Author: mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes for CONCERT WEEK: 11/6 – 11/9

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi all,

Great work on Sunday (11/2). I think this is going to be a great concert!

See below for a rehearsal recap, a detailed plan for each weeknight rehearsal and other important information.

Best,

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – November 2, 2025

  • First half of rehearsal:
    • Flute Concerto by Castro D’Addona (all three movements, no soloist). Solid work all around. Please focus on the fast section of the 2nd movement (with metronome), and make sure to understand all the rhythms in movement 3.
    • Max’s “Erin’s First Sabbath.” – thanks for picking up the new parts. If you were missing on Sunday, please make sure to grab the new parts on Thursday. There are important differences. Strings: make sure to copy the bowings from the first stands into your parts. We worked backwards on Sunday, covering from R to the end of the piece in good detail. We did a little work from K to R, and the transition to letter G for a few bars.
  • Second half:
    • Brahms, movement 4: I intended to also cover movements 3 and 2, but we ended up spending the whole time on the 4th movement. We did good work on it, though. From now until Thursday evening, please make sure to practice difficult passages in the whole symphony, and just as importantly, please listen to recordings!! “Know how it goes,” as I often find myself saying.
    • Keeping this bullet point from last week: This whole symphony requires constant engagement and attention, so we can realize all the many small (but very important) details. The moment we disengage and go into “automatic pilot,” that’s when we lose details like articulation, intention and balance.

Rehearsal Plan for Thursday, November 6, 2025

  • Arrival: 6:45pm at the latest – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • 7:00pm-7:30pm: Evans-McGlothin, Erin’s First Sabbath – if you were missing on 11/2, get your final parts here.
  • 7:30pm-9:30pm: Brahms Symphony – Working run-through of whole symphony, in order. We’ll take a break somewhere in the middle.
  • 9:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Rehearsal Plan for Friday, November 7, 2025

  • Arrival: 6:45pm at the latest – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • 7:00pm-8:00pm: Castro D’Addona, whole concerto (with soloist)
  • 8:00pm-9:30pm: Brahms Symphony – Work based on how things went Thursday night. We’ll take a break somewhere in the middle.
  • 9:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Rehearsal Plan for Saturday, November 8, 2025

  • Arrival: 6:45pm at the latest – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • DRESS REHEARSAL IN CONCERT ORDER (times are approximate)
    • 7:00pm-7:20pm: Evans-McGlothin, Erin’s First Sabbath
    • 7:20pm-8:00pm: Castro D’Addona, whole concerto (with soloist)
    • 8:00pm-8:10pm: break
    • 8:10pm-9:30pm: Brahms Symphony – Full run-through and spot-checking after.
  • 9:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Call Sheet and Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, November 9, 2025

  • Everybody got a hard copy of our call sheet on Sunday 11/2. If you were missing, you can find it here. It’s also on our website, and Mark has sent it out via email.
    • 2:30pm – call time for percussionists and Group Managers
    • 3:00pm – call time for everybody else (see instructions on call sheet)
  • Rehearsal plan (times are approximate)
    • 3:30pm: Evans-McGlothin
    • 3:45pm: Castro D’Addona
    • 4:00pm-4:50pm: Brahms

Looking ahead: Rehearsal on November 16

We will start new music on 11/16 (Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6). CAN.NOT.WAIT!!!!!!!!

I’ll send new part assignments on Wednesday, 11/12, based mostly on your leadership auditions.

Also, please note that we will have an earlier start and an abbreviated rehearsal on 11/16 (4:30pm-6:30pm) due to the MYS Community Concert that evening. It would be fantastic for all of you to attend this concert. Our Jazz Ensembles are performing, as well as MYSfits with GRAMMY-winning guests from Boston A Far Cry.

We have a regular rehearsal on 11/23, and then we’re off on 11/30.

String Players: represent MYS at this Oregon Chorale program

Represent MYS in a couple of performances with the Oregon Chorale in December: the Oregon Chorale will be the choir joining MYS Symphony Orchestra in June 2026 for our performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, and we are thrilled to collaborate with them.

They are looking for a small string ensemble to join them for their holiday concerts. Please click here for details and to sign up.

MYS SYMPHONY Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

Winds + brass players: we will remove some of the doublings in Castro D’Addona’s flute concerto, but everybody will play. I’ll let you know the plan before our Thursday rehearsal.

PDF Practice Parts

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “S.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Recruit for MYS

If you have friends at school who would enjoy playing with us, send me their name and email and I’m happy to reach out. Or, you could give them my email. Right now, in this orchestra, we could use more percussionists, french horns and one trombone. Concert Orchestra has openings too.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand on Sunday)

Dr. G.

IT’S CONCERT TIME!!!!!!

CONCERT Orchestra Notes for November 9, 2025

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi everyone,

Fantastic rehearsal last Sunday (11/2). It’s concert week! Below is a recap of 11/2, a link to our call sheet, and a bit more information about the coming weeks.

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – 11/02/25

  • First half of rehearsal:
    • We did detailed work on the Smyth, and a couple of run-throughs.
  • Second half of rehearsal:
    • More Smyth
    • Run-through of program (Smyth and Brahms)
    • Additional work on Brahms

General notes between now and the concert on Sunday: focus on strategic practicing at slower tempos WITH A METRONOME. Make sure you’re playing every single detail on the page (dynamics, articulations, accurate rhythms, excellent intonation, correct bow placement, etc…). Then, choose sections to play at gradually faster tempos, until reaching performance tempi.

On Sunday, our focus should be mostly on listening to each other and staying engaged with the baton. It will be a great concert!

Call Sheet for Concert Day – 11/09/25

Here’s direct link to our call sheet. It has also been sent out by Mark via email, and is available on our website. Please be on time for our 5:30pm call time. Make sure to leave enough time to park, etc. We have very limited rehearsal time on stage, so, it’s crucial to be punctual for our call time.

Looking ahead: Rehearsal on November 16

We will start new music on 11/16 (Mozart Symphony No. 40). I’ll send new part assignments on Wednesday 11/12, based mostly on your leadership auditions.

Also, please note that we will have an abbreviated rehearsal on 11/16 (2pm-4pm) due to the MYS Community Concert that evening. It would be fantastic for all of you to attend this concert. Our Jazz Ensembles are performing, as well as MYSfits with GRAMMY-winning guests from Boston A Far Cry.

We have a regular rehearsal on 11/23, and then we’re off on 11/30.

String Players: join Symphony players for this Oregon Chorale program

Represent MYS in a couple of performances with the Oregon Chorale in December: the Oregon Chorale will be the choir joining MYS Symphony Orchestra in June 2026 for our performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, and we are thrilled to collaborate with them.

They are looking for a small string ensemble to join them for their holiday concerts. Please click here for details and to sign up.

MYS CONCERT Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

No changes this week.

Find PDF Practice Parts at the MYS Online Music Library

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “C.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand)

Dr. G.

Yes, it was 87° at this photoshoot. MYS Students at P5 venues, August 2025 | Photo by Sheepscot Creative

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes for November 2, 2025

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi all,

I’m grateful for another productive rehearsal on Sunday, 10/26. We’re in the home stretch! Only one more Sunday rehearsal before our concert, and our weeknight rehearsals leading up to it are just around the corner.

Don’t forget about Daylight Saving Time ending this coming Sunday.

See below for a rehearsal recap, our plan for 11/2 and other important information.

Best,

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – October 26, 2025

  • First half of rehearsal:
    • We worked on the Flute Concerto by Castro D’Addona with Adam – movements 2 and 3
    • We worked on Max’s “Erin’s First Sabbath.” – note: there are NEW parts for this piece created after our Sunday rehearsal. Please access those new parts here.
  • Second half:
    • Brahms, movements 1 and 4 – we spent most of our time on the 1st movement of the symphony. It’s important to be aware and understand which sections of the movement are at a slower, more relaxed pace. It’s equally important to understand when we push forward, or relax back. We worked only on the transition to the coda and the coda of movement 4. We’ll need to catch up on this movement.
    • This whole symphony requires constant engagement and attention, so we can realize all the many small (but very important) details. The moment we disengage and go into “automatic pilot,” that’s when we lose details like articulation, intention and balance.

Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, November 2, 2025

  • Arrival: 5:15pm – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • 5:30pm-6:15pm: Castro D’Addona, whole concerto (no soloist)
  • 6:15pm-6:45pm: Evans-McGlothin, Erin’s First Sabbath (TRUE final version) – get your final parts here.
  • 6:45pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: Brahms, movements 4, 3 and 2.
  • 8:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Reminder: Leadership Auditions due by EOD today (Tue 10/28)

Leadership Auditions are due from everyone by end-of-day today, Tuesday 10/28. All the information you need, including the link to the Google form to submit your video, can be found here.

String Players: represent MYS at this Oregon Chorale program

Represent MYS in a couple of performances with the Oregon Chorale in December: the Oregon Chorale will be the choir joining MYS Symphony Orchestra in June 2026 for our performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, and we are thrilled to collaborate with them.

They are looking for a small string ensemble to join them for their holiday concerts. Please click here for details and to sign up.

New FINAL parts for Erin’s First Sabbath

As I mentioned above, we have new parts for this piece (finalized AFTER our Sunday rehearsal). We’ll have new hard copies on Sunday, but for the meantime, please get these final parts here. You know you have the latest version if the rehearsal letters to up to the double digits after “Z.” (AA, etc).

Call Sheet for November 9 Concert

Here’s our call sheet for November 9th. We’ll have hard copies on Sunday 11/2. Please read and understand everything on it! Let me know if there are any questions. Please note that our call time is 3:00pm!!

Congratulations to the winners of our Concerto Competition

MYS Symphony Orchestra members competed on Friday, 10/24 for a chance to be featured as soloists with our ensembles. Dana Sparling (flute) and Margaux Hicks (cello) will perform as soloists with Symphony Orchestra (March and June, not necessarily in that order). Soren Holbrook (viola, runner-up) will perform as soloist with Concert Orchestra (May).

MYS SYMPHONY Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

No changes this week. Winds + brass players: stay tuned a little later this week for final assignments for Castro D’Addona and Evans-McGlothin.

PDF Practice Parts

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “S.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Recruit for MYS

If you have friends at school who would enjoy playing with us, send me their name and email and I’m happy to reach out. Or, you could give them my email. Right now, in this orchestra, we could use more percussionists, french horns and one trombone. Concert Orchestra has openings too.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand on Sunday)

Dr. G.

Cover image for Max Evans-McGlothin’s Erin’s First Sabbath

CONCERT Orchestra Notes for November 2, 2025

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi everyone,

Thanks for a great rehearsal on Sunday, 10/26. I’m excited about our upcoming concert in less than 2 weeks. Please see below for a recap, our rehearsal plan for 11/2, and other reminders.

Also, please remember that Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday.

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – 10/26/25

  • First half of rehearsal:
    • We did detailed work on the Smyth Symphony. At this point, we are polishing details, reinforcing nuances, and building confidence.
  • Second half of rehearsal:
    • Brahms Hungarian Dance (detailed work)
    • Holst (a little detailed work, and read most of the movement, until around #17)

Rehearsal Plan – 11/02/25

Please arrive by 1:45pm. We can always use extra hands to help set up the room if you are able to get there closer to 1:30pm. I will arrive at 1:30pm to open the space.

  • 1:45pm – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • 2:00pm-3:30pm: Smyth: run-through of whole piece, detailed work
  • 3:30pm-3:45pm – break
  • 3:45pm-4:30pm – Smyth: run-through of whole piece
  • 4:30pm-5:00pm – Brahms (with timpani)

Reminder: Leadership Auditions due by EOD today (Tue 10/28)

Leadership Auditions are due from everyone by end-of-day today, Tuesday 10/28. All the information you need, including the link to the Google form to submit your video, can be found here.

String Players: join Symphony players for this Oregon Chorale program

Represent MYS in a couple of performances with the Oregon Chorale in December: the Oregon Chorale will be the choir joining MYS Symphony Orchestra in June 2026 for our performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, and we are thrilled to collaborate with them.

They are looking for a small string ensemble to join them for their holiday concerts. Please click here for details and to sign up.

Call Sheet for November 9 Concert

Here’s our call sheet for November 9th. We’ll have hard copies on Sunday 11/2. Please read and understand everything on it! Let me know if there are any questions.

Congratulations to the winners of our Concerto Competition

MYS Symphony Orchestra members competed on Friday, 10/24 for a chance to be featured as soloists with our ensembles. Dana Sparling (flute) and Margaux Hicks (cello) will perform as soloists with Symphony Orchestra (March and June). Soren Holbrook (viola, runner-up) will perform as soloist with Concert Orchestra (May).

MYS CONCERT Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

No changes this week.

Find PDF Practice Parts at the MYS Online Music Library

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “C.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand)

Dr. G.

MYS Students at the Keller Fountain, August 2025 | Photo by Sheepscot Creative

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes for October 26, 2025

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi everyone,

Thanks for a productive rehearsal on Sunday, October 19.

We only have two more Sunday rehearsals before concert week. Now is the time to ramp up your practicing and make sure your individual parts are at your very best. Full individual confidence in your playing will allow you to dedicate more bandwidth to listening, watching and playing together. Especially listening.

Please triple-check your calendars for our evening rehearsals leading up to the concert. These rehearsals are required and extremely important. Check our season schedule linked on the sidebar of this blog.

Best,

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – October 19, 2025

  • We took our group photos
  • First half of rehearsal:
    • tutti work on Castro D’Addona – movements 2 and 3
  • Second half:
    • Brahms, movements 3 and 2. Please keep practicing and learning every little detail on your parts (dynamics, articulation, intention, type of sound, etc.)

Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, October 26, 2025

Optional: wear your Halloween costume this Sunday!

  • Arrival: 5:15pm – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
    • If you forgot on 10/19, get your concert dress reviewed and approved by Group Managers
  • 5:30pm-6:30pm: Castro D’Addona, movements 2 and 3 – a tempo!!
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: Evans-McGlothin, Erin’s First Sabbath (final version) – here’s a direct link to PDF practice parts – you may also find them on the MYS online music library. The password is playmys.
  • 7:00pm-7:15pm: break
  • 7:15pm-8:30pm: Brahms, movements 1 and 4
  • 8:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Reminder: Remedial Concert Dress Check

If you missed it on Sunday 10/19, please wear your concert attire this Sunday (10/26) and make sure that a Group Manager approves your outfit for the concert. Feel free to change back to regular clothes during the break (optional).

Optional: wear your Halloween costume on 10/26

Just make sure your costume doesn’t get in the way of your playing 🙂

Reminder: MYS Concerto Competition Finals – Friday, Oct 24, 7:00pm

Come be inspired by your Symphony Orchestra peers, as they compete for spots to be featured as soloists with our orchestras this season. Friday, October 24, 7pm, at the new MYS facilities at 3880 SE Brooklyn St.

MYS SYMPHONY Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

Please check the part assignments PDF this week. There are changes due to attendance.

Reminder re: changes in part assignments due to attendance: even if absences are due to sickness or other conflicts, adjustments are made to ensure balanced sections and confident leadership. Thanks for your understanding. (It’s very unlikely that you’ll be assigned a completely different part to play. I’ll email you directly with a heads-up if this is the case).

