As the Plant Orchestra Chamber and Philharmonic students raise their bows when director Mr. Bossert lifts his arms, a moment of pride and smiles as dreams are being fulfilled is shared amongst the young musicians onstage at Symphony Hall.
The Plant High School Orchestra made its Boston Symphony Hall debut on Sunday, March 29. A devoted, talented group of students from both the Chamber and Philharmonic Orchestras performed a collection of famous music pieces by composers such as Chadwick and Mendelssohn.
The trip only lasted 4 days, but was filled with countless memories and experiences that will not be soon forgotten.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
The students toured a variety of Boston landmarks, including Fenway Park, Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, Boston Common, Massachusetts State House and Paul Revere’s House.
The students also attended a clinic with Music Director of the Glens Falls Symphony and Director Emeritus of Wind Ensembles at New England Conservatory, Charles Peltz, refining their performance.
After their performance, the group went on a dinner cruise, sailing around the captivating Boston harbor.
“My favorite memory from the trip was definitely the performance, but also our dinner cruise after, it was nice to be able to bond with all of the new members of Orchestra this year, and we’re looking forward to our next season,” said Sammy Iglesias (11).
THE PERFORMANCE
Following two days of sightseeing, the orchestra performed at Boston Symphony Hall on Sunday, culminating a year of practices, performances and hard work.
“It was honestly magical because the sound was just unlike anything I’d ever heard in my life. And I loved looking out and seeing all the friends and family in the audience,” said Megan Hageman (12). Hageman is a member of the Chamber orchestra, which played a piece featuring a prominent solo played by Concertmaster Charlie Nash (12) before being joined by the Philharmonic orchestra.
“It was so amazing,” said Nash. “The hall was beautiful, and I got to walk out because I was [the] Concertmaster, and everyone clapped for me. It was so fun. My solo was really good, and I had just a great time with my friends in Boston.”
“It was really cool, probably like the best experience of my life,” said Iglesias. “I just felt so honored to be on the same stage as Renee Fleming. I’ve had a dream to play in Boston for a while. Earlier this year, I was able to play at Jordan Hall. So it was really exciting to be able to go back to Boston, continue my musical journey there. I was also able to see a lot of friends from around the country at the competition, and we got to hear collegiate orchestras such as the College of Charleston Place. So it was really inspiring.”
BOSTON FOR THE BOOKS
The historic Symphony Hall, known for its world-class acoustics and legendary performers, set the perfect backdrop as students delivered a program filled with energy, precision, and passion.
From the first note to the final applause, the concert not only showcased musical talent but also reflected the dedication and teamwork that brought the entire Plant Orchestra ensemble to life.