What Is Classical Music?
Classical music generally refers to the art music of the Western world, distinct from Western folk or popular music traditions. It is characterized by formality, complexity in musical form, and harmonic organization, particularly with the use of polyphony.

We Are Harper’s String Orchestra
The String Orchestra for Adults performs a wide range of genres, each with its distinct characteristics. Some of the main genres of classical music include Baroque, Classical, and Romantic. It also encourages its members and fans to learn and share more about and from each other.

Everyone Can Join
The Ensemble is accessible to all members of the community aged 15 and older. At any level, you are required to play a string instrument (violin, viola, cello, double bass); auditions are not mandatory. A plus is the capacity to read music. Professional musicians and educators are invited to participate.

We’ll Start With What You Know
Everyone has someplace to begin. Thus, you are more acquainted with some music than others. We shall, therefore, start with a repertoire that you are most proficient in and know the most. A more intricate repertoire will subsequently serve as a vehicle for more captivating performances, enhancing the abilities of the members along the way.

Suggestions and Inputs Are Welcome
Your input and contributions are precious to us. We consider you an expert the moment you enter that door, even if you are sometimes unaware of it! Thus, a platform will be provided for you to exhibit your expertise, creativity, ideas, opinions, and preferred genres of music. Additionally, we appreciate recommendations from members of the Ensemble and the community.

There is Always Something New to Learn.
You will become musically aware, artistically adaptable, conscientious, and receptive, whether you are a member of the group or simply support it by attending concerts. The Ensemble engages with the repertoire it performs while emphasizing the parallels and interrelationships that exist among all musical genres.

Our Rehearsals Are Hands-On
Every week, the Ensemble conducts rehearsals that have the atmosphere of interactive workshops. The director frequently provides a comprehensive approach to performing a piece and integrates matters of performance practice to enhance the overall interpretation.

We Shall Perform!
You will enrich your musical experiences by taking them to the stage. So yes, we provide plenty of performance opportunities.

Grow and Evolve
Eventually, you might wish to engage with the group by writing a piece or examining the interconnections that will ultimately affect our performance. Additionally, the Ensemble is determined to emphasize harmony, phrasing, dynamics, articulations, embellishments, color, timbre, form, and rhythm.

For more musical entertainment, visit these videos from the String Orchestra’s December 2023 concert:

Ashokan Farewell (youtube.com)

March from the Nutcracker (youtube.com)

Exsultate Jubilate (youtube.com)

Joy To the World – Deck The Halls (youtube.com)

Dreidel Song – YouTube

Sarabande & Bourree (youtube.com)

Learn more and register for the String Orchestra for Adults.