PDF Practice Parts

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “S.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Recruit for MYS

If you have friends at school who would enjoy playing with us, send me their name and email and I’m happy to reach out. Or, you could give them my email. Right now, in this orchestra, we could use more percussionists, french horns and one trombone. Concert Orchestra has openings too.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand on Sunday)

Dr. G.

MYS Symphony Orchestra 2025-2026 | photo by Katrina de Boer

CONCERT Orchestra Notes for October 26, 2025

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi everyone,

I’m very grateful to Casey Bozell for leading the first half of rehearsal on Sunday, 10/19 (Smyth). The second half of rehearsal (Brahms and Holst) was fun and productive.

We have only two more full rehearsals before our concert on November 9th (10/26 and 11/2). Please continue practicing the Smyth and Brahms pieces, so that you’re in complete control of your individual part and can dedicate more bandwidth to listening, watching and playing together. Especially listening.

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – 10/19/25

  • First half of rehearsal: Casey Bozell conducted Smyth. Thanks, Casey!
    • Reminders about Smyth: 1) Please practice with a metronome. 2) Our tempo main tempo for this piece is dotted quarter = 122. 3) The tempo of the coda is dotted quarter = 120.
  • We took our group photos.
  • Second half of rehearsal:
    • Brahms dance (detailed work)
    • Holst (detailed work, beginning to about No. 2)

Rehearsal Plan – 10/26/25

Optional on 10/26: wear your Halloween costume!

Please arrive by 1:45pm. We can always use extra hands to help set up the room if you are able to get there closer to 1:30pm. I will arrive at 1:30pm to open the space.

  • 1:45pm – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
    • (if you forgot to wear your concert attire on 10/19, please get it reviewed and approved by Group Managers.)
  • 2:00pm-3:30pm: Smyth: whole piece
  • 3:30pm-3:45pm – break
  • 3:45pm-4:30pm – Brahms: whole piece
  • 4:30pm-5:00pm – Holst (unless we end up spending more time on Smyth & Brahms).

Reminder: Remedial Concert Dress Check

If you forgot to wear your concert attire on Sunday 10/19, please wear it to rehearsal this weekend (10/26). Make sure to get it checked by Group Managers. Feel free to change back to regular clothes during the break.

Optional: wear your Halloween costume on 10/26

Just make sure your costume doesn’t get in the way of your playing 🙂

Reminder: MYS Concerto Competition Finals – Friday, Oct 24, 7:00pm

This is optional, but it would be great for as many of you as possible to come be inspired by your Symphony Orchestra peers, as they compete for spots to be featured as soloists with our orchestras this season. Friday, October 24, 7pm, at the new MYS facilities at 3880 SE Brooklyn St.

Reminder: Leadership Auditions are due Tue, October 28.

You’ve all been practicing our repertoire, so the musical preparation for this video audition shouldn’t feel like a giant, additional burden. Please review the required excerpts, guidelines and submission information here.

MYS CONCERT Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

There is a small change in violin seating due to attendance. Please check the Part Assignments PDF linked on the sidebar of this page.

Find PDF Practice Parts at the MYS Online Music Library

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “C.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand)

Dr. G.

MYS Concert Orchestra 2025-2026 | Photo by Ivy Chiu

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes for 10/19/25

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi everyone,

Good rehearsal on Sunday 10/12. It was our last Sunday with sectional rehearsals. From this point on, all rehearsals are tutti until the concert on November 9.

Please read on for a 10/12 rehearsal recap, our plan for 10/19 and more.

Best,

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – October 12, 2025

  • First half of rehearsal:
    • winds/brass with Adam: work on Castro D’Addona – movements 1 and middle section of movement 2
    • strings with me: work on Brahms – mov 1 (development and coda) and mov 4 (introduction, beginning to letter B
  • Second half:
    • First movement of Castro D’Addona, with Adam.
    • Brahms, mov 4: we played the whole movement, stopping as needed. It felt a little rough, as we hadn’t played it in a while, but it’s coming together. Keep up the good work!

Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, October 19, 2025

[updated Friday, 10/17, 1:45pm]

  • Arrival: 5:15pm – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • Get your concert dress reviewed and approved by Group Managers
  • 5:30pm-6:45pm: Castro D’Addona, movement 2 and 3 – please practice the fast, middle section of mov 2 with a metronome and the recording, and be ready to play movement 3 a tempo on Sunday.
  • 6:45pm-6:55pm: group photo
  • 6:55pm-7:05pm: break
  • 7:05pm-8:30pm: Brahms, movements 3 and 2 – please do a ton of listening of your favorite recordings this week for these 2 movements.
  • 8:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Reminder: Concert Dress Check & Group Photo!

Please remember to come to rehearsal in your concert attire. We’ll take our group photo at 6:45pm, and will then have a break. Feel free to change back to regular clothes during the break (optional). Space is very limited for changing on-site.

Add to your calendars: MYS Concerto Competition Finals – Friday, Oct 24, 7:00pm

This is optional, but it would be great for as many of you as possible to come be inspired by your Symphony Orchestra peers, as they compete for spots to be featured as soloists with our orchestras this season. Friday, October 24, 7pm, at the new MYS facilities at 3880 SE Brooklyn St. Note: finalists will be notified by email today (Tue), and there will be a public announcement tomorrow (Wed).

MYS SYMPHONY Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

Reminder: Check part assignments/seating rosters before each rehearsal. There may be changes due to attendance. Even if absences are due to sickness or other conflicts, adjustments are made to ensure balanced sections and confident leadership. Thanks for your understanding. (It’s very unlikely that you’ll be assigned a completely different part to play. I’ll email you directly with a heads-up if this is the case).

PDF Practice Parts

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “S.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Recruit for MYS

If you have friends at school who would enjoy playing with us, send me their name and email and I’m happy to reach out. Or, you could give them my email. Right now, in this orchestra, we could use more percussionists, french horns and one trombone. Concert Orchestra has openings too.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand on Sunday)

Dr. G.

Composer Giancarlo Castro D’Addona, Soloist Adam Eccleston and RGR | October 12, 2025 | Photo by Marian Gutiérrez

CONCERT Orchestra Notes for 10/19/25

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi all,

We are done with sectionals for this term. From now on, all rehearsals will be tutti until the concert on November 9th.

Please see below for a recap of 10/12 and our rehearsal plan for 10/19.

Thanks!

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – 10/12/25

  • First half of rehearsal: Strings worked with Casey, and woodwinds and brass with Adam.
  • Second half of rehearsal: we worked on the Smyth symphony from letter D to the end.
    • Reminders: 1) Please practice with a metronome. 2) Our tempo main tempo for this piece is dotted quarter = 122. 3) The tempo of the coda is dotted quarter = 120.
  • We worked on the entire Brahms dance. We’re now working out details and nuances like rubato, sforzandi, ends of phrases, transitions and more.
  • We spent the last 20 minutes of rehearsal reading Jupiter (beginning to No. 5).

Did you know? The original instrumentation of Brahms’ Hungarian Dances was piano duet (4 hands). See below for a performance of Dance No. 6 by a piano duo, along with the score.

Rehearsal Plan – 10/19/25

Please arrive by 1:45pm. We can always use extra hands to help set up the room if you are able to get there closer to 1:30pm. I will arrive right at 1:30pm to open the space.

  • 1:45pm – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • Get your concert dress reviewed and approved by Group Managers.
  • 2:00pm-3:30pm: Smyth Symphony [edit 10/16/25: Casey Bozell will conduct the first half of rehearsal]
  • 3:30pm-3:45pm – Group photo
  • 3:45pm-4:00pm – break
  • 4:00pm-4:30pm – Brahms: whole piece
  • 4:30pm-5:00pm – Holst: Jupiter: beginning to No. 5 (same as last Sunday)

Reminder: Concert Dress Check & Group Photo!

