Orchestra students are preparing for the Upcoming Solo & Ensemble. When asked about the opportunity, Barrett Carter, 11, said “Solo & Ensemble is an opportunity for members of Orchestra to independently prepare a piece of music with a group or as a solo and then perform it to a judge.” 

Carter, who plays the cello, also shared more details about his Solo & Ensemble audition. “I’m performing a quartet with  Danielle Sullivan, Calista Sprague, and Karley Perkins,” said Carter. They are playing a string quartet by Handel. “It is mostly violin focused so, as a cellist, I provide a lot of support,” Carter adds, “it is a very beautiful piece and remarkably Baroque.”

Solo and Ensemble can be difficult for students. “It’s often difficult to find times to rehearse during April. Between AP exam preparation and the school musical, it’s pretty difficult to make sure the piece is adequately prepared,” he said. What makes Solo and Ensemble different from typical concerts is the smaller groups they perform. Carter said, “Playing in a small group is always very rewarding and makes you more aware of how you sound on your own.”