Tate String Orchestra Receives High Marks At National Orchestra Festival

April 4, 2018

The Tate High School String Orchestra recently received high marks in the annual National Orchestra Festival in Atlanta.

“This was a significant step for us and something I always wanted to do” said Catherine McConnell, the Tate High Orchestra director.  “So, we were ecstatic when we found out that we qualified, and started practicing hard and raising funds right away.”

The Tate orchestra also worked with members of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, receiving professional feedback during sectional rehearsals throughout the year.

The orchestra prepared a program of seven pieces and performed for an panel of three nationally-renowned and esteemed orchestra adjudicators.  The judges commented on the orchestra’s high level of preparation and energy, awarding both Excellent and Superior ratings.

While at the National Orchestra Festival, the orchestra students were able to attend a variety of professional sessions focusing on aspects of string performance and education, and also see another top orchestra perform.  Following Tate’s concert performance, the orchestra was able to participate in a 45-minute clinic led by a leading orchestra professor.

“It gave me a brand new perspective of our orchestra.  Before we went, I thought it would be just local orchestras from around our region,” said senior concert master Caroline Bruns. “I found out when we arrived that we would be observing an orchestra from Honolulu perform.  This made me realize that we’re not just a little orchestra from Florida, but one that is good enough to perform at the same festival as those from across the country.  My favorite part was seeing people from all over the United States who love orchestra as much as I do.”

“We were blessed with an amazing opportunity,” said Tate freshman Micheala Bragg.  “From that opportunity grew unity and an experience unlike any other.  I will cherish it always.”

The Tate orchestra will perform May 7 at 7 p.m. during the Ransom Middle and Tate String Pops concert in the auditorium at Washington High School. Admission is free.

Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.

Comments

One Response to “Tate String Orchestra Receives High Marks At National Orchestra Festival”

  1. My2Cents on April 5th, 2018 9:02 am

    That is AMAZING! Congratulations!

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under FEATURE TOP STORY, Features, News