Please remember to come to rehearsal in your concert attire. We’ll take our group photo at 3:30pm, and will then have a break. Feel free to change back to regular clothes during the break (optional). Space is very limited for changing on-site.

Add to your calendars: MYS Concerto Competition Finals – Friday, Oct 24, 7:00pm

This is optional, but it would be great for as many of you as possible to come be inspired by your Symphony Orchestra peers, as they compete for spots to be featured as soloists with our orchestras this season. Friday, October 24, 7pm, at the new MYS facilities at 3880 SE Brooklyn St.

MYS CONCERT Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

Reminder: Check part assignments/seating rosters before each rehearsal. There may be changes due to attendance. Even if absences are due to sickness or other conflicts, adjustments are made to ensure balanced sections and confident leadership. Thanks for your understanding. (It’s very unlikely that you’ll be assigned a completely different part to play. I’ll email you directly with a heads-up if this is the case).

Find PDF Practice Parts at the MYS Online Music Library

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “C.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand)

Dr. G.

Brahms at the piano | found here, artist credit unknown

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes for 10/12/25

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi everyone,

Thanks for a productive rehearsal on Sunday 10/5. I thought the reading of Max’s piece went pretty well, and we did important work on the 3rd movement of Giancarlo’s piece. Additionally, we’re always excited to have Oregon Symphony musicians coach our sections.

Please read on for a 10/5 rehearsal recap, our plan for 10/12 and more.

Note: we’ll welcome soloist Adam Eccleston on Sunday. Please prioritize your practice as per our plan below.

Best,

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – October 5, 2025

  • First half of rehearsal: woodwinds worked with Oregon Symphony musicians on Brahms: flutes with Zach, clarinets with Lisa, bassoons with Kai and oboes with Marty. Brass worked with Adam, and strings with me.
  • Strings: we worked on the 1st movement of the Brahms Symphony. We did detailed work on the introduction, exposition (m. 38 to first ending) and recapitulation (L to P) of the movement. We didn’t get into the development or coda.
  • After the break, we read Max’s piece and did slow work on Giancarlo’s 3rd movement (slow work on rhythm). We didn’t get to the 2nd movement of the flute concerto.

Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, October 12, 2025

  • Arrival: 5:15pm – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • 5:30pm-6:45pm – sectionals
    • Strings with RGR in cafeteria – work on Brahms – mov 1 (sections we didn’t do on 10/5) and mov 4.
    • All woodwinds and brass with Adam Eccleston in pavilion – work on Castro D’Addona – movements 1 and middle section of movement 2
  • 6:45pm-7:00pm – break (everybody back to cafeteria)
  • 7:00pm-7:45pm – Castro D’Addona (movement 1) with soloist Adam Eccleston
  • 7:45pm-8:30pm – Brahms, movement 4
  • 8:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Concerto Competition registration deadline is tomorrow! Videos are due Friday.

The deadline for pre-approval of repertoire (by me), registration form and teacher approval form is TOMORROW (Wednesday, October 8). This webpage on our website has all you need to know about our Concerto Competition. I hope many of you will participate. Video entries are due Friday, October 10, and the live final round is October 24.

MYS SYMPHONY Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

There are a few adjustments to our part assignments/seating rosters this week. Please double-check your sections. These changes are due to attendance and/or planned absences. Even if absences are due to sickness or other conflicts, adjustments are made to ensure balanced sections and confident leadership. Thanks for your understanding.

Registration for YMA opens on Saturday 10/11

If you’re interested in going to YMA this summer, early registration is encouraged. 2026 YMA registration opens on Saturday, October 11 at 9am. There’s financial aid available for qualifying families. Registration must be submitted by a legal parent or guardian. More info on their website here.

