In the early spring of 2014, an exciting movement to organize and regularly showcase the musical talent of Star Valley residents began! This effort was dubbed the Salt River Symphony Chorus (SRSC). A: The SRSC is a choir and symphony orchestra made up of local talent. The SRSC's goal is to become a permanent fixture of the Star Valley community. To date, the SRSC has provided the community with four very successful concerts (all with free admission) and has been able to effectively fundraise in partnership with the SV Arts Council for future concerts. Q: What types of musicians is the SRSC looking for? A: We hope to recruit polished musicians, budding musicians and even those who haven’t performed for a long time. We need string, wind, percussion and brass players for the orchestra, AND we want all singers - young and old, advanced and novice! Every new concert season is a chance to add new performers to the SRSC family! Q: Why is the SRSC important for Star Valley? A: Star Valley is rich with musical talent, but venues to showcase this talent are lacking. Performances of Handel’s Messiah prior to the formation of the SRSC involved 105 choir members and a 40-piece symphony orchestra. It was awe-inspiring to witness the talent that is in our valley! Unfortunately, the community was only able to enjoy this caliber of performance every other year. Local vocalists and musicians began requesting more performance opportunities and the SRSC was formed to support these performers in their desires to regularly share their talents. Music brings joy, and who couldn't use a little more of that in their lives? Q: Who spearheads this effort? A: The SRSC board is made up of supportive community members and past performers. The first four performances were conducted by James Arbizu, local music educator (orchestra conductor) and Tara Johnson, local vocalist (choