Category: Symphony Orchestra

MYS Symphony Orchestra Posts

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – October 27, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – October 27, 2026

Dear MYS Symphony Orchestra,

Our concert will be in two weeks from this coming Sunday. Keep up the great work! Working with you each Sunday is the highlight of my week, and I’m grateful for your preparation, commitment and engagement.

Optional leadership auditions are due TODAY (Tuesday, 10/27).

If you enjoy the band Portugal. The Man, you might be interested in two shows with them and the Oregon Symphony that I’ll be conducting on November 11 and 12.

Please see below for a rehearsal recap, plans for 11/1, and more details.

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

2

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, October 25

  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • It was great to play through the entire Candide overture on Sunday 10/25, and work on the whole piece. Woodwinds (and tutti): make sure to practice the difficult transitional passages with a metronome and get them up to tempo.
    • We made another dent in the 4th movement of Shostakovich. That felt good. I was hoping to get to the end of the movement, but we ran out of time.
    • Our read-through of Skye’s piece led by Felipe was productive.
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals, woodwind coachings
    • Strings with Sam Ross (Music Director of Tilikum Chamber Orchestra & Grande Ronde Symphony Orchestra, MYS alum) @ Contrabassment – Candide and movement 2 of Shostakovich
    • Woodwinds and Brass with Jeff Garza (Principal Horn, Oregon Symphony) @ Fireside Room – Candide and movement 2 of Shostakovich.

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, November 1

  • 4:45pm: arrival & check-in
  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-5:30pm: Skye Neal’s Coalesce (with Felipe conducting) – (2nd bar of [O] to end)
    • 5:30pm-6:30pm: Movement 4 [117] to end & Movement 2 of Shostakovich
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals
    • Strings with Amanda Grimm (Principal Viola, Oregon Symphony) @ Contrabassment – Movement 3 of Shostakovich
    • Woodwinds and Brass with James Shields (Chatter PDX, former Principal Clarinet, Oregon Symphony) @ Fireside Room – Movement 1 of Shostakovich

Leadership Auditions due October 27 (tonight!)

Our optional leadership auditions are due October 27th, as per our season calendar. While these auditions are optional, I highly encourage everybody to submit one. It’s one of the most effective ways for you to show me your individual work and progress.

The list of excerpts and instructions have been posted here.

You can submit your audition on this form.

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 Symphony Orchestra | 10/18/26 | Photo by MYS

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – October 20, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – October 20, 2026

Dear MYS Symphony Orchestra,

I thought we had a great rehearsal on Sunday, October 11. We ended up spending most of our time on the first movement of Shostakovich, and didn’t get to Candide, but the work that we did felt solid and productive.

We are now less than a month away from the concert. We have, in fact, only 3 more weekend rehearsals left, plus our pre-concert rehearsals. Please continue practicing your individual parts mindfully and strategically!

Please see below for a rehearsal recap, plans for 10/25, and more details.

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

3

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, October 18

  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-5:10pm: Group photo 📸
    • 5:10pm-6:30pm: We spent most of our time on the 1st movement of Shostakovich (5pm-6:15-ish). We did detailed work on the whole movement. Towards the end, we read through movement 4: beginning to about [110]. We did just light work on movement 4.
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals, woodwind coachings
    • Strings worked with with Amanda Grimm (OS Principal Viola) @ Contrabassment on Shostakovich (all movements)
    • Woodwinds and Brass worked with James Shields @ Fireside Room on Shostakovich (all movements)

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, October 25

  • 4:45pm: arrival & check-in
  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-5:45pm: Candide
    • 5:45pm-6:10pm: Movement 4 of Shoskovich, [110] to end
    • 6:10pm-6:30pm: Skye Neal’s Coalesce (with Felipe conducting)
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals
    • Strings with Sam Ross (Music Director of Tilikum Chamber Orchestra & Grande Ronde Symphony Orchestra, MYS alum) @ Contrabassment – Candide (and movement 2 of Shostakovich if there’s time).
  • Woodwinds and Brass with Jeff Garza (Principal Horn, Oregon Symphony) @ Fireside Room – Candide (and movement 2 of Shostakovich if there’s time).

