Author: mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – September 29, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – September 29, 2026

Dear MYS Symphony Orchestra,

Great rehearsal on Sunday, 9/27. The 4th movement of Shostakovich got off to a good start, and it was good to do a little under-tempo work on Bernstein. Also, we had very productive string section coachings on Thursday, 9/24.

Please see below for a rehearsal recap, our plan for 10/4, and more.

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

6

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, September 27

  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-5:20pm: we started with an icebreaker activity – a central part of the work that we do at MYS is building community. I hope that you met some new people and that you will continue forming friendships that may last a lifetime!
    • 5:20pm-6:10pm: we worked on Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movement 4
      • We read through the entire movement (great job!) and then we worked from the beginning to around [108].
      • Please make sure that the first 3 bars of the poco a poco accelerando push forward significantly (from quarter = 88 to quarter = 104), and then it’s a long build to rehearsal no. [104] (quarter = 132)
    • 6:10pm-6:30pm: we worked on Bernstein’s Overture to Candide. Did some under-tempo work from the begininng to around [76].
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals
    • Strings with Tomás Cotik (Fellowship Room aka Basement aka Contrabassment) – movement 3 of Shostakovich
    • Woodwinds and brass with Adam Eccleston (Fireside Room) – movement 3 of Shostakovich

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, October 4

  • 4:45pm: arrival & check-in
  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-6:00pm: work on Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movement 3 (musicians who don’t play this movement are welcome to arrive at 5:45pm)
    • 6:00pm-6:30pm: work on Bernstein’s Overture to Candide
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: brass coaching by sections – spots in all movements (coaches’ choice)
    • Horns in Room 206 (2nd floor) with Kim Minson
    • Trumpets in Jazz Room (basement level) with Elizabeth Sotelo
    • Low brass in 108 (1st floor) with JáTtik Clark
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: percussion sectional in room 108 of Candide, led by Evan.
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals including brass coaching by sections
    • Strings with Tomás Cotik (Fellowship Room aka Basement aka Contrabassment) – movement 2 of Shostakovich
    • Woodwinds with Jeff Garza (Fireside Room) – movement 2 of Shostakovich

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

Audio/Video Reference Playlist

I’ve created a YouTube playlist that you can use as a resource to listen to our repertoire. This playlist is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device).

Please use it! Or even better: use it and find even more recordings by different orchestras and conductors. The more you listen to our repertoire, the better you’ll understand the big picture of the music.

MYS Online Music Library

All parts are available on our website as PDF files. Please go to our Online Music Library. It is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device). The password is playmys.

This is useful if you lose your hard copies and need to print fresh ones at home, or if you want to use a digital device (like an iPad with a Bluetooth page turning pedal).

2026-2027 Concerto Competition

Symphony Orchestra musicians are eligible to enter our Concerto Competition. All information can be found on this page. Below are important dates to keep in mind (these are also on our Season Schedule):

  • November 20: deadline to have repertoire pre-approved by Dr. G.
  • November 27: registration and teacher approval forms due
  • December 4: audition videos due
  • December 8: finalists announced
  • January 8: live, in-person finals, open to the public

2026-2027 Repertoire

You can find the latest draft of our season repertoire on the sidebar of this page (or bottom of the page if you’re on a mobile device). Here’s a direct link for your convenience.

The repertoire might still change, especially as we plan for our Japan tour on June of 2027. Thanks to those of you who sent me repertoire suggestions.

Bring your friends to 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 violas, basses, clarinets and percussion.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be at MYS, 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,

Dr. G.

MYS Musicians in downtown Portland | August 30, 2026 | photo by Sheepscot Creative

CONCERT Orchestra Notes – September 29, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

CONCERT Orchestra Notes – September 29, 2026

Dear Concert Orchestra,

I thought we had a great rehearsal on Sunday, September 27. Our selections from Bizet’s Carmen Suites are coming along nicely. Thank you for your continued practicing at home.

A reminder and heads up that this Thursday (10/1) is our fall term string coachings date with Oregon Symphony musicians. Arrive at 6:45pm for a 7pm start. We go until 8:30pm. Only string players are required. Brass and woodwinds will have their fall coachings during regular Sunday rehearsal times.

This coming Sunday, we’ll focus on the two movements we haven’t worked on yet: Intermezzo and Chanson du Toréador.

Please see below for more details.

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

6

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, September 27

  • 5:15pm-6:30pm: sectionals – Strings worked with Vijeta Sathyaraj and Woodwinds & Brass worked with Adam Eccleston. We focused on Prelude & Aragonaise.
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: full orchestra rehearsal with RGR
    • Prelude & Aragonaise: I led an initial read-through and did some light work on both of these movements. Felipe Araya conducted, with both me and Felipe giving input as we worked through both movements.
    • Les Toréadors: we played through most of this movement, with an emphasis on keeping tempo and exaggerating dynamic contrast. Please remember to practice this movement with a metronome (quarter note = 126).
    • Danse Bohème: we worked backwards (and mostly under tempo) from the end. This movement was in better shape this week!

STRING COACHINGS – Thursday, October 1

  • 6:45pm: arrival and check-in
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: string coachings
    • Spots in all movements of Bizet’s Carmen
      • Violin 1 with Aidan Ip @ Fireside Room
      • Violin 2 with Eri Ishigaki @ Contrabassment
      • Viola with Raúl Gómez-Rojas @ Jazz Room (pls include mov. 1 #15)
      • Cellos with Karen Shulz-Harmon @ Performance Hall
      • Basses with Mariya-Andoniya Andonova @ Room 108

CONCERT ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, October 4

  • 5:00pm: arrival & check-in
    • Sign in at the front desk and head to your sectional rooms.
  • 5:15pm-6:30pm: brass coachings – work on most relevant passages from all movements.
    • Horns in Room 206 (2nd floor)
    • Trumpets and trombone in Jazz Room (basement level)
  • 5:15pm-6:30pm: sectionals – work on Intermezzo & Chanson du Toréador.
    • Strings with Vijeta Sathyaraj @ Contrabassment.
    • Woodwinds with Robert Wakeley @ Fireside Room.
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: full orchestra rehearsal with RGR
    • 7pm-8pm: Intermezzo & Chanson du Toréador.
    • 8pm-8:30pm: revisit spots in Prelude, Aragonaise & Danse Bohéme.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

Audio/Video Reference Playlist

I’ve created a YouTube playlist that you can use as a resource to listen to our repertoire. This playlist is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device).

Please use it! Or even better: use it and find even more recordings by different orchestras and conductors. The more you listen to our repertoire, the better you’ll understand the big picture of the music.

MYS Online Music Library

All parts are available on our website as PDF files. Please go to our Online Music Library. It is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device). The password is playmys.

This is useful if you lose your hard copies and need to print fresh ones at home, or if you want to use a digital device (like an iPad with a Bluetooth page turning pedal).

Bring your friends to 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 violas, basses, brass and percussion.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be at MYS, 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!

Dr. G.

MYS Musicians saying YAY! | 8/30/26 | Photo by Sheepscot Creative

CONCERT Orchestra Notes – September 22, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

CONCERT Orchestra Notes – September 22, 2026

Hi everyone,

Thank you for another productive rehearsal on Sunday, September 20. Please remember that it is CRUCIAL that you practice your parts each week at home and with your private teacher. Use my rehearsal notes to plan strategically.

Also, when you arrive on Sunday for sectionals, please go directly to your sectional rooms (Contrabassment for strings and Fireside Room for woodwinds & brass). Your sign-in sheets will be there.

Please read on!

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

7

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, September 20

  • 5:15pm-6:30pm: sectionals – Strings worked with Vijeta and Woodwinds & Brass worked with Kim. We focused on Danse Bohème primarily.
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: full orchestra rehearsal with RGR
    • Les Toréadors: we reviewed 4 bars before [B] and 8 bars before [E], and played a bit of the main theme closer to tempo.
    • Habanera: I explained the fermata 3 after [D] and 2 before the end, and we practiced both spots a bit.
    • Danse Bohème: we worked through the entire movement. This movement was quite rough, despite me having sent my rehearsal plan last week, and your work in sectionals.
  • Please practice at home!

CONCERT ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, September 27

  • 5:00pm: arrival & check-in
    • Please go directly to your sectional rooms. The sign-in sheets will be in each room (Contrabassment and Fireside Room).
  • 5:15pm-6:30pm: sectionals – work on Prelude, Aragonaise, and if there’s extra time revisit spots in Danse Bohéme.
    • Strings with Vijeta Sathyaraj @ Contrabassment.
    • Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion with Adam Eccleston @ Fireside Room.
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: full orchestra rehearsal with RGR
    • 7pm-8pm: Prelude & Aragonaise
    • 8pm-8:30pm: revisit spots in Les Toréadors, Habanera and Danse Bohéme.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

Audio/Video Reference Playlist

I’ve created a YouTube playlist that you can use as a resource to listen to our repertoire. This playlist is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device).

Please use it! Or even better: use it and find even more recordings by different orchestras and conductors. The more you listen to our repertoire, the better you’ll understand the big picture of the music.

MYS Online Music Library

All parts are available on our website as PDF files. Please go to our Online Music Library. It is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device). The password is playmys.

This is useful if you lose your hard copies and need to print fresh ones at home, or if you want to use a digital device (like an iPad with a Bluetooth page turning pedal).

Bring your friends to 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 violas, basses, brass and percussion.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be at MYS, 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!

Dr. G.

A behind-the-scenes picture of the MYS photo shoot back in late August. We’ll have the official photos soon! | 8/30/26 | Photo by MYS

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – September 22, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – September 22, 2026

Dear MYS Symphony Orchestra,

Thank you for a productive first tutti rehearsal on Sunday, September 20. It was great to have everybody in the room and play through the first movement of Shostakovich and Bernstein’s Candide Overture.

Please see below for a rehearsal recap, Thursday evening string sectionals, and plans for Sunday, September 27.

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

7

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, September 20

  • 5:00pm-6:10pm: Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, movement 1.
    • We read through the entire first movement. Good work! After that, we spent some time rehearsing:
      • [32] to [44]
      • played again (under tempo and with softer dynamics) from [22] to about [32]
  • 6:10pm-6:30pm: Bernstein Overture to Candide
    • We watched/listened to a video of Leonard Bernstein conducting a live performance of the piece, with the London Symphony Orchestra in 1989.
    • We then played a “stumble-through” of the whole piece, mostly in tempo. It’s fast!!!
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: Sectionals on movement 4 of the Shostakovich Symphony:
    • Strings @ Contrabassment with Tomás Cotik.
    • Woodwinds & brass @ Fireside Room with James Shields.

STRING COACHINGS – Thursday, September 24

  • 6:45pm: arrival and check-in
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: string coachings
    • Candide Overture & Shostakovich spots (movs. 1, 2 & 4)
      • Violin 1 with Erin Furbee @ Fireside Room
      • Violin 2 with Adam Lamotte @ Contrabassment
      • Viola with Charles Noble @ Jazz Room (pls include mov. 1 #15)
      • Cellos with Marilyn de Oliveira @ Performance Hall
      • Basses with Jason Schooler @ Room 108 (206 also available if preferred)

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, September 27

  • 4:45pm: arrival & check-in
  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-5:20pm: icebreaker activity
    • 5:20pm-6:10pm: work on Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movement 4
      • NOTE: tempi in this movement will be the ones printed. The accelerando poco a poco in m. 3 bars before [98] is a long one, culminating at the Allegro at [104]. The various metronome markings along the way are “checkpoints” as we get faster VERY GRADUALLY.
    • 6:10pm-6:30pm: work on Bernstein’s Overture to Candide
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals including brass coaching by sections
    • Strings with Tomás Cotik (Fellowship Room aka Basement aka Contrabassment) – movement 3 of Shostakovich
    • Woodwinds and brass with Adam Eccleston (Fireside Room) – movement 3 of Shostakovich

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

Audio/Video Reference Playlist

I’ve created a YouTube playlist that you can use as a resource to listen to our repertoire. This playlist is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device).

Please use it! Or even better: use it and find even more recordings by different orchestras and conductors. The more you listen to our repertoire, the better you’ll understand the big picture of the music.

MYS Online Music Library

All parts are available on our website as PDF files. Please go to our Online Music Library. It is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device). The password is playmys.

This is useful if you lose your hard copies and need to print fresh ones at home, or if you want to use a digital device (like an iPad with a Bluetooth page turning pedal).

2026-2027 Concerto Competition

Symphony Orchestra musicians are eligible to enter our Concerto Competition. All information can be found on this page. Below are important dates to keep in mind (these are also on our Season Schedule):

  • November 20: deadline to have repertoire pre-approved by Dr. G.
  • November 27: registration and teacher approval forms due
  • December 4: audition videos due
  • December 8: finalists announced
  • January 8: live, in-person finals, open to the public

2026-2027 Repertoire

You can find the latest draft of our season repertoire on the sidebar of this page (or bottom of the page if you’re on a mobile device). Here’s a direct link for your convenience.

The repertoire might still change, especially as we plan for our Japan tour on June of 2027. Thanks to those of you who sent me repertoire suggestions.

Bring your friends to 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 violas, basses, clarinets and percussion.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be at MYS, 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,

Dr. G.

Orchestra Nova Northwest had a full week of rehearsals at MYS. It’s wonderful to be able to host other local performing arts organizations at our new space | 9/19/26 | Photo by MYS

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – September 15, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – September 15, 2026

Hi all,

Great to see you on Sunday. I’m excited for our first tutti rehearsal coming up this week.

Please remember to plan your practicing strategically so that you are fully prepared for each rehearsal. Also, please write your name on your sheet music!! I forgot to remind you to do this on Sunday.

Keep an eye out for Mark’s Weekly Announcements tomorrow (Wednesday).

Finally, please see below for important rehearsal notes.

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

8

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, September 13

  • We spent the first portion of rehearsal time together with Concert Orchestra musicians in our Performance Hall. We introduced our Group Managers and Coaches, and talked about expectations for the season, including:
    • Arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of rehearsal.
    • Sign in upon arrival by initialing next to your name on the sign-in sheet.
    • Add all concerts and rehearsals to your calendars, including additional rehearsals the few days before concerts, and any Thursday evening rehearsals for strings (check the Season Calendar linked on the side bar – or at the bottom of the page if you are on a mobile device).
    • Please communicate absences in advance, and keep in mind that the maximum number of absences allowed per term is three. (That said, ideally, you’ll have zero absences).
    • Remember that MYS is NOT a hyper-competitive environment. Rather, it is a nurturing environment where STUDENTS SUPPORT EACH OTHER AND INSPIRE ONE ANOTHER. That said, there is a clear expectation of being prepared for each rehearsal (meaning you have to practice and learn your part at home and with your private teacher).
    • Please always bring a pencil (and use it!), a full spill-proof water bottle and a music stand.
  • After our welcoming meeting, we watched the documentary on Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5 from the Keeping Score series, by Michael Tilson Thomas with the San Francisco Symphony. I’ve added this documentary to our Audio/Video Reference Playlist, which is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom of the page if you are on a mobile device.)
  • After the break, we split into sectionals. Everybody worked on movement 1 of the symphony:
    • Strings went downstairs to the Contrabassment and worked with Tomás Cotik.
    • Woodwinds, brass and percussion went to the Fireside Room and worked with Adam Eccleston.

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, September 20

  • 4:45pm: arrival & check-in
  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-6:10pm: work on Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movement 1
    • 6:10pm-6:30pm: read Bernstein’s Overture to Candide (!!)
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals on: Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movement 4
    • NOTE: tempi in this movement will be the ones printed. The accelerando poco a poco in m. 3 bars before [98] is a long one, culminating at the Allegro at [104]. The various metronome markings along the way are “checkpoints” as we get faster VERY GRADUALLY.
      • Strings with Tomás Cotik (Fellowship Room aka Basement aka Contrabassment)
      • Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion with James Shields (Fireside Room)

Audio/Video Reference Playlist

I’ve created a YouTube playlist that you can use as a resource to listen to our repertoire. This playlist is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device).

Please use it! Or even better: use it and find even more recordings by different orchestras and conductors. The more you listen to our repertoire, the better you’ll understand the big picture of the music.

MYS Online Music Library

All parts are available on our website as PDF files. Please go to our Online Music Library. It is linked on the side bar of this page (or at the bottom if you’re on a mobile device). The password is playmys.

This is useful if you lose your hard copies and need to print fresh ones at home, or if you want to use a digital device (like an iPad with a Bluetooth page turning pedal).

2026-2027 Concerto Competition

Symphony Orchestra musicians are eligible to enter our Concerto Competition. All information can be found on this page. Below are important dates to keep in mind (these are also on our Season Schedule):

  • November 20: deadline to have repertoire pre-approved by Dr. G.
  • November 27: registration and teacher approval forms due
  • December 4: audition videos due
  • December 8: finalists announced
  • January 8: live, in-person finals, open to the public

2026-2027 Repertoire

You can find the latest draft of our season repertoire on the sidebar of this page (or bottom of the page if you’re on a mobile device). Here’s a direct link for your convenience.

The repertoire might still change, especially as we plan for our Japan tour on June of 2027. Thanks to those of you who sent me repertoire suggestions.

Bring your friends to 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 violas, basses, clarinets and percussion.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be at MYS, 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,

Dr. G.

Dr. Ed Protzman working with our Concert Band | 9/12/26 | Photo by MYS

CONCERT Orchestra Notes – September 8, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

CONCERT Orchestra Notes – September 8, 2026

Hi all,

I hope you had a restful Labor Day weekend. Our first rehearsal of the year is this Sunday! (September 13). We’re excited to see you very soon.

Thank you to those of you who submitted optional leadership auditions. It was wonderful to hear you play.

Please read this entire post carefully, and see you soon!

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

9

CONCERT ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, September 13

  • 5:00pm: arrival & check-in at MYS (3880 SE Brooklyn St.) (main sanctuary door)
  • 5:00-5:15pm: make a name tag, find your folder, double-check part assignments, grab your sheet music, write your name on your sheet music
  • 5:15pm-5:30pm: welcoming remarks (together with Symphony Orchestra musicians)
  • 5:30pm-6:30pm: sectionals on Bizet’s Carmen Suites: movements Habanera and Les Toréadors (not to be confused with Chanson du Toréador)
    • Strings with Vijeta Sathyaraj (Fellowship Room aka Basement aka Contrabassment)
    • Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion with Adam Eccleston (Fireside Room)
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: full orchestra rehearsal with Dr. G on Habanera and Les Toréadors.

Roster & Part Assignments

Part assignments for Bizet’s Selections from Carmen Suites No. 1 and No. 2 have been posted. Part assignments were made based on optional leadership auditions, performance in past seasons with MYS and new student auditions. These assignments are always subject to change. My part assignments are not rankings. I rotate positions of leadership and try to create balanced sections.

If you’re unhappy with your part assignment, you can always show me your progress at the next set of optional leadership auditions (due October 27 for Winter part assignments).

You can find our Fall Part Assignments by clicking on the button on the sidebar of this page (or at the bottom of the page if you are on a mobile device.) The first page contains alphabetical listings of each section. Page 2 contains part assignments.

PLEASE let me know if you spot any obvious errors or accidental omissions.

Download PDF Parts to practice before Sunday

After consulting the Part Assignments document, please navigate to our Online Music Library (the password is playmys), and find PDF practice parts. Make sure to start practicing the two movements I listed above (Habanera and Les Toréadors) before rehearsal this Sunday.

If you have a digital tablet and a page-turning pedal, you’re welcome to use them for rehearsals and concerts. However, please make sure to ALSO have your paper parts as a back-up. You never know when technology might fail you. And it tends to fail in the worst possible moments :-/

Please remember that it is your responsibility to show up well-prepared to every rehearsal. This means that you need to practice at home, listen to recordings, and get to know the music as best as you can.

.

The information below is from my previous post. I’m leaving it here for your convenience. It’s all important information relevant to this weekend and the whole year:

.

2026-2027 Season Calendar

You can always access our season calendar by clicking on the button on the sidebar of any of these blog posts (or at the bottom of the page if you are on a mobile device).

PLEASE add every single rehearsal and performance to your calendars ASAP.

Things to note:

  • Concert Orchestra’s new rehearsal time is 5:15pm-8:30pm. This will allow more time for weekly sectionals and a longer break.
  • Pay special attention to our PRE-CONCERT REHEARSALS, which take place the day before each concert.
  • String sections will have coachings on one Thursday evening each term. 10/1, 12/17 and 4/8.
  • Please prioritize our rehearsals as you plan for other conflicting activities. Communicate your conflicts to your other activities as early as possible.
  • There is a maximum of 3 allowed absences per term. If you know you’ll have more than 3 planned absences, please reach out to me directly ASAP.

Bring your friends to 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 violas, basses, clarinets and percussion.

Availability for private lessons

I don’t take long-term regular private students, but this season I will have some availability for “one-off” violin, viola or conducting lessons. The lessons can be at the new MYS facility, 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,

Dr. G.

Our team has been hard at work putting the final touches on our rehearsal space. The “Fellowship Hall” aka the Contrabassment has a shuffleboard court. Does anybody know how to play? | 9/8/26

Summer Volunteer Opportunity: “The Classical Northwest”

Posted on by mys-staff

Summer Volunteer Opportunity: “The Classical Northwest”

MYS alum Amir Avsker is organizing a new performance opportunity for local musicians this summer. From Amir:

“The Classical Northwest is a new music festival that will take place in Portland during the first week of August. The festival will include three orchestra concerts, masterclasses, and opportunities to put together and perform your own chamber music programs. Participation in the festival is free and will allow you to work with some of the most respected professionals in the region.”

A concert including Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 is scheduled for Sunday, August 2nd at 7pm at The Reser. Rehearsals 5:30pm-8:30pm on July 20, 23, 27 & 30. Dress rehearsal on Friday 7/31 at 2pm. Soundcheck on Sunday 8/2 at 3pm and concert at 7pm.

I will be playing principal viola for this, and I hope many of you will join. It should be fun. If you have any questions, please contact Amir directly: amir.avsker@gmail.com

READING SESSION ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17

From Amir:

The readings will include Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, Elgar’s Cello Concerto, Brahms’s Tragic Overture, and Haydn’s Farewell Symphony, as well as two pieces premiered by MYS through the Authentic Voice Commission and several other works.

This is meant to be a fun and casual reading. No need to heavily prepare; just show up and enjoy playing this wonderful music!

Details

Location: Concert School of Music (9150 SW Pioneer Ct H, Wilsonville, OR 97070)

11:00am-1:00pm
Mozart – Piano Concerto No. 7
Haydn – Symphony No. 45 “Farewell”

2:00-4:30pm
Elaina Stuppler – Locks, Lights, Out of Sight
Brahms – Tragic Overture
Amir Avsker – Freedom Overture
Steven James – Barbarisms

6:00-8:30pm
Verdi – Prelude to Act I of La Traviata
Elgar – Cello Concerto
Bruch – Kol Nidrei
Beethoven – Symphony No. 5

Please contact Amir directly if you’re interested in participating: amir.avsker@gmail.com

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – Sunday, June 7

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – Sunday, June 7

Dear MYS Symphony Orchestra,

Thanks for a productive rehearsal on May 31st. It was great to see you all again after our Memorial Day weekend break.

Concert week is here!!! I’m excited to close out this great season with our biggest concert of the year.

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

1!!

Recap – Sunday, May 24, 2026

  • 3:30pm-5:00pm: Beethoven coachings:
    • 1st violins (mov 3, with Tomás Cotik)
    • cellos/basses (mov 4 recitativos with RGR)

  • 5:30pm-7:05pm:
    • Beethoven, mov. 4
  • break
  • 7:05pm-8:30pm:
    • Beethoven, movs. 2, 3 and a bit of 1

Rehearsal plan for Concert Week (June 7 – June 14)

I made a separate post with our rehearsal plans for the week. You can find it here.

Part Assignments, PDFs and audio reference for OREGON SYMPHONY session on June 9

  • Part assignments: see the last page of this PDF.
  • PDF parts available here. We’ll bring hard copies on Sunday, 6/7
  • Audio reference available here.
  • Times:
    • 10am-12:30pm – MYS-only rehearsal
    • 12:30pm-2:00pm – lunch (please bring lunch from home, or be sure to be back on time if you leave campus)
    • 2:00pm-4:30pm – session with OS musicians

You can also find other important information on the side bar of this webpage (or bottom of the page if you’re on a mobile device).

Concert Call Sheet

Sunday 6/14 – call sheet

REGISTER for next season before our 6/14 concert

IT’S TIME TO REGISTER FOR NEXT SEASON. If you register before our last concert, you will not need to audition. If you miss this deadline of June 14, you will have to take a regular MYS audition to return to your spot in the group.

Take the End-of-the-Season Survey

Every spring we gather feedback to help shape the growth of MYS. This survey is a great way to impact next year’s program.

Every parent/guardian and student is encouraged to submit the survey.

We want to hear about your experience in your ensemble(s). How was your conductor? How was the amount and level of the music you studied? How did your ensemble help you toward your musical goals?

This survey also asks about tuition, rehearsal and concert venues, music theory, and the highlight of your year.

The survey closes on Thursday, June 18. Click here to take the survey.

Summer Volunteer Opportunity: “The Classical Northwest”

MYS alum Amir Avsker is organizing a new performance opportunity for local musicians this summer. From Amir:

“The Classical Northwest is a new music festival that will take place in Portland during the first week of August. The festival will include three orchestra concerts, masterclasses, and opportunities to put together and perform your own chamber music programs. Participation in the festival is free and will allow you to work with some of the most respected professionals in the region.”

A concert including Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 is scheduled for Sunday, August 2nd at 7pm at The Reser. Rehearsals 5:30pm-8:30pm on July 20, 23, 27 & 30. Dress rehearsal on Friday 7/31 at 2pm. Soundcheck on Sunday 8/2 at 3pm and concert at 7pm.

I will be playing principal viola for this, and I hope many of you will join. It should be fun. If you have any questions, please contact Amir directly: amir.avsker@gmail.com

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.

Audition prep/private lessons during the summer

I will have a bit more bandwidth during the summer to teach private lessons. Lessons can be in person at the MYS building in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (My instruments are violin and viola, but I may also be available for coaching sessions for other instruments). 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 Musicians | Arlene Schnitzer Concert Call | November, 2025 | Photo by Richard Kolbell

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – Rehearsal Plan for Final Week (June 7 – June 14) – UPDATED 6/12/26

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – Rehearsal Plan for Final Week (June 7 – June 14) – UPDATED 6/12/26

SUBJECT TO CHANGE! – please check regularly

Sunday, June 7, 2026

  • 5:30pm-6:15pm: HEADLINES
  • 6:15pm-7:00pm: Beethoven, Mov 4 (spots)
  • 7:00pm-7:15pm: break
  • 7:15pm-7:45pm: Beethoven, Mov 1
  • 7:45pm-8:30pm: Tchaikovsky Rococo

Tuesday, June 9, 2026

(only for musicians who confirmed their participation. Roster is here; see page 4)

Special session with Oregon Symphony musicians – Grace Miedziak’s piece Peculiarities (aka “45th Parallel“).

  • 10am-12:30pm – MYS-only rehearsal
  • 12:30pm-2:00pm – lunch (please bring lunch from home, or be sure to be back on time if you leave campus)
  • 2:00pm-4:30pm – session with OS musicians

Thursday, June 11, 2026

  • 7:00pm-7:20pm: HEADLINES
  • 7:20pm-8:00pm: Beethoven, Mov 4 & 2
  • 8:00pm-8:10pm: break
  • 8:10pm-9:30pm: Beethoven, movs 1 & 3

Friday, June 12, 2026

  • 6:30pm: arrival – please SIGN IN.
  • 7:00pm-8:00pm: Beethoven, Mov 4 (with choir and soloists)
  • 8:00pm-8:10pm: break
  • 8:10pm-9:00pm: Beethoven, movs 3, 1, 2
  • 9:00pm-9:30pm: Tchaikovsky
  • 9:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Saturday, June 13, 2026

  • 6:30pm: arrival – please SIGN IN.
  • REHEARSAL IN CONCERT ORDER (times approximate)
    • 7:00pm-7:15pm: HEADLINES
    • 7:15pm-7:45pm: Tchaikovsky Rococo
    • 7:45pm-8:30pm: Beethoven, movs 1-3
    • 8:30pm-8:45pm: break
    • 8:45pm-9:30pm: Beethoven, mov 4
  • 9:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Sunday, June 14, 2026

Call Sheet with all information is here.

Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall | Photo by P5

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – Sunday, May 31

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – Sunday, May 31

Dear MYS Symphony Orchestra,

I look forward to seeing you again this Sunday. We’ll cover the entire Beethoven Symphony. It will be an important rehearsal to take stock of where we are as we approach the home stretch of the season.

Beethoven 1st violins and cellos/basses: please remember your extra coachings at 3:30pm.

