Written by Hannah Skeene
For most students, transitioning from middle to high school is a stimulating experience. Many eagerly anticipate the elevated social aspect, while others may just be looking forward to moving one step closer to their future goals. Regardless of what makes high school special, students are sure to choose electives that complement their personalized interests. With a wide range of courses available, selecting the proper classes is a breeze.
While most students are aware of the vast array of electives our school offers, some garner more popularity than others, but it goes without saying that popularity does not always translate to superiority. For music-loving students who are skilled in string instruments or just looking to learn something new, orchestra is a great course. While mildly unpopular, it offers unique learning experiences and engaging after-school commitments.
Some people may wonder, why orchestra and not band? Both band and orchestra are music classes, but band focuses on wind and percussion instruments, while orchestra focuses on string instruments. Because the choice of string instruments is limited, class sizes are notably smaller, allowing for an air of camaraderie.
Students in orchestra work hard each day to grow their skills thus, it would be quite an injustice to see those skills go without exhibition. Needless to say, concerts are a crucial aspect of the class. Family and friends are encouraged to attend and experience the music first-hand. I attended the Christmas concert and was surprised by the level of expertise displayed. The music was captivating, and the atmosphere was tranquil. Afterward, I interviewed a friend of mine, Olivia Thirion, a bass player in our school’s orchestra. She revealed to me that her favorite part of the class is getting to learn with friends and that the environment is fun. When I asked her if she would recommend it to other students, she said, “Yes; orchestra makes it easy to make new friends.”
George Jenkins High School has a diverse pool of students, hailing from countless origins. Within this mixing pot of cultures, there are sure to be shared interests. Some students may be passionate about technology, while others become animated when discussing culinary arts. Whatever your interests are, choosing from the vast selection of classes available is somewhat of an adventure, with obscure treasures concealed along the way. And after taking a closer look, the orchestra might just be one of these hidden gems.
