Welcome to the Harmony Chamber Orchestra! It’s been a joy for me to get to work with you all these past two weeks, and I think we’re off to a great start. I hope that the pace of rehearsals and the amount of new material to learn does not overwhelm our newest musicians.

It is important for every member of the orchestra to understand that in order for this ensemble to reach it’s musical potential, EVERY member needs to be fully prepared for EVERY rehearsal. That means that everyone in the orchestra needs to establish her/his own consistent practice schedule during the week. Everyone needs to be practicing most days. There will be some days when you do not have as much time available as other days, and that is totally understandable. I would like to encourage you all to try the 21-Day Practice Challenge that I discussed on the first day of rehearsals.  Establishing solid positive practice habits early in the year will serve you well as the year progresses, and the amount of repertoire continues to increase.

Please remember to read through the participation agreement that went home with you last week, and return your signed form, (you and your parents need to read and sign this), next Monday, September 26. As a valued musician in this ensemble, I expect all of you to understand the requirements and responsibilities that come with membership.

As I mentioned during rehearsals, I am happy to help anyone work on their music, either at 2:00 Mondays or Wednesdays, or at 6:ooPM, when I have finished teaching classes. All I ask is that you let me know you would like help, ahead of time. You may email Ms. Cheryl with this request if that is convenient for you, or just speak to me after class.

Please try to arrive at rehearsals a few minutes early, in order to warm up and get settled so that we can BEGIN rehearsals promptly at 3:00. Every minute is valuable, and when even one student arrives late, the entire ensemble has lost concentration and important rehearsal minutes.

I’m looking forward to a fabulous year working with all of you. Please communicate any concerns, questions or comments before they become problems!

Very sincerely, Ms. Sue