The first playing test (which also determines chair placement for our Oct. 2 concert) was assigned last week, and will be due soon (9/4 for Chamber, 9/9 for Philharmonic, and 9/11 for Symphony). Once submitted, I review all of them, grade them with a rubric, then return my scores and comments to the students so they can apply suggestions to focus practice and make improvements/corrections prior to the concert. Keep reading for other events and reminders:
Pit Orchestra:
MNHS 2025 musical is Addams Family, the Musical. Students who play violin, cello, bass, and piano have the opportunity to audition for a spot in the pit orchestra; auditions are due to Mr. Ben Samson (pit orchestra director) by Friday, Sept. 5. Questions? Email Mr. Samson at btsamson@mpsomaha.org.
Music Major For A Day!
All students in grades 11-12 are invited to UNO’s Music Major For A Day event on Monday, Oct. 13. Parents/Guardians must register their students using this link. Note: If you/your child decides to attend, parent/guardian is responsible for calling the student out for a college visit and arranging transportation to and from the event.
University of South Dakota (USD) will also hold a Music Major for a Day event on Sept. 19. Registration (via this link) is due by Sept. 17.
Did you know?
Several Nebraska colleges and universities have auditions coming up! If your child is a current senior, and would like to continue playing their orchestra instrument in college, make sure to check out the colleges’ music programs when you visit! Ask to meet with music faculty (string professors and/or orchestra director) about audition procedures, repertoire requirements, availability of instruments, music major and non-major opportunities to perform, and if any scholarships are available for college students involved in music.
If you have questions or need further information, contact me at djmartin@mpsomaha.org