Approximately 80 middle and high school students from throughout San Bernardino County showcased their talents during the 2022 County Honor Orchestras Concert on Saturday, March 5, at the University of Redlands Memorial Chapel.
“It is remarkable to see all these talented student musicians from across the county unite for an outstanding performance,” said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. “This is a wonderful event and really puts student talent in the spotlight, recognizing their hard work, diligence and dedication.”
Since 1986, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools has collaborated with the San Bernardino County Music Educators Association to host the honor orchestras concert for students involved in music education programs throughout the county.
“It’s amazing to be able to come and meet people I know I never would have been able to meet,” said Rachel, a student at Oak Hills High School and orchestra participant. “I’ve been playing viola for six years. I love being able to come here and have this experience, and it’s such a unique experience that most people don’t get to have.”
More than 30 students from a dozen area middle schools took the stage first, and the chapel was filled with the sounds of violins, violas, cellos and basses.
Middle school students were conducted by Adelle Glass, an elementary instrumental music teacher in Redlands Unified School District, who led them in the opening arrangement of Alborada from Capriccio Espagnol.
Following the middle school performance, the high school honor orchestra opened with a rendition of Allegretto, the first movement of Palladio by Karl Jenkins.
Todd Montemayor conducted the 50 students, who represented 14 different high schools.
Montemayor is an instrumental music teacher at Del Vallejo Middle School in San Bernardino and both the music director and conductor of the Redlands Youth Symphony.
The two orchestras played four pieces each, delivering performances that received thunderous applause.
While string instruments took center stage during this performance, wind and percussion instrumentalists will come to the University of Redlands campus on April 16 for the Basin Honor Band Concert.
University of Redlands and the University School of Music have a long history of supporting the County honor band and honor orchestra performances. The use of the Memorial Chapel has been provided for many years and university music students provide logistical support for the event.
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