Bryce Jones and Katie Eichhorn
If you’re not aware of the music scene here at Iowa State, you need to change that ASAP. There are so many different musical groups on campus that there is bound to be one everyone can enjoy. There are men’s and women’s vocal ensembles, jazz combos, concert bands, the marching band, and of course the Iowa State Symphony Orchestra. There’s a little bit of a stigma when it comes to watching an orchestra perform. I believe it’s safe to say that most college students when they think of an orchestra concert, picture formally dressed 70+ year olds in the audience while the actual players perform Beethoven for hours straight. In other words: it’s boring. However, this is not the case. Being in orchestra for nine years of my life I’m a little biased, but believe me when I tell you that it is nothing like its stereotype. It’s exciting. While only being at Iowa State for two semesters so far, I can say for a fact that the music we play varies dramatically– we feature modern and contemporary pieces, pieces that speak to certain cultures and yes, we do classical pieces, but it’s actually some of the coolest and most invigorating music you will ever hear. Last semester, we played a piece called “The Facts and Dreams of the World According to Michael Jackson”, which the composer explained to us is based on how he believed Michael Jackson would see the world if he were on drugs. This semester we are also playing an unconventional piece entitled “Libertadores”, in which members of the orchestra have to not only clap their hands and sway to the music, but also sing. So it really is like nothing like you would expect. Plus, formal dress is definitely not required. Music, whether it’s orchestral, jazz or hip-hop, speaks to people. I think one of the best parts about orchestra is that as an audience member you can see how the music being played is speaking to the performers, while also speaking to you. It can be an emotional experience and make you tear up, or it can be fun and lighthearted and brighten your mood. Whatever kind of music it is, as players we work hard for many hours before a concert to make sure that we will put on an amazing performance for those watching. There are many talented people within ISU Symphony, and I can assure you that if you came out and watched you would really be astonished at how incredibly they play. Hopefully now by reading this article we have sparked some interest about the orchestra here at Iowa State! If you are interested in seeing us perform we have multiple concerts this spring semester. If you are looking to get involved in music here at Iowa State head on over to the Iowa State Music Website, where you can find more information about the many groups that are available to join.
Upcoming Concert Dates:
Saturday March 4th at 7:30pm in the Martha-Ellen Tye Recital Hall Saturday April 22nd at 7:30pm in CY-Stephens Auditorium
