— from Karen Blinn for Islands Sinfonia ––
Celebrating the start of its 33rd season of making musical memories for all ages, the Island Sinfonia Board and current members extend an open invitation to new and returning musicians for the first of the season’s rehearsals to be held September 23 on Orcas Island.
“Sinfonia is a warm, welcoming, group of people with a wide range of experience and skill level. It’s a fun way to meet new people and learn new music. You don’t have to be perfect, just come have fun learning with us,” said Noah Atchley, concertmaster.
The group performs a wide variety of music, ranging from classical favorites to tunes from musicals and operas.
The first rehearsal of the season will be held from 12 PM – 2:30 PM on Saturday, September 23 on Orcas Island in the Orcas School Band Room. The Sinfonia is led by director Jim Shaffer-Bauck, also serving as timpanist. Noah Atchley, concertmaster from Friday Harbor, will also conduct during the season.
Public concerts will be held on each of the San Juan Islands – Shaw, Lopez, San Juan, and Orcas during the spring of 2018. Sinfonia has musicians from all these islands that regularly attend rehearsals. Please let Karen know if you would like to carpool, and our musicians will gladly help bring you to rehearsals and concerts.
“The Island Sinfonia concert was special addition to our trip to the islands. The talent and passion for the arts is very evident, and I was delighted to experience what the Sinfonia added to what I’d already experienced during our visit,” one out of town visitor shared with a performer.
Violin, viola, cello, wind, and brass instrumentalists, including student musicians, are encouraged to join the Sinfonia.
Sinfonia encourage student musicians to join, and are especially looking to increase our number of string players. Sinfonia welcomes any wind, brass, percussion (or pianists!) to join our ranks.
“We look forward to bringing new musicians into the Island Sinfonia family. Even if it’s been a while since you played, or you’re a student just getting started, there’s a place for you here with us. We learn and grow as a musical family, sharing our love of music with our community and its visitors,” said Jim Shaffer-Bauck.
For more information, contact: Karen Blinn via text at 360-298-2434 or email at gblinn@rockisland.com.
