The Pride of Herndon will be well-represented when the Northeast Regional Orchestra takes the stage in November. James Adams, Noah McKee, Jacob Reeves, Emma Rood and Aimee Toner claimed spots in this regional ensemble, comprising students from Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria and surrounding private schools.
Rood, a sophomore, and Toner, a senior, will be leading their sections, obtaining the first chair position in harp and flute respectively. For Toner, this is her second year as principal.
“I am very excited about this year's repertoire! All wind players already had to learn the first few pages of Enesco's Romanian Rhapsody No. 1, which will be the first piece that we are playing,” said Toner.
Senior Jacob Reeves will be participating for the third year in a row after receiving a third place ranking in percussion.
“SRO is such an awesome opportunity. It gives so many people a chance to play some of the most famous works! Getting to play with a full orchestra is always such a cool and different feeling…I am excited to see what we can accomplish!” said Reeves.
Sophomore James Adams, received a fourth place ranking and will be part of the orchestra for the first time. String bassist sophomore Noah McKee also garnered a spot.
The students participated in a blind audition after preparing scales and orchestral excerpts. Their program in November will include a slight departure from some previous years in the length and number of pieces.
“The students at Herndon continue to amaze me year after year,” said Herndon High School’s band director Kathleen Jacoby.
“Having three sophomores make the ensemble impressive in itself, but also having two students place at the top for two years in a row is a true testament to their dedication and talent. The whole music faculty at HHS is really proud of what these kids have achieved,” said Jacoby.
The rehearsals and concert will be held at W.T. Woodson High School in Fairfax on Nov. 12-14, with Daniel Myssyk from VCU conducting. The ensemble will also play “Joyeuse Marche” by Chabrier, “Valse Triste” by Sibelius, and the “Three-Cornered Hat” by deFalla.
“All in all, I am honored to play such fantastic repertoire in such a high level orchestra with many of my friends,” said Toner.