The upcoming Orchestra concert this Thursday, December 9th, is a package built to entertain. CHS Orchestra conductor Mrs. Brigid Mayer says that she’s honoring the expectations for the holiday-themed event by selecting a list of seasonal arrangements.  The songs were additionally chosen based on educational ability and quality; to represent a variety of different styles and themes. Although this was challenging, it is not one of the most difficult parts of her job as an orchestra conductor. 

Orchestra was yet another aspect of CHS that was put on pause due to the pandemic. Throughout last year, until the hybrid model was put into place, no in-person practice was permitted. This proved to be a severe hindrance to the advancement of the CHS orchestra. With the added split of the high school into Adrienne C. Nelson, the orchestra’s numbers dwindled. This was not what Mrs. Mayer had expected in her fourth year at Clackamas Highschool. Nevertheless, her 20 years of experience have made bouncing back look easy. 

Returning to human interaction and classroom routine (not just staring at screens online) has been very “refreshing.”  Mrs. Mayer says that making rewarding connections and working collectively “is the heart of the orchestra.”  Although there were some setbacks with returning to the orchestra’s previous level,  Mrs. Mayer optimistically states that the students are performing better than expected. The current music is a bit easier than what would have been played in previous years, however, the orchestra plays it solidly and confidently; which in the end is the goal.  Advancing was a challenge last year, but the students that took orchestra seriously did a ”pretty good job of maintaining the level they were at without the help of in-person conducting and collaboration with other students.”

One of the struggles experienced with returning to in-person class with the new safety measurements is the difficulties of conducting with a mask on. Mrs. Mayer made the cautious decision to require masks for both herself and all members of the orchestra on stage. The option to have no masks was available, yet having masks on allows for a safer and more comfortable/inclusive environment. Since an orchestra is composed of only stringed instruments it is not as hard as say band or choir, where using your mouth is required to play the instrument. However, there are nuances and ways to communicate on stage that have been limited due to the coverings of faces. Mouthing words like “be quieter” or “have more energy” have become impossible. Facial expressions and tone changes are now more difficult to spread across the orchestra subtly. In addition to this, conducting a full concert in a row for each level of the orchestra is physically demanding on its own. The movement, the concentration, and the pressure of a crowd behind you are all a part of the job. The added struggle of breathing through a mask is not helpful in the slightest. 

Despite all of the rules, regulations, and challenges faced with having an in-person orchestra during a pandemic, Mrs. Mayer is optimistic that the Clackamas Highschool Orchestra is regaining its strength and will continue to grow. The overall goal for the school year is not to compete competitively, but to bring joy to the community through music and the hard work of students. Ultimately, to uplift people and have a fun environment that everyone can appreciate is the primary objective!

The upcoming Orchestra Concert will be held at the Clackamas High school Auditorium at 7 pm on December 9th. Everyone is welcome!