On Nov. 14 at 7:00 p.m., the Alton High School orchestras debuted their Fall concert, directed by Orchestra Director Laura Plummer, for all in the community in the high school auditorium.
The concert consisted of the Chamber Strings, Concert Orchestra and Symphonic Orchestra. Chamber Strings took the stage first with an uplifting piece entitled “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers.” Plummer took a moment after the performance to announce that the Chamber Strings would be performing at Post Commons on Alby St. on Sat, Dec. 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Following them was the Concert Orchestra playing “Rush” and “The Night of the Shores,” carrying a much more dramatic tone. Swiftly following the performance, seniors from each music ensemble walked the stage to take a bow. The seniors honored were Mia Lavite, Marissa Lewis, Juliana Stevenson, Atlas Moore, Ethan Fox, Khas Spitz, Lucas Frye, Jared Taul, Kaitlyn Alexander and Victoria Brown.
Symphonic Orchestra was next to perform and started their set with an engaging opening and song titled “Concerto Grosso Movement 1 Allegro.” Following this song, winds and brass instruments joined the orchestra on stage for “Carmen Suite No. 1.” The song rose drastically and fell dramatically, bringing life to every instrument on stage.
“I feel like all our hard work really paid off,” junior brass player, Maddie Schrumph said.
Finally, a grand finale featuring all the music companies played the closing number of “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24”. The audience roared for the orchestra following their last performance. “They improve with every performance,” senior, Bella Russell said.
Plummer said she was extremely proud of all those in the concert, especially those in the ensemble. Plummer has been directing orchestra at the high school for 28 years.
The annual ABOB Craft Fair was announced at the concert which raises money for orchestra and band groups in the district. The fair will take place at the high school on Dec. 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Dec. 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.