On 23–24 May, Taharoto Strings and Symphonic Band participated in their joint in-house camp—a memorable two days filled with learning, music-making, and connection. Ms Lee is the director of this Taharoto Strings and the students took part in a variety of workshops focused on intonation, tuning, and sectionals. Sessions led by professional musicians from the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra were both inspiring and enriching, offering valuable guidance on technique.
The camp also included bonding activities with the Symphonic Band, supported by Year 12 and 13 student leaders. The ensemble’s music director is Mr Howan. To conclude the camp, students performed four pieces at a parent concert, showcasing their hard work and progress.
Here’s what Year 10 student Amy Malcolm had to say about the experience:
“It was such a privilege to be tutored and inspired by the professional APO musicians who came in to run workshops and sectionals. They were very nice and helped me improve my accuracy and tone. Additionally, the camp boosted my confidence with playing the cool repertoire Ms Lee, Taharoto String Orchestra’s conductor, picked. The time we spent playing together helped create strong bonds and friendships between all of us students.”