Also, tonight (Tuesday, May 26), I’ll be conducting Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 (chamber orchestra version) with the 45th Parallel Universe Chamber Orchestra, made up of Oregon Symphony Musicians. MYS students (and their families!) get in for free. Just mention the “MYS family pass” at the door. 7:00pm at First United Methodist Church. More information here.

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

2!!

Recap – Sunday, May 24, 2026

  • no rehearsal (Memorial Day Weekend)

Plan for Sunday, May 31, 2026

  • 3:15pm: arrival for Beethoven 1st violins & cellos/basses
  • 3:30pm-5:00pm: Beethoven coachings:
    • 1st violins (mov 3, music room with Tomás Cotik)
    • cellos/basses (mov 4, cafeteria with RGR)
  • 5:15pm: arrival for everyone else – SIGN IN IN CAFETERIA.
  • 5:30pm-7:00pm:
    • Beethoven, mov. 4
    • Beethoven, mov. 3
  • 7:00pm-7:15pm: break
  • 7:15pm-8:30pm:
    • Beethoven, mov 2
    • Beethoven, mov 1
  • 8:30pm – help reset the room and make sure no doors are left propped open.

Part Assignments, PDFs and audio reference for OREGON SYMPHONY session on June 9

  • Part assignments: see the last page of this PDF.
  • PDF parts available here. We’ll bring hard copies this Sunday.
  • Audio reference available here.

You can also find other important information on the side bar of this webpage (or bottom of the page if you’re on a mobile device).

Weeknight Rehearsals & Concert Call Sheet

  • Thursday 6/11 – 7pm-9:30pm
  • Friday 6/12 – 7pm-9:30pm
  • Saturday 6/13 – 7pm-9:30pm
  • Sunday 6/14 – call sheet

Beethoven: violin 1 and cello/bass: Extra coaching on 5/31

Please add to your calendars. 1st violins and cello/bass sections: Sunday, May 31, 3:30pm-5:00pm.

  • 1st violins: 3rd movement (with Tomás Cotik)
  • Cello/bass: recitativos in 4th movement (with me)

RVSP to Oregon Symphony Collaboration on June 9

Most of you have already RSVP’d. Thank you. The rest of you, please fill out this form (we need to hear from everybody whether you can do it or not). Here’s the full information.

REGISTRATION is open for next season. Do it ASAP, please.

IT’S TIME TO REGISTER FOR NEXT SEASON. If you register before our last concert, you will not need to audition. If you miss this deadline of June 14, you will have to take a regular MYS audition to return to your spot in the group.

Take the End-of-the-Season Survey

Every spring we gather feedback to help shape the growth of MYS. This survey is a great way to impact next year’s program.

Every parent/guardian and student is encouraged to submit the survey.

We want to hear about your experience in your ensemble(s). How was your conductor? How was the amount and level of the music you studied? How did your ensemble help you toward your musical goals?

This survey also asks about tuition, rehearsal and concert venues, music theory, and the highlight of your year.

The survey closes on Thursday, June 18. Click here to take the survey.

Summer Volunteer Opportunity: “The Classical Northwest”

MYS alum Amir Avsker is organizing a new performance opportunity for local musicians this summer. From Amir:

“The Classical Northwest is a new music festival that will take place in Portland during the first week of August. The festival will include three orchestra concerts, masterclasses, and opportunities to put together and perform your own chamber music programs. Participation in the festival is free and will allow you to work with some of the most respected professionals in the region.”

A concert including Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 is scheduled for Sunday, August 2nd at 7pm at The Reser. Rehearsals 5:30pm-8:30pm on July 20, 23, 27 & 30. Dress rehearsal on Friday 7/31 at 2pm. Soundcheck on Sunday 8/2 at 3pm and concert at 7pm.

I will be playing principal viola for this, and I hope many of you will join. It should be fun. If you have any questions, please contact Amir directly: amir.avsker@gmail.com

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.

Audition prep/private lessons during the summer

I will have a bit more bandwidth during the summer to teach private lessons. Lessons can be in person at the MYS building in SE Portland, or via Zoom. (My instruments are violin and viola, but I may also be available for coaching sessions for other instruments). 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 Musicians | Keller Fountain | August, 2025 | Photo by Sheepscot Creative