PDF Practice Parts

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “S.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Recruit for MYS

If you have friends at school who would enjoy playing with us, send me their name and email and I’m happy to reach out. Or, you could give them my email. Right now, in this orchestra, we could use more percussionists, french horns and one trombone. Concert Orchestra has openings too.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand on Sunday)

Dr. G.

Adam Eccleston

CONCERT Orchestra Notes for 10/12/25

Posted on by mys-staff

Hi everyone,

Thanks for a very productive rehearsal on 10/5. I’m feeling good about our progress. Thank you for your practicing and preparation. I know it requires a significant amount of planning, time management and discipline (all excellent skills to develop).

Thank you also to all family members and teachers who support our students. They (and we) couldn’t do it without you.

Please see below for a recap of 10/5 and our rehearsal plan for 10/12.

Thanks!

Dr. G.

Rehearsal Recap – 10/5/25

  • First half of rehearsal: Strings worked with Casey, brass with Adam, double reeds with Marty, clarinets with Lisa and flutes with Robert. We all focused on the Smyth Symphony, which gets better every week.
  • Second half of rehearsal: we spent the entirety of the tutti portion of rehearsal on Smyth. We played through the full movement first (with some necessary stops), and then did detailed work from the beginning to letter M (coda). Please remember to practice with a metronome. Our tempo main tempo for this piece is dotted quarter = 122. The tempo of the coda is dotted quarter = 120.

Please watch this short video about Dame Ethel Smyth. You may also learn more about her on this website.

Rehearsal Plan – 10/12/25

Please arrive by 1:45pm. We can always use extra hands to help set up the room if you are able to get there closer to 1:30pm. I will arrive right at 1:30pm to open the space.

  • 1:45pm – EVERYBODY SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • 2:00pm-3:15pm:
    • All strings with Casey in the Cafeteria – Smyth (detailed work: K to end), Brahms as needed.
    • All woodwinds and brass with Adam in the Pavilion – Smyth (detailed work: D to G), Brahms as needed.
  • 3:15pm-3:30pm – break (everyone back to cafeteria)
  • 3:30pm-4:00pm – Brahms: whole piece
  • 4:00pm-4:30pm – Smyth: whole piece
  • 4:30pm-5:00pm – Holst: Jupiter: beginning to No. 5

Jupiter from The Planets by Gustav Holst.

We’ll bring hard copies of the Jupiter parts this coming Sunday. For the time being, you can access practice PDFs here. Note: these PDFs are of the entire Planets suite. At this point, we’re only planning to play Jupiter.

MYS CONCERT Part Assignments, Orchestra Schedule, Repertoire, Audio Reference, etc…

  • There are a few adjustments to our part assignments/seating rosters this week. Please double-check your sections. These changes are due to attendance. Even if absences are due to sickness or other conflicts, adjustments are made to ensure balanced sections and confident leadership. Thanks for your understanding.
  • I’ve added a couple of recordings of Jupiter to our YouTube playlist. Check them out, add them to your regular listening, and feel free to find your own favorite recordings. Find the link on the sidebar of this blog.

Registration for YMA opens on Saturday 10/11

If you’re interested in going to YMA this summer, early registration is encouraged. 2026 YMA registration opens on Saturday, October 11 at 9am. There’s financial aid available for qualifying families. Registration must be submitted by a legal parent or guardian. More info on their website here.

Find PDF Practice Parts at the MYS Online Music Library

If you lose your part, or need to access a digital copy for any reason, you can find one in our Online Music Library. Look for the button “C.O. Music Library” on the sidebar or the bottom of this blog page. The password is playmys.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability on Monday afternoons for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be in person at my home studio in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (I may also be available for private coaching sessions for other instruments, but my specific instrumental training is upper strings.) Shoot me an e-mail if you’re interested for more details.

Happy practicing,
(and don’t forget to bring a music stand)

Dr. G.

Dame Ethel Smyth | photo credit unknown (found at https://www.ethelsmyth.org/)