Orchestra seniors are making the most of their last 21 days by working hard to practice music for their spring concert. There are two different ensembles–string orchestra and full orchestra.

String orchestra is comprised of students playing string instruments: violin, viola, cello, or string bass. Full orchestra, or symphonic orchestra, is made up not only of string instruments but wind instruments and percussion as well. Mr. Damon Dye teaches both ensembles and will be conducting them in their concert on Thursday, May 3 at 7 p.m. The symphonic band and freshman band (conducted and taught by Mr. Kevin Lloyd) will also be performing.

The seniors are excited for their performance at the concert, especially since for some of them it will be their last at Linganore. Other will be playing in the jazz and percussion concert the week following the band and orchestra concert.

“I’ve loved playing my instrument and hearing the whole ensemble play so many beautiful pieces during the four years I’ve been here,” said senior Ronin Tecle, who plays the violin. Tecle will be attending Salisbury University in the fall and will be double majoring in European history and law enforcement.

Several of the orchestra students will be majoring or minoring in music as well, inspired by their music education at LHS. Senior Allie Hudson, who plays bass clarinet, will be attending Gettysburg College and minoring in music. She is majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology and is considered an “unofficial” member of the orchestra because she is not enrolled in the class, but comes to practice on the days she does not have English 101. 

Other orchestra students who are graduating are Alanah Follis (viola), Lily Tate (violin), Carolyn Payne (violin), Kayli Wenttang (cello), Alexander Tran (violin), and Josh Watson (string bass).

Overall, the seniors are excited to be graduating, but will miss many parts of Linganore, especially the music program. They hope to carry their memories with them through college and the rest of their life.

Wish them luck as they strike their final chords of high school!