Leadership Auditions due October 27

This deadline is coming up! Our optional leadership auditions are due October 27th, as per our season calendar. While these auditions are optional, I highly encourage everybody to submit one. It’s one of the most effective ways for you to show me your individual work and progress.

The list of excerpts and instructions have been posted here.

You can submit your audition on this form.

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 Symphony Orchestra | 10/18/26 | Photo by MYS

Transition between rehearsals on Sundays: plan for hallway traffic and common areas

Posted on by mys-staff

Transition between rehearsals on Sundays: plan for hallway traffic and common areas

Hi everyone,

It’s been wonderful to rehearse in our new building on Sundays. Thank you for working with us as we continue getting to know our space and how we use it.

We’ve noticed that the transition time starting at 6:30pm presents certain challenges related to traffic and congestion in our hallways and common areas. With that in mind and everyone’s safety as a priority, we’d like to try a new plan for this transition starting this Sunday.

We’ll explain and remind everyone in person this Sunday, but for the time being, please read the plan below:

Everyone: Always fully pack up your things before moving through the halls. That includes:

  • Pack-up your instrument in its case
  • Put your music in your folder
  • Collapse your music stand

Concert Orchestra woodwinds and brass: when sectionals end at 6:30pm in the Fireside Room, take the south stairs [S100]—near exit closest to the Fireside Room—to the 2nd floor. Head to the 2nd Floor Landing just outside the Organ Loft. There’s a couch and chairs up there. Please wait there until 6:40pm to come down to the Performance Hall. This gives SO time to pack-up and exit. 

Concert Orchestra strings: fully pack up your belongings in the Contrabasement. Remain in the Contrabassment until 6:35pm. Then use the north exterior exit facing Brooklyn St. Use the concrete exterior stairs, take the sidewalk to the right, and re-enter the building through the north entrance by the percussion storage.

Symphony Orchestra: pack up at the end of tutti rehearsal (6:30pm) and proceed to your sectional rooms (strings go down to the Contrabasement and woodwinds/brass to the Fireside Room). Please don’t linger in the Performance Hall more than necessary. Concert Orchestra will be waiting to enter (upstairs and outside).

Thanks!

Mark and Dr. G.

Rescheduling Brass Coachings to manage high-decibel volumes vs. room sizes

Posted on by mys-staff

Rescheduling Brass Coachings to manage high-decibel volumes vs. room sizes

Dear Symphony and Concert Orchestra Brass Players and Families,

As you know, we invite brass professionals (primarily from the Oregon Symphony) once per term to work with each of our brass sections. We had our fall term brass coachings on Sunday, October 4th. On this day, we learned that even after adding acoustical panels to all of our smaller rooms, the high-decibel output of brass instruments is just too high for the size of those rooms.

With our students and coaches’ hearing and overall health in mind, we will move our winter and spring brass coachings to Thursday evenings from 7:00pm-8:30pm (one per term, on Thursday, January 14 and Thursday, May 6). Our brass sections will be able to use our larger spaces (Performance Hall, Contrabasement, Fireside Room and Jazz Room) for their coachings.

Also, we will split the time right down the middle. Students will work with coaches on their orchestra music for 45 minutes, and then they will regroup by instrument (Concert Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra students of the same instrument together) to work in a studio-class setting with each coach. This will allow for instrument-specific training (technique, ensemble skills, etc).

I’ve updated the PDFs linked on the sidebar of this page and the QR codes in the Performance Hall. Please update your calendars, and feel free to reach out with any questions.

Thanks,

Dr. G.

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – October 13, 2026

Posted on by mys-staff

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – October 13, 2026

Dear MYS Symphony Orchestra,

Thank you for your work in rehearsal on Sunday, October 11.

