212 Orchestra

As I think about this year and the many hurdles we faced that turned into triumphs, I can truly say that I am blessed to work with so many wonderful students and families. To my 8th grade students, I have loved teaching you these past three years and you will definitely be missed. You have such great dedication, passion, drive, and knowledge about music's greatest purpose; expression. You have provided outstanding leadership and set the bar high for the classes in the future. We have had so many good times and we have also had those times when we were like oil and vinegar. I could not be more proud to send you all to high school knowing that you are mature musicians but also mature people. Please keeep in touch and know that I love you very much.

To my 7th grade students, talk a lot because as 8th grade students the talking in orchestra STOPS!!!! This class is very special to me and I truly feel like we are a family because we yell, scream, laugh, but most importantly we ROCK HARD together. You guys have never let me down and I cannot wait to make great music with you next year. For many of you this has been a hard year because 7th grade Orchestra demands that you learn a lot of new techniques quickly. You guys took the challenge and kept asking for more......THAT MAKES ME HAPPY!!!! I have many things in store for you all next year including an 8th grade trip possibly and more exciting songs. Have a great summer and try to touch your instrument a few times so that you are not too rusty in the fall. Know that I love each one of you and orchestra would not be the same without you.

To my 6th grade students, YOU GUYS ROCK!!! I am so proud of the progress you made this year. We are so far ahead and we will keep going because WE CANNOT BE STOPPED! I cannot wait until 7th grade when we start playing more challenging but "cooler" music. This class has so much potential both in your playing and social abilities. I have so many things that I want to do with this class because you guys are always prepared no matter the task. 7th grade will be different from 6th grade and I will have much higher expectations. We will go to festival, play for the community, and many of you will have the opportunity to perform with the Advanced Ensemble in Orlando. Remember that Orchestra at Awtrey is about developing solid technique and a passion for communicating emotion to the audience. 7th grade will be amazing so enjoy the summer because we have much to do in the fall......ON YOUR MARK GET SET......WE WILL ROCK YOUR BOW OFF

To all of the parents, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!! I love my job and you have made my job easier by not only volunteering but also supporting your child in orchestra. My hope is that all orchestra students will leave with an appreciation for music along with a love of their instrument. I had a lot of goals this year (not all of them were achieved) and we did a lot as an orchestra program this year. Your support is the only way to keep this program alive and it makes my job easier knowing that you are available to assist.

If anyone has any comments or suggestions for next year, please email me. (I am not getting rid of Smart Music but there will be less assignments mandatory for next year.)