October 2019 Music Student of the Month – Katie Spinogatti

Since first grade, Katie knew that the violin would be the instrument of her choice and it is still the instrument she turns to whenever she is feeling bored or sad. She has some wise words for beginning strings students below.  Congratulations Katie, we love your attitude to learning music! It will be rough when … More October 2019 Music Student of the Month – Katie Spinogatti

September 2019 Music Student of the Month – Sintia Cruz Hernandez

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

April 2019 Music Student of the Month – Royce Tye

It’s only his first year in Band but 5th-grader Royce Tye already dreams of playing all his favorite songs.  In a heartwarming twist, he already has his own trumpet that has been in the family for almost a century.  What a fantastic start! Congratulations on being April’s Student Musician of the Month, we can’t wait … More April 2019 Music Student of the Month – Royce Tye

Senior Student Projects That Are Giving Back Through Music

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

Mar 2019 Music Student of the Month – Lillian Hodges

6th grader Lillian is in tuned with how music can change her mood.  This girl loves listening to hip-hop but she’s just as serious about learning to play the violin at school.  “I like the harmonies. I like how it’s peaceful.  It makes me feel calm.” Orcas Middle School Strings member Lillian Hodges Strings Director … More Mar 2019 Music Student of the Month – Lillian Hodges

Feb 2019 Music Student of the Month – Rhya Segault

6th grader Rhya plays the clarinet in the Middle School band and is enthusiastic about learning music, so much so that Band Director Darren Dix has noted her progress and leadership in class.  Congratulations on being February’s Student Musician of the Month! “Take your instrument home from school and practice!” says Orcas Middle School Strings … More Feb 2019 Music Student of the Month – Rhya Segault

January 2019 Music Student of the Month – Kai Ross

Kai first had his ear on a viola played at an Orcas Chamber Music Festival Concert years ago, leading him to pick up the instrument at school.  Besides simply loving the sound, he sees music opening the doors to travel!  May you go far, Kai Ross.  Congratulations on being January’s Student Musician of the Month! … More January 2019 Music Student of the Month – Kai Ross

December 2018 Music Student of the Month – Moose Kinsey

Moose has been playing the cello for five years and continues to get a thrill out of learning to play a piece.  It’s a privilege to see our young musicians develop. Congratulations Moose for being recognized as our December 2018 student musician! “Whatever language people speak, they understand you when you play music.” says Orcas … More December 2018 Music Student of the Month – Moose Kinsey