From February 9-11, Colorado State University held All state orchestra for the top high school string players in the state. Fossil Ridge High School had the ability to represent seven students, six on string instruments, and one on French horn. Representing Fossil were Maggie Chao, Esther Jeong, and Josh Lee, all sophomores, juniors Sasha Chappell and Arnold Pfahnl, and seniors Nick Lin and Mina Chi.
The concert featured two orchestras with seasoned guest conductors to further teach the students. Gary Nicholson was conductor of the Philharmonic Orchestra, and is also conductor of the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony orchestra. Sayra Siverson conductor of the Albuquerque Youth Symphony, directed the Symphony Orchestra. Both conductors are well respected in their communities.
The event provided opportunities for students to learn new skill sets to carry on throughout their entire music career. “All state orchestra is a great place for musicians who really want to take it to the next level. It’s a great way for musicians to collaborate and hone their musical experiences together to improve their music ability,” Chappell states positively.