It has sounded a lot like Christmas in the Nolan Ryan JH Orchestra room since early November as classes learned and then perfected holiday-themed pieces in preparation for their upcoming Winter Concert.
The concert will include classics "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," and "Carol of the Bells" alongside other festive numbers that keep with the winter theme.
NRJH's orchestra program teaches students how to read music and the foundational skills for playing the violin, viola, cello, or double bass. Beyond learning how to play an instrument, the class weaves together concepts from core subjects in a musical context, Director Ricky Lethridge said.
"Orchestra offers students the chance to refine their motor skills, train their ears to identify pitches, teaches ambidextrous skills to perform, and provides an opportunity for students to showcase their talents," he said. "Reading music is similar to solving algebraic equations. We discuss music history to understand composers and their works, and learn terms in different languages, like French and Italian. Even the physical aspect of performing with a stringed instrument teaches physics and science."
Orchestra lovers can watch all of these skills come together at 7 p.m. on Friday, December 12 in the Longhorn Cafeteria.