Orchestra and Band inside of school in FIS (my previous school) Both activities happend between the grades 9 and 10
Supervisors: Jan Detlaff for Band and Julie Borsodi for Orchestra
I was a member of the School String Orchestra in Frankfurt International School for 9 years and the School Band for 4 years. In Orchestra, I played the Violin and for Band, I played the Clarinet. The string Orchestra, we had practice every Tuesdays for an hour after school and we had concerts twice a year in which we performed to teachers and local citizens near the Schlosskirche, which was located in Bad Homburg. Band had a very similar structure to Orchestra however, we had practices more often because we were a larger group with many different kinds of instruments, such as the Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Trumpet, Drums and Synthesizers. My purpose for participating in both of these instrumental groups was to develop my skill of playing well known songs using musical instruments. Orchestra was lead by Julie Borsodi and we practiced various songs, some very famous classical pieces and other recent theme songs, such as Pirates of the Caribbean. We had an hour practice once a week and before a concert, we would specifically focus on the songs which were going to be performed on stage. However, at the periods where we still had time for the next concert, we would play multiple and songs from a variety of range to broaden our choice of music to perform. On the other hand, for Band had regular meeting during lunch hours and classes which was in our schedules. In Band, we usually practiced quite well known songs, such as the Final Count Down. We had few surprise tests which were arranged to test all the students whether they were practicing the songs regularly. Showing perseverance and commitment was one of the learning outcomes which was related to both activities. It was important for me to attend all practices and meetings for both of these instrumental groups because sitting on stage on performing in front of a audience meant that regular practice was essential. I felt the responsibility to clearly show my engament because I was a member in both activities and I wanted to make all concerts and performances successful to its fullest extent. If I were to repeat both activities again, I would make the difference of performing the pieces I learned at school in front of audiences outside my school community. I would perform in front of different audiences because I have realised how playing an instrument as a break in between homework and assignments can help to increase concentration as well as the entertainment behind music. I would also make this change next time because I think by performing in front of others, it can increase self confidence which can be applied throughout life, such as in school, the task of presenting something to the class.
Mr. Dettlaff Confirmation Letter
