Dear Sinfonia Members and Families,

Great rehearsals last week. Both ensembles did a wonderful job. I was impressed with your reading and performing skills. As always, ask questions in rehearsal if you need something clarified.

Homework Assignment: As mentioned in rehearsal, focus on the Adagio, the 3rd movement of the Concerto Grosso. Last week, we were reminded of the difficulty of playing slower tempo movements and the need to count. Use this opportunity to develop and refine your awareness of rhythm and the need to count in your home preparation as well as in our ensemble rehearsals.

Yes, it is very good practice to learn both the solo and accompaniment parts of the Concerto Grosso (violin and cello). We are now going to merge the solo and accompaniment parts together in rehearsal. To achieve balance, the first 6 players in the 1st violin, 2nd violin, and cello sections should prepare the solo parts for rehearsal. This will be a journey to find the right balance for each ensemble and work to clarify our needs in rehearsal.   

Again, plan ahead on training to improve your musical performing skill. Regular practice and attention to musical details will pay off.

Stay well!

Mr. Rindt
Concerto Competition

For those who are playing for our Concerto Competition on Saturday, be sure to play with confidence in order to show your best musical skills!
Winter Concert Cycle Repertoire/Recording Links

To learn and grow as a developing musician, listening and performance viewing are as important as physically practicing your instrument. Think of it as a visualization shortcut for teaching your brain while you are physically training your body in your practice routine: “Mind and Body.” Listening and practicing are both essential training tools you should use in your journey to become productive musicians. Be sure to make our recordings a regular component of your prep work.

Handel, Concerto Grosso in G Major, Op. 6, No. 1 (all movements)


  • Mvt. 1, 4/4, A tempo giusto, quarter note = 84
  • Mvt. 2, 4/4, Allegro, quarter note = 120
  • Mvt. 3, 3/4, Adagio, quarter note = 60
  • Mvt. 4, 4/4, Allegro, quarter note = 130
  • Mvt. 5, 6/8, in 2, Allegro, dotted quarter note = 76
Fun Facts
Beethoven's Tribute
Praise doesn't come much higher than from Ludwig Van Beethoven, who said of Handel's works: "Go to him to learn how to achieve great effects, by such simple means."
Grainger/Dackow, Mock Morris


  • 2/2, At fast jog, half note = 104
Fun Facts
Experimental Composition
A composer and pianist known for deviating from standard ways of making music, Percy Grainger involved experimental techniques in his compositions. He was instrumental in reviving British folk music and was connected to it for all his life. 
Mahler/Gruselle, Adagietto from Symphony No. 5


  • 4/4, Very slow, quarter note = 58
Fun Facts
An Early Start
The Austrian composer discovered a piano in his grandmother's attic when he was six years old. Just four years later, he gave his first public performance.
Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra | myso.org