In each of the Wakuwaku concerts, there is a period where we introduce the instruments of the orchestra. Each section, or instrument, has the opportunity to play about 45 seconds of something to show the kids what the instrument sounds like. And this can be different (or the same) for each concert. It's a really enjoyable part of the concert, because we get to hear the creativity and talent of our compatriots and it's a chance for us to do whatever we want. Today, the cello section played Bach in the morning, and Cee Lo Green in the afternoon. Other selections from the various member of the orchestra have included (but are certainly not limited to) Amazing Grace, If I Were a Rich Man, O Danny Boy, second bassoon excerpts specially arranged for audition prep, A Whole New World, video game arrangements, It's Friday (that happened on Friday) and the tubist's perennial We Will Rock You, complete with a new middle section for every concert and a sincerely satirical series of kisses to the entire hall of 13-year-olds.
It's fun to hear what people come up with and it's really fun to hear how a song can traverse time and place and take on new meaning in a new context. A trans-Atlantic slave ship captain's song has made it to Japan. A youtube pop song virtuosically performed by two trumpet players. A Disney hit from the horn section. I always look forward to this part of the concert. It's a chance for the orchestra members to take something into their own hands, sometimes with great grace and beauty, and sometimes with great humor. All for the sake of youth, well, and maybe a bit for ourselves.
No comments:
Post a Comment