Our 87th Season has begun! ESYO’s first online rehearsals were met with wonderful enthusiasm from conductors and students alike. Conductor Chris Noel created an online musical experience appropriately suited for the talented members of the Junior Orchestra. Professional coaches worked with smaller groups sharing their musical knowledge with students. The fine youth musicians quickly adapted to the online platform, readily performed for each other, and inspired us all with their playing. And it was FUN!
FALL AUDITIONS AVAILABLE: If you are interested in auditioning for the orchestra, please call 541-484-0473. You can also email the registrar at joregistrar@esyorchestras.org.
[Families, PLEASE continue to check your spam folders for emails from ESYO. If you have any questions, please contact your registrar below.]
Welcome to Junior Orchestra! This season will look different than in the past, with online rehearsals in the fall to ensure everyone’s safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the unusual circumstances, we have a unique and valuable musical experience waiting for you!
Your conductor, Christopher Noel, is glad you are a part of this fine orchestra. He has designed a program of online rehearsals and performances, with rehearsals separated into three interactive sessions each Monday night from 6:30-8:30pm. Students will be divided into sectionals and mixed-ensembles during the first two sessions, working with professional coaches and/or the conductor. These will take the form of studio classes or “group” lessons, playing one at a time for each other, listening or playing along using earbuds, and learning the other sections and parts of the piece they are working on. They will work on music for the whole orchestra, as well as individual sectional pieces. This will provide them with more individualized and instrument-specific instruction, as well as opportunities to learn how each part works together within the orchestra.
During the third breakout session, we will have space for visiting artists, master classes, workshops, auditioning, composer and music history and other music education extras. There will also continue to be outreach opportunities for sharing video performances throughout the community. We’ll teach students recording tips and techniques, and work toward a virtual December concert that will showcase their accomplishments and give them something they can be proud of. Our goal is to give them more individualized instruction for their instrument or section, while still maintaining the community of the orchestra. It all adds up to an exciting, educational, and rewarding season of music-making!
We will follow the state and local health guidelines, and return to in-person ensembles when it is safe for all. We’re looking forward to our 87th season with you!
JUNIOR ORCHESTRA represents most young musicians’ first experience playing in a full symphony orchestra. Students learn what it’s like to be surrounded by the sounds of instruments from all sections: strings, winds, brass, and percussion. It’s the perfect training ground for growing as a musician and preparing for Youth Symphony.
Christopher Noel is the conductor of ESYO’s Junior Orchestra. Chris is an enthusiastic and passionate conductor and musician, and it shines through as he works with the musicians of the orchestra. His love for music, and for sharing it with young people, is easily seen as he rehearses with humor and cheer – all the while enabling students to be their best. He chooses a variety of music to both challenge and delight!
Junior Orchestra (JO) rehearsals are held Monday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. They will be held online beginning Sept. 28th, and we will resume in-person rehearsals as soon as it is safe to do so and schools are open. The JO season includes up to 30 rehearsals, sectional coaching, several education and outreach concerts, and two formal concerts in December and May. The program fee for JO is $430 for the year, with several payment options and scholarships available.
Reporting Absences: Your registrar is Janna Hudson – all absences and tardies must be reported by a parent or guardian by calling or texting Janna at 541-501-7279. Students are expected to arrive at rehearsal 10-15 minutes early so they are ready to begin at 6:30 sharp. One week notice is required for absences.
Be sure to check the google calendar below for rehearsal and concert updates!
MUSICAL CHAIR SPONSORSHIP: If you’d like to sponsor your musician (or know someone who would!) please click HERE! The sponsor’s name will appear under the student’s name in the program, just like the professionals. It’s a great way for family members and friends to show their support!
CONGRATULATIONS JUNIOR ORCHESTRA for your wonderful performances during ESYO’s 85th Season!
