Sage Hill’s instrumental music program presented its fall concert, “Musical Portraits,” showcasing performances by the Wind Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, and String Orchestra on Nov.15.
The concert featured diverse pieces across various genres, including adaptations of folk music from Cajun and Peruvian cultures, classic instrumental works, and orchestral suites inspired by Baroque and Renaissance period music.
“This concert exposed me to music I would not have thought to play otherwise,” Sophomore violinist Maxwell Lee said. While he typically practices Classical pieces, the String Ensemble allows Maxwell to experiment with works from different genres and musical periods.
Act I of the show spotlighted the Wind Ensemble and included a performance of Movements 1 and 2 from Cajun Folk Songs, highlighting Cajun folk song culture in a composition by Frank Ticheli. In Act II, the Guitar Ensemble performed Albatross, an instrumental piece by rock band Fleetwood Mac that topped the UK Singles chart in 1969. The String Orchestra opened Act III with a string arrangement of lute pieces by various composers, ending the concert on a serene note with a performance of All The Things, by Brian Balmages.
Senior pianist Chloe Kwon highlighted her appreciation for the wide scope of musical arrangements.
“I really liked being a part of a huge group and seeing how the different contrasts in colors came together in harmony,” Chloe said.
This year’s orchestra structure posed an additional challenge for musicians, as the program was divided into two blocks. The orchestra had to use time during conferences, X Block, and after school to rehearse as a whole ensemble. Despite the logistical hurdles, the instrumental groups took advantage of their limited time to deliver a polished performance. String ensemble senior and concertmaster Carl Jiang credited the orchestra’s success to the dedication of its members.
“I think we did amazing,” Carl said. “Everyone took responsibility, and we sounded like one.” Sophomore violinist Chelsea Chen highlighted how each member’s responsibilities made for a more enjoyable concert and stated, “It was a big lesson on the importance of teamwork, and just how much progress can be made from hard work.”
Despite the seemingly daunting prospect of playing in front of a large live audience, the musicians expressed satisfaction with their performance and the excitement the showcase brought.
Sophomore guitarist Aarya Shah added that being immersed in the music allowed him to focus on staying grounded and connecting with the piece to overcome any nerves.
“If you just feel the pulse of the music it’s going to be good,” Aarya said.
Carl is hopeful as the instrumental program prepares for its Winter and Spring concerts in the future. “The experience was a lot more fun and the players made my job a lot easier. I am thankful for them and I believe we can become better and better.”
