By Amy Rowley
“People often dismiss classical music,” states Hyunjin Kim. “But if you come watch us, you will see that we rock out,” adds Zoe Chapman.
The two high school students are referring to their roles within Student Orchestras of Greater Olympia (SOGO).
The youth symphony, led by Music Director, John Welsh, and Artistic Director, Greg Allison, is comprised of three orchestras, plus a Brass Choir, divided mostly by age but also ability. Lantz Berets and Jeff Lund also conduct and have a team of teaching artists that assist various orchestra sections. SOGO performs three concerts during the school year at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts, an experience that is rich for all the students.
Along with creating opportunities for Thurston County students to perform, SOGO supplies high school students with a unique leadership opportunity. SOGO is one of the few student-led orchestras in the nation, which is important because the students have a voice in the operation of the orchestra.
Zoe Chapman, Hyunjin Kim, Alexus Kaminski, and Henry Nordhorn are four members of SOGO’s top-level Conservatory orchestra. They also represent all of the students on SOGO’s non-profit leadership board. “It’s a bridge between students and the board of directors,” explains Henry, a junior at Olympia High School.
“In this leadership position, we aren’t just musicians but also advocates,” says Zoe, a cellist who has played with SOGO for eight years. Zoe says that her role helps her meet other people within SOGO.
“Taking this position helps the way I play,” adds Alexus. “I used to be in the background but now I’m out there, trying to be a soloist.” Alexus, a sophomore at Timberline High School, says that her involvement in SOGO leadership will help her with her college applications. “I can show admission officers that I wasn’t just floating by.”
For Hyunjin, a junior at Olympia High School, accepting a leadership role within SOGO was an easy step. “I’ve always been loud and a leader, but this position has made me care even more about SOGO,” she says, stressing that one way she leads by example is by coming prepared to each rehearsal.
Besides offering opportunities for expanding their resumes and learning about leadership, these four students are also evolving in their musical careers.
“SOGO is the reason I have continued with music,” says Zoe, a drum major with the Black Hills High School marching band. “The SOGO directors saw my potential and helped me to see that it’s OK to fail and keep trying.” Zoe also credits SOGO for being flexible when a medical condition prevented her from playing cello. She moved into percussion during her recovery.
“I would have quit violin too without SOGO,” confers violinist Hyunjin. “As much as I like solo playing, being a part of an orchestra is just so much fun.”
The other musicians quickly agree with Hyunjin, circling back to specific concert pieces during last year’s season that they particularly enjoyed.
“At SOGO, you play with people that are at your level or above. We can do professional level music in this setting because everyone cares,” describes Henry, who is in his sixth year with SOGO playing the French horn.
There is no doubt that these are busy high school students. Weekly, they spend two hours at SOGO rehearsal plus countless hours practicing at home for both SOGO and their high school music commitments. Plus, they are each tackling a heavy academic load and involved in athletics. For these students, involvement in SOGO helps keep everything else in line.
“Managing my time gets hard,” admits Zoe. “On Sunday night, you can’t cram in your homework because you have SOGO rehearsal. But, practicing your music gives you an excuse to take a break from homework and still be productive.”
SOGO members stress, however, that you can definitely manage academics, other musical commitments and SOGO. “It doesn’t matter if you want to continue with music or if it’s just something that you enjoy, come try SOGO,” encourages Hyunjin, who has been a part of the group for six years.
Sitting onstage at The Washington Center is a culminating experience that is rare for high school musicians. “To play in a full symphony on The Washington Center stage is wonderful,” continues Hyunjin. “This isn’t a school gym,” she adds.
“I would encourage people to come to the Messiah,” shares Alexus, referring to SOGO’s free sing-a-long event at The Washington Center on Monday, December 21 at 7:00 p.m. Zoe adds that SOGO’s free Messiah performance has “passion, youthfulness and attention to detail.”
“I am so proud to be a part of SOGO. I dissolve into the music and the greatness of the entire ensemble,” concludes Zoe.
To schedule an audition with SOGO, click here. Tickets to upcoming performances can be purchased by visiting olytix.org.
