As we have begun a new year at Los Osos high school, seniors have started their last year. 

In the past three years, there have been interesting changes in the Music department, due to the shift in directors for band and orchestra.

With the departure of Solomon Encina, it leaves one wondering, what is the music department doing now? 

To be specific, what is orchestra up to these days? 

Orchestra is the backbone of most high school art and music departments. Seniors in orchestra mostly take on the leadership roles such as concertmasters, section leaders, or roles that require them to guide the underclassmen and to have technical skills. 

Events like the March Fest, Heritage Festival, and the amazing Film Concert really highlight how talented the Los Osos Orchestra truly is.

It also presents how much work and effort they put into their performances. 

But have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes? In an interview with a Los Osos senior, who wished to remain anonymous, they shared what their experience in orchestra has been like. 

“Back in my first three years of orchestra, the orchestra has been somewhat left out of activities because the music program has been focused on the band, but this year the director (Director Steve Krumbine) has been very passionate about all the music ensembles.” 

The Los Osos music department has spotlight moments for their unique instruments and groups of talent.

Band has their football games, rallies, and concerts throughout the year, as Osos band brings the high energy. 

While the orchestra is more elegant and theatrical, they do not get many opportunities to show the entire school their music. 

From the perspective of a stringed instrument player, it does seem difficult to walk around playing an instrument that requires two tools. 

Especially if the sound relies on the player’s precision and skills using two hands. 

Orchestra and Band are like siblings in a way, both are completely different, yet can create beautiful melodies. 

There is a chance that the band’s constant spotlight was unintentional, looking at the differences between a trumpet and a violin. 

For seniors, it is important that if they plan to go to college that they are prepared and have accomplished many milestones to add to their applications.

The final year of high school is majorly demanding, seniors in orchestra have to manage both academics and maintain their technical skills. 

Although orchestra could be a stress reliever for underclassmen, for seniors, it can be either positive or negative. 

Based on my research, it seems that students in orchestra as a whole enjoy it very much. 

Los Osos Senior Chloe Fung said, “As a person who has played violin for 12 years, orchestra is not too hard for beginners and not overly easy for experienced players.” 

Upperclassmen and underclassmen alike encourage students to join their musical family. 

The director of Orchestra, Krumbine, also known as Mr. K, has planned a special event for the orchestra students. 

Later this year, the Los Osos string musicians are going to visit Disneyland! It is such an exciting upcoming group event.

All of the music department deserves a day of fun and adventure, but for orchestra this is wonderful news. 

This will give them the opportunity to become closer to one another and potentially improve their performances. 

Wish the best of luck to our amazing Orchestra grizzlies!