Just a Little Taller: A Daily Orchestra Program Moment

“Wait, so do you have rehearsals too?” asked James as we both packed our violins into their cases. We had just finished a lesson, in which we had spent a lot of time focusing on being prepared. Rests are never idle in orchestra music, and James had worked very hard during the lesson to set his bow silently on the string during each rest in order to be ready for his turn to play. At the end I told him that being prepared is something I still have to think about during my own orchestra rehearsals. My statement must have sparked his curiosity.

I responded to his question, “Yes, definitely. Sometimes I rehearse with other people at Community MusicWorks. Sometimes Adrienne and I play together. Sometimes I even have rehearsals with really large orchestras. Of course I also practice every day to make sure I can play as well as I want to.”

James looked thoughtful and responded “Hmmmm. So you’re just like us really!”

“Yes!” I agreed and then added “ just a little taller” as we shared a laugh on our walk down the hallway towards the orchestra room.

It’s these moments of connection with my students that remind me of what Community MusicWorks is all about!

–Lisa Barksdale