Please remember to always sign in when you arrive for rehearsal. A bunch of you were there on Sunday, but you’re marked on our attendance sheet as absent because you didn’t sign in.

On that note, please remember that attendance is crucial for a successful rehearsal process leading up to each of our concerts. A few people have been out sick, which is understandable and expected (thanks for staying home if you might be contagious.) Outside of illness, please prioritize rehearsals and make sure you have our upcoming pre-concert rehearsals on your calendar! As I’ve said before, I’d like to avoid people coming to me or emailing me the week before the concert to tell me they can’t come to these rehearsals. Also, please remember to arrive by 4:45pm, for an on-time 5pm downbeat.

Please practice with a metronome! Start at slower tempos and make sure you can play your part accurately and comfortably. Then, increase the tempo very gradually to gain facility. See below under “HOW TO PRACTICE WITH A METRONOME.”

Also, a reminder that this coming Sunday (10/18) is our concert dress check and ensemble photo. Please come in concert dress (all black), and make sure a Group Manager OKs your attire.

Finally, our concert is in just about a month from today. The days are going to FLY BY, so let’s make sure everyone’s individual parts are fully learned by now, so we can spend the next 4 weeks bringing our ensemble playing to the highest possible level.

Please see below for a rehearsal recap, plans for 10/18, and more details.

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

4

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, October 11

  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-5:50pm: we read through Skye Neal’s Coalesce. Thanks for a great read-through of this piece. Skye will send us final PDFs this week, and we’ll have hard copies in rehearsal on Sunday.
    • 5:50pm-6:15pm: we worked on Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movement 2
    • 6:15pm-6:30pm: we worked a bit on Bernstein’s Overture to Candide. Mostly m. 207 to the end, under tempo. We need to make sure to clean up m.255-m.271. Please practice with a metronome.
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals, woodwind coachings
    • Strings with Tomás Cotik @ Contrabassment – movement 1 of Shostakovich and Candide
    • Woodwinds worked with coaches from the OS on select spots in Shostakovich and general ensemble playing skills.
    • Brass worked with Kim Minson (OS) on on select spots in Shostakovich and general ensemble playing skills.

HOW TO PRACTICE WITH A METRONOME

Metronome practice is crucially important. You should be practicing with a metronome regularly (i.e. every day).

A basic strategy for metronome practice is the following:

  1. Select a specific passage you want to work on (not too short, not too long).
  2. Make sure you have good fingerings/bowings, plans for articulation, dynamics, etc.
  3. Select a VERY slow tempo, at which you can play the passage very accurately and comfortably, with polish and ease, and without stopping.
  4. Repeat a few times (MINDFULLY!! – this means you’ll be trying as best as you can to focus on what you’re doing. Your mind might wander, and that’s OK. Bring your focus back to the music each time it happens. DO NOT practice while watching videos, etc).
  5. If you’re able to play the passage 2 or 3 times (accurately, comfortably, with polish and ease, without mistakes, and without stopping), increase the metronome tempo by 1 o 2 clicks. Go back to step 4, and repeat until you reach performance tempo.

Example with Bernstein’s Candide:

Select your passage (e.g. woodwinds m.64 to m.83; or strings m.260 to m.271). Start slow (in 4, [eight note = 120]). Increase the metronome tempo gradually until you might want to switch to “in 2.” For example, once you get to eight note = 160, switch to [half note = 55], and continue increasing the tempo until you reach performance tempo.

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, October 18

  • 4:45pm: arrival & check-in – WEAR YOUR CONCERT CLOTHES!
  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-5:10pm: Group photo 📸
    • 5:10pm-6:10pm: Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movements 1 and 4
    • 6:10pm-6:30pm: work on Bernstein’s Overture to Candide
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals
    • Strings with Amanda Grimm (OS Principal Viola) @ Contrabassment – Shostakovich – all movements (coach’s choice)
    • Woodwinds and Brass with James Shields @ Fireside Room – Shostakovich – all movements (coach’s choice)

Leadership Auditions due October 27

Our optional leadership auditions are due October 27th, as per our season calendar. While these auditions are optional, I highly encourage everybody to submit one. It’s one of the most effective ways for you to show me your individual work and progress.

