Silverado Advanced and Chamber Orchestras went to California on April 21 to perform for the Music in the Parks competition. In a division full of chamber orchestras, Advanced took fourth place with their performance of “The Odyssey” and “The Emerald Falcon” and was only a few points behind the orchestras above them. Chamber orchestra played “Visions of the Sky” and “Elementa,” winning first place in the division, first place orchestra overall with a score of 98, the highest of any group in the entire competition. Silverado also won the “esprit de corps” award for demonstrating politeness, etiquette and respect for everything.

Silverado orchestras celebrated their hard work by spending April 22 at Knott’s Berry Farm. They went on many absolutely thrilling rides. Students encouraged each other when they were scared to go on rides and had a great deal of fun together. 

“Being in orchestra this year with our amazing presidents Alijah and Will, along with Ms. Riedy, has been once again an amazing experience,” said junior Madeline Pojar, orchestra council president for next school year. “Going to Knotts Berry Farm for music in the parks for the first time was a surreal moment not just for me but for the rest of the orchestra.”

Orchestra seniors celebrated their final concert at Silverado on April 25. It was a very emotional performance, and the hard working orchestra council and seniors were honored. Beginning orchestra performed in concert for their very first time, playing “Conquest,” “Dramatic Essay,” “Danza Espanola” and “Land of Dragons” with many students with different groups outside their classes. Chamber and Advanced reprised their competition music, and Chamber played “Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral” as well. Everyone joined the final song, “Viva la Vida” all together, with the seniors in front. They played that song in commemoration of the seniors, with lights out and a slideshow played in celebration of the seniors and the memories they’ve made.

“Throughout the year, playing music has connected us in many ways, being our own little orchestra family,” Pojar said. “I am so thankful I got to be a part of this, and I am excited to do it again next year.”