Submitted by Islands Sinfonia
Celebrating the start of its 33rd season, 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 Saturday, Sept. 23 on Orcas.
“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.
Islands Sinfonia 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 noon – 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23 at the Orcas school band room. The Sinfonia is led by director Jim Shaffer-Bauck, also serving as timpanist. Atchley, 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 spring 2018. Sinfonia has musicians from all these islands that regularly attend rehearsals. Let Karen know if you would like to carpool, and musicians will gladly bring you to rehearsals and concerts.
“The Island Sinfonia concert was a 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 encourages 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 the ranks.
Sinfonia looks 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. Island Sinfonia learns and grows as a musical family, sharing their love of music with our community and its visitors.
For more information, text Karen Blinn at 360-298-2434 or email gblinn@rockisland.com.