The list of excerpts and instructions have been posted here.

You can submit your audition on this form.

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 | Fall 2026 | Photo by Sheepscot Creative

SYMPHONY Orchestra: Optional Leadership Audition Information

Posted on by Raúl Gómez-Rojas

SYMPHONY Orchestra: Optional Leadership Audition Information

Please submit your audition video by the deadline of Tuesday, October 27

Instructions:

  • Please create one single video with all required excerpts. Cuts are not allowed within excerpts. You may do separate takes for each excerpt and stitch them together into a single video.
  • An audible metronome must be used for your videos.
  • Please record the part that you are playing during the current concert term (Fall 2026. E.g. if you play 2nd flute, please record 2nd flute; if you play violin 2, please record violin 2).
  • Upload your video to YouTube and make sure to set the video privacy to “unlisted.”
  • Submit your audition on this Google form.

Audition Excerpts (from Bernstein’s Candide Overture and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5)

Flute 1

  • Bernstein: m.63 to m.81 (half note = 142)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, pick-up to [59] to [61] (quarter = 120)
    • Mov 4, [115] to [116] (half = 64)

Flute 2

  • Bernstein: m.25 to m.38 (half note = 142)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, 1 before [69] to [70] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, 2nd of [98] with pick-up to [101] (quarter = 104)

Piccolo

  • Bernstein: m.148 to m.172 (half note = 142)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, [69] to [70] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, [110] to [111] (half = 72)

Oboes (both parts)

  • Bernstein: m.26 to m.46 (half note = 142)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, [69] to [70] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, 7 after [107] to downbeat of [109]

Clarinet 1

  • Bernstein: m.255 to end (half note = 152)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, 4 before [69] to [70] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, [104] to [105] (quarter = 132)

Clarinet 2

  • Bernstein: m.255 to end (half note = 152)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, 1 before [69] to [70] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, [104] to [105] (quarter = 132)

E-flat Clarinet

  • Bernstein: m.255 to end (half note = 152)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, [49] to 4 before [51] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, [104] to [105] (quarter = 132)

Bassoons (both parts)

  • Bernstein: m.255 to end (half note = 152)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 4 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, [50] to 4 before [52] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, pick-up to [104] to [105] (quarter = 132)

Horns (all parts)

  • Bernstein: m.190 to m.201 (half note = 142)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [36] to downbeat of 2nd of [38] (quarter = 66)
    • Mov 2, [72] to 5 before [74] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, [128] to [130] (quarter = 116)

Trumpets (all parts)

  • Bernstein: m.123 to m.138 (half note = 142)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [27] to downbeat of [29] (quarter = 126]
    • (1st and 2nd trumpets) Mov 2, [70] to [71] (quarter = 138)
    • (3rd trumpet) Mov 2, 1 before [73] to end (quarter = 138, skip rests)
    • Mov 4, beginning to [98] (quarter = 88, ignore accelerando)

Low brass (all parts)

  • Bernstein: m.247 to end (skip 10 bar rest) (half note = 152)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, 4th of [29] (with pick-up if applicable) to downbeat of [32] (quarter = 126, ignore stringendo)
    • Mov 1, 1 before [33] to 4th of [35] (quarter = 138)
    • (trombones) Mov 4, beginning to [98] (quarter = 88, ignore accelerando)
    • (tuba) Mov 4, pick-up to [104] to [105] (quarter = 132)

Violins (both parts)

  • Bernstein: m.261 with pick-up to end (half note = 152)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, 5 after [54] to [56] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, [113] to [115] (half = 70]

Viola

  • Bernstein: m.83 to m.118 (half note = 142)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, 1 after [15] to [17] (quarter = 92)
    • Mov 2, [55] to [56] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, [110] to [111] (half = 72)

Cello

  • Bernstein: m.260 with pick-up to m.278 (half note = 152)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [32] to 7 after [35] (quarter = 138, or half = 69]
    • Mov 2, [55] to [56] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 3, [90] to [92] (quarter = 62)
    • Mov 4, pick-up to [104] to [105] (quarter = 132)

Bass

  • Bernstein: pick-up to m.8 to m. 21 (half note = 142)
  • Shostakovich:
    • Mov 1, [22] to [23] (quarter = 126)
    • Mov 2, beginning to [49] (quarter = 138)
    • Mov 4, pick-up to [104] to [105] (quarter = 132)

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – October 6, 2026

Posted on by Raúl Gómez-Rojas

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – October 6, 2026

Dear MYS Symphony Orchestra,

Thanks for a wonderful rehearsal on Sunday, October 4. It really felt like we started to tap into the intense emotional content of the 3rd movement of Shostakovich. Candide is coming along as well.

I will post the excerpts for our optional leadership auditions (due October 27th) tonight. While these auditions are optional, I highly encourage everybody to submit one. It’s one of the most effective ways for you to show me your individual work and progress.

Please see below for a rehearsal recap, our plan for 10/11, leadership auditions and more.

Best,

Dr. G.

weekend rehearsals left before concert:

5

Rehearsal Recap: Sunday, October 4

  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-6:00pm: we worked on Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movement 3. We focused on digging deep into the emotional content of the music. After a read-through, we worked on [81] to 1 before [83], and [88] to the end.
    • 6:00pm-6:30pm: we worked on Bernstein’s Overture to Candide. Beginning to [134-ish], and slow work at [64].
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals, brass coachings
    • Strings with Tomás Cotik (Fellowship Room aka Basement aka Contrabassment) – movement 3 of Shostakovich
    • Woodwinds with Jeff Garza, horns with Kim Minson, trumpets with Elizabeth Sotelo and low brass with JáTtik Clark (Fireside Room) – movement 3 of Shostakovich and other spots.

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Rehearsal Plan for Sunday, October 11

  • 4:45pm: arrival & check-in
  • 5:00pm-6:30pm: tutti with RGR
    • 5:00pm-5:30pm: Read-through of Skye Neal’s Coalesce (Young Composers Project)
    • 5:30pm-6:10pm: work on Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, Movement 2
    • 6:10pm-6:30pm: work on Bernstein’s Overture to Candide
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm: break
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: woodwind coachings by sections – spots in all movements (coaches’ choice)
    • Flutes with Adam Eccleston in Jazz Room (basement level)
    • Oboes with Kenneth Bader in Room 206 (2nd floor)
    • Clarinets with James Shields in Room 108 (1st floor)
    • Bassoons with Kai Rocke in Room 207 (2nd floor)
  • 7:00pm-8:30pm: sectionals
    • Strings with Tomás Cotik (Fellowship Room aka Basement aka Contrabassment) – Candide Overture
    • Brass with Kim Minson (Fireside Room) – Shostakovich – all movements (coach’s choice)

Leadership Auditions due October 27

As I mentioned above, our optional leadership auditions due October 27th, as per our season calendar. While these auditions are optional, I highly encourage everybody to submit one. It’s one of the most effective ways for you to show me your individual work and progress.

The list of excerpts and instructions have been posted here.

You can submit your audition on this form.

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 Symphony Orchestra violinists work with Erin Furbee, Assistant Concertmaster of the Oregon Symphony | Thursday 9/24, 2026 | photo by MYS

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – September 29, 2026

Posted on by Raúl Gómez-Rojas

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

SYMPHONY Orchestra Notes – September 22, 2026

Posted on by Raúl Gómez-Rojas

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 Raúl Gómez-Rojas

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