Henry, an 8th grader, has been playing percussion since 5th grade, and now finds himself tapping out a tempo quite naturally. His advice for new or hesitant students is simply to not overthink it because playing music is fun. Nevertheless, Band Director Darren Dix has noted Henry’s effort at pushing himself musically throughout the virtual … More February 2021 Music Student of the Month – Henry Walker
Our music students never cease to inspire us! 5th grader Molly Johnston started learning the trumpet in the middle of the pandemic, when band class at school was only taking place online. In the face of the challenges of beginning a new instrument and navigating online classes, Molly has remained enthusiastic and makes the effort … More December 2020 Music Student of the Month – Molly Johnston
Morgan picked up the viola when she joined middle school strings as a 7th grader and she has shown that hard work and a good attitude pays off, catching up quickly with her classmates who mostly started at 5th grade. She has some proven tips for musicians of all ages. Congratulations on being recognized November … More November 2020 Music Student of the Month – Morgan Anderson
High school band student Will Stephens is setting a great example by keeping up his trombone practice and managing all the digital challenges of online band class. Will started on the trombone because a friend was playing it and, after 5 years, Will has discovered a few other benefits to being in band that has … More October 2020 Music Student of the Month – Will Stephens
This is Orlando’s first year learning the trumpet and he is enjoying learning all about the instrument. He’s eager to improve and actively asks for advice on how to get to the next level–an attitude that Band Director Darren Dix appreciates. He has great advice for other new learners and that is, ‘Just try to … More January 2020 Music Student of the Month – Orlando Ljubic
Be sure to catch him and the High School Orchestra perform at the Orcas Center on Thursday Dec 12, at 7pm. Go for it, Christian! … More November 2019 Music Student of the Month – Christian Heisinger
Hello from MAG! The school music program started on a high note with the highly anticipated Multi-purpose Music Room ready for students. Final touches are still being made, and there are many needs, but the excitement felt as each class walked in for the first time has been infectious. String students have more elbow room … More Fall 2019 – Back to School Music
Sintia is picking up a new instrument this year, the euphonium, after two years of playing the trumpet in the school band, and she is enjoying the new sound. She appreciates how music can help shift her mood, whether it is to calm her nerves or keep her feeling upbeat. Congratulations to Sintia for being the … More September 2019 Music Student of the Month – Sintia Cruz Hernandez
Three graduating seniors at Orcas Island High School have each embarked on a musically-focused senior project as their way to give back to the music-loving Orcas community that has supported their musical development while at the public school. Dishwashing to opera music Luke Pietsch was first introduced to opera fortuitously, while working as a dishwasher … More Senior Student Projects That Are Giving Back Through Music
Orcas High School Band students enjoyed an unforgettable night at the opera on January 26. A dozen excited student musicians, accompanied by Band Director Darren Dix and parent chaperones, made the trip to watch Seattle Opera’s last-night performance of Il Trovatore, Verdi’s masterpiece of love, passion and revenge, set during a time of Civil War. … More Orcas Band Students Attend Seattle Opera
