Mission Statement

To introduce high school age instrumental students to orchestral music that is traditionally performed by professional orchestras in a fun and educational environment.

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Who can belong?

Any high school string player is eligible to enroll for this string orchestra experience. September 11-13, 2009 is the date for the annual Camp Comeca Retreat.

 

Is there a fee?

Each activity will have a separate fee.

 

Is this a high quality group?

Yes!! This orchestra has been in existance for 30+ years. During these years, the baton has changed hands only once. This stability is one reason for the success of the group. In the spring of 2000, the symphony traveled to Denver to compete in the Music in the Parks Festival. One of the judges commented that this was one of the finest high school ensembles he had ever heard. The orchestra received 199 points out of 200 points and was awarded a superior rating, Judges' choice for the Outstanding Ensemble and received two awards for outstanding soloists.

 

Who is the conductor?

Barry Ford received his Bachelor of Music in Education degree from Northwestern University and his Master of Music degree from the University of Missouri - Columbia. He currently teaches music appreciation, composition and theory and also directs Jazz II, Hockey Band and the Trumpet Ensemble.

Before joining the faculty at the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 2004, Ford served as Professor of Trumpet at the State University of Pará and the Carlos Gomes Conservatory, as well as conductor of the Orquestra Sinfônica do Theatro da Paz and the Amazônia Jazz Band in Belém, Brazil.