Clarkston HS Orchestra Winter 2024

Clarkston HS Orchestra Winter 2024
1. Entrance of the Honored Guests by Ray A. Kuutti - inspired by royal fanfares, this piece symbolizes the entrance of the Knights of the Sunken Cathedral of Ys: Sir Hamish de Kirkland and Dame Ramera de Arc.
2. Forgotten Snow by Unknown performed by Silver Strings - I came across the basis of this as a midi file during the early days of midi music. There was no title or composer. I found it hauntingly beautiful and expanded it for string orchestra.
3. Once Upon a December from "Anastasia" by Stephan Flaherty - a favorite of ours from a fun movie. We added flute to highlight the melody and the loneliness of the lost princess.
4. Golden Leaves of Winter by Ray A. Kuutti - this piece is inspired by a painting of a swirl of golden leaves forming one great leaf by Olga Dorenko. The music is intended to represent the swirling of the leaves creating a beautiful pattern. There is some debate if this better represents Winter or Fall.
5. Hummel Concertante by Johann Hummel - a favorite of mine from when my dad was directing community orchestras and now a favorite of my students. This ties nicely with the royal theme introduced earlier with the Entrance of the Honored Guests. Perhaps a ceremony bestowing an award.
Our orchestra ranges from beginners to veterans of many concerts. A few have played four years or more but most have only played a couple of years or less. I am very pleased with their dedication and progress.