr. Wetzel's "The Big Three" - point of contact, bow speed, and bow weight. Be aware of all three when you practice your Circinus. Also, try Mr. Chu's ideas for more "excitement" or phrasing in your music. If it's boring, there's something wrong!

Celli - I think Mr. Sweeney made his point regarding accurate tuning. Please bring your tuners and tune before rehearsal gets started. Also, did you try counting out loud while playing??? Try it, it's challenging!

String Bass - Mr. Pfiefer suggested a more "bouncy" spicatto bow stroke for the Santa at the Symphony. Try it out and see if you can control the speed and height of the bounces.

If you can tell me the composer of the Messiah's "Hallelujah Chorus", I'll give you a Symphony Bar at next rehearsal.

************************************

Notes from Ms. Lim (String Orchestra)

2009-10-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

Another great rehearsal! We now sound like a 50 piece string orchestra, let's try to sound like a 100 person string orchestra! Here are some specific places to practice:

Small Overture: Even when you practice at home, please make sure that you play with dynamics. Make your parents cry...because it's so beautiful, NOT because it's so boring. Celli-pickup to m.9-16 practice with metronome at 140. Don't rush those eighth notes! Violas, please practice your melody at pickup to m. 17-32. Violas and 2nd Violins, make sure at m. 63-70 those eighth notes don't make people seasick. Phrase, phrase, phrase! 1st Violins be sure to hold your dotted quarter notes for the full length at the beginning to m.8.

Santa at the Symphony: Everyone, practice the lift and set at the beginning "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik", I will test individuals at the next rehearsal. 1st Violins, your "Silent Night" at m. 44. Make sure it sounds like the Christmas carol, because everyone's supposed to recognize it. String bass, I really need a confident downbeat at m. 13, please practice m.11-14. Celli, at m. 18 and 26, there's a treacherous pizz. to arco section.

Please also practice Circinus, Hallelujah, and Mozart.
Congratulations to Eden who made it to the next round in becoming a 1st violin.