◆ Local middle school and high school musicians take part in clinics.

Star Valley High School and Star Valley Middle School music students welcomed the University of Wyoming Symphony Orchestra for a visit on Monday, November 18.

The symphony orchestra played a mini concert for the Star Valley students, and then held small clinics and offered individual coaching with Star Valley Orchestra and Star Valley Band students during their school day.

Dr. Michael Griffith, UW Director of Orchestral Activities, conducted the guest performance, while Dr. John Fadial, UW Professor of Violin Studies, played a movement from the Dvorak Violin Concerto in A minor, Op. 53.

“The orchestra was exceptional,” said Lisa Barber, SVHS and SVMS Orchestra Director. “This was a very special opportunity for our students to have some individualized instruction focusing on technique from advanced college musicians and in some cases professional musicians who are traveling with the orchestra.

Dr. Griffith spent the afternoon working with our chamber orchestra students as an ensemble and providing feedback on solos and duets. It was a wonderful experience for our students to work with a collegiate-level conductor.”

“The UW musicians shared wonderful insights and tips for improving musicianship and technique,” said Kurt Sand, SVHS and SVMS Band Director. “Our students also learned what opportunities are available for those who desire to continue to make music in college.”

Freshman SVHS orchestra student Tom Cunningham told instructors, “It was a great experience to spend time with someone who is continuing to pursue music after high school. It inspired me to want to stay involved in music in college.”

“It was super fun,” said Senior Ellie Schrieber, who is a violinist with the SVHS Chamber Orchestra. “The music was phenomenal, and it was nice to get the perspective of an outsider on the way we play our pieces.”

UW Students were housed Monday evening with local families. Two or more students were welcomed into local homes for the night and then returned to their group Tuesday morning when they resumed their brief tour of Western Wyoming and Eastern Idaho secondary schools.

“The hospitality of our families was an integral part of making this happen,” said Barber. “The UW students were very appreciative of the welcome they had in Star Valley and we were very appreciative of the talent and time they shared with us!”