For the first time in Cypress Fairbanks ISD history the Cypress Ridge Symphony Orchestra went on a trip to Chicago IL, to perform at the 69^th annual Midwest clinic, an international band and orchestra conference on Dec 16-19, 2015. A once in a life time opportunity for the students to perform professionally.

The Cypress Ridge Symphony Orchestra has been practicing once a week after school for this event, the strings practice daily.  Summer rehearsals have also helped this group of musicians progressively get better.

The Orchestra played the following pieces.

• “Abduction from the Seraglio” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) arranged by Richard Mayer
• “Love Duet,from the Merry Mount Suite” by Howard Hanson (1896-1981)
• “No. 14: Pas de deux, from the Nutcracker, Op. 71” by Peter Llich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)
• “Tonight, from West Side Story” by Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990) arranged by Robert Longfeild
• “Cityscapes” by Turner Layton, Fred Fisher, Jean Schwartz, Arranged by Mike Lewis

“Way Down Yonder in New Orleans, Chicago, My Chinatown”

Andrew Nixon, guest conductor

• “The Russian Music” Box by Soon Hee Newbold (1974)

Marry Running, guest conductor

• “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin (1898-1937) arranged by Bon Cerulli
• “Dusk to Dawn” by James Kraus (1959)
• “Carol of the Drum” by Kathrene Davis (1892-1980) arranged by Ray Wright
• “Karelia Overture, Op. 10” by Jean Sibelius (1865-1957)

“I don’t think they, the students, know how big of a deal this actually is,” orchestra director Christopher R. Mustell said. With not much time left to practice. Students attending the event are very excited about it and have their own opinion. “It is a once in a life time opportunity that these student’s peers will not receive, and it will hopefully be one of the most exciting memories they have throughout all of high school. For those students attempting to peruse musical careers, it also means exposure to some of the world’s most talented musicians, music, and music educators. It is an experience that cannot be replicated” junior clarinetist Alexandra strode said “I think it will be a really surreal moment. I think I will really understand how grand and great the music can become when I see it, let alone perform it.”

Other students, as well as seniors will be able to experience this opportunity. Senior Marcos Arreola also has a positive look on the event. “This trip will help me by letting me experience how the professionals feel after every performance” Arreola said. “It benefits the students by allowing them experience something that not every school can experience.”

Performing at this event is a great honor. With the effort and dedication the students have put into making the music come to life, this will be an unforgettable performance for the performers.