The Gustavus Symphony Orchestra will be performing their fall concert this Friday, November 4, at 7:30 p.m. in Bjorling Recital Hall. The director of the Gustavus Symphony Orchestra, Dr. Ruth Lin, has seen first hand the growth of her musicians this year, and is excited for the concert.
“I’m happy and impressed with the way this years group has stepped up. It’s nice to see. I think the freshmen are acclimating well.” Lin said.
The group rehearses from 6:30 to 8:20 on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and have string sectional 7:00 to 7:50. Since performing at the Nobel Conference, the group has made a great deal of progress towards their performance.
“They’re more aware of each other. I think musically they know me better too.” Lin said.
Although there are fewer members in the orchestra this year, the student musicians involved in GSO are still making an incredible musical experience for both the students and their audience.
“We put in the work and effort into difficult pieces and it shows when we perform which is one of the most rewarding experience.” Sophomore second violin player, Taryn Jansen said.
Not only is the orchestra making strides in their playing, but students are also learning more about each other and who they are as a group of musicians. “It’s nice to see the camaraderie and see them enjoy each others company.” Lin said. Rather than just being a group of musicians who come together to perform art, a sense of community is becoming established within the group.
The Gustavus Symphony Orchestra will be playing three highly regarded pieces at their concert. The pieces included in the program are: Rosamunde: Overture, D. 644 Schubert (1797-1828), Concerto no.2 for Horn and Orchestra in Eb Major, K. 417 Mozart (1756-1791), and Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120 Schumann (1810-1856).
Sophomore horn player Haley Kaul, who has been a member of GSO since last fall, is especially excited for the Mozart piece. Kaul’s private lesson teacher, Melissa Morey will be performing the solo horn part for Concerto No. 2 for Horn and Orchestra in Eb Major, K. 417 Mozart (1756-1791). The orchestra has played multiple concertos in the past, but this is their first time performing a horn concerto. Morey is the private horn lesson teacher here at Gustavus, in addition to being a professional horn player and singer.
“It’s great to hear her play. She’s great at what she does.” Kaul said.
This Friday’s concert is the second performance for the Gustavus Symphony Orchestra this year. Those who attend the concert are sure to be engaged in and with the music. Each of the three pieces offers something different to the program, and audience members have the ability to choose to listen closely to specific aspects of each piece, helping them to gain a better understanding of the music.
“During the concert, I would put emphasis on listening for the solo lines that move throughout the symphony. Sometimes it appears in a whole section and other times, a single musician. It’s very intriguing to trace the progression of the melodies and themes as it gives some insight into the composer’s mind.” Jansen said.
Dr. Lin and members of the orchestra are looking forward to performing for the Gustavus community. “I think anyone who want’s to hear a range of orchestra music will enjoy the concert. Each piece is very different, and it’s enjoyable to listen to.” Kaul said. Anyone who enjoys classical music, a variety of music, or has a general appreciation for music is encouraged to attend.