Last Friday, members of the Abbado Orchestra got together as a full string ensemble for the first time. They have been doing intensive work in smaller group sectionals since the start of the year, and at last had the opportunity to perform and experience their own parts in the context of the whole work. The piece, “Hiawatha” by Soon Hee Newbold, requires musicians to be sensitive to suddenly changing moods, from the powerful and heroic, to the gentle and heartfelt. The Abbado musician’s hard work clearly had paid off, as their rehearsal illustrated both a strong technical understanding of their parts as well as a thorough musical understanding of the emotions conveyed by different sections of the piece. Bravo, Abbado! We look forward to hearing your progress as you continue to push yourselves on even more advanced music!