On January 30th, Langley’s orchestra embarked on a trip to Orlando, Florida, where they visited theme parks and performed at the local school
Every year, the orchestra, as well as the band and choral departments, makes a trip to a new destination where they will be performing and sightseeing. This year, they went to Universal Studios, Disney World, and the Cherokee School of Orlando. At the Cherokee School of Orlando, they showcased songs from each of their orchestra sections.
From the beginning of January through the week before the trip, the orchestras have devoted ample time and hard work toward perfecting their pieces. “Students have around the clock been listening to and practicing Disney music, from the moment the new year began, immersing themselves in Disney” said orchestra director Dr. Scott McCormick. “Because the music is familiar it makes it less of a burden, but there are still some hidden challenges in technique for the students.”
Despite there being annual orchestra trips as well as several orchestra concerts throughout the year, this trip was different from others because the students played music for tourists as they passed by them during their performance at Disney World. “It’s going to be different because there isn’t a set audience, and we’ll just be performing for whoever walks by,” said sophomore violinist Kitty Ascrizzi.
More than anything, the students were very excited to visit the theme parks with their peers. “Being at a place like Orlando is an amazing experience in itself, but being able to share the experience with friends is even better,” said freshman violinist Dotson Hsing. “The highlight will definitely be chasing goblins at Harry Potter World because I’m a goblin and a state champ,” added senior violinist Justin Nguyen.