Dear Sinfonia Members and Families,
Thanks for a great kickoff rehearsal to our final program of the year, “Diverse Characters.” We will discover that the unique diversity of each composer's writing still carries familiar themes of musical character and expression.
Use this time both mentally and physically to take on the new musical challenges to build your skills in note reading, rhythm, and musical performance. With auditions around the corner, use this opportunity to fine-tune your musical skills.
If you missed our first rehearsal, request a copy of your part through the MYSO office. They will work with you to get your music to you. It is important to get a head start on the selections before attending our next rehearsal.
Spring Concert Cycle Rehearsals and Performances:
Have a great Spring Break! Sinfonia will resume rehearsals on Tuesday, April 6, and Thursday, April 8.
Lots of details!
In rehearsal, we will explore and experiment with creative ideas to present our new music. I have used the term “fluid” many times this week to best describe the flexibility and open-minded approach we need, both individually and as an ensemble. Let’s start with building our core understanding of the selections and allow the refinement to flow to our performance presentation. We will start slow with reasonable tempos, then eventually increase them as we get better at it. Let’s make it fun!
Repertoire & Recordings:
Click here for recording links to the selections below.
It’s all about learning. As important as it is to physically practice your music and be ready for rehearsal, listening to the music and researching the composer (mental practice) is equally important. Balance your time. Creatively teach yourself. Be curious to learn something new! Please note the number of listening/viewing links for the selections. Mix it up, and learn from the different artful presentations.
Franz Benda (1709-1786), Bohemian violinist/composer, Sinfonia in C
Focus on the 1st movement, Allegro (quarter note 80-90). Refine bowing articulations and rhythms.
Led Zeppelin (English rock ensemble formed in 1968), Stairway To Heaven
Moderate/slow tempo throughout. Refine bowing articulations and rhythms. M. 1-41 we will experiment with layering/adding voices/players (solo cello-quartet-sm ensemble-tutti). M. 127-132 violin solo/1st violin play 2nd violin part.
Chick Corea (1941-2021), Spain
Make time to listen/view the following link to learn about Chick Corea, the man and his music, “In The Mind of a Master.” No, it’s not about the selection Spain, but there are many musical and life lessons to be learned. It’s an hour long and well worth multiple listenings, as a whole or in parts. Yes, this features Chick Corea, a jazz pianist and composer, but he's on par with all the great composers and musicians of history (Correa was classically trained). Investigate the messages you can use to apply/inspire yourself to build your musicianship and knowledge.
Slow opening tempo in 4/4 (quarter note 60-70) M1-25. Moderate, energetic tempo in 2 (half note 80-90) m. 25 to end. Violin solo m. 1-25. Bass play cello part m. 1-25. Refine bowing articulations and rhythms. A MYSO jazz ensemble will join us at a future date.
Concerto Competition Winner Performances
Concerto Competition winner performances by Kate Flint - Telemann Viola Concerto (Tuesday) and Madison Koo - Bach Violin Concerto (Thursday) will be accompanied by a small string ensemble. We use a small ensemble to appropriately balance the sound and character of the solo. Invited students will rehearse 4:00-4:30 pm.
Audition Reminder:
We are Sinfonia!
Mr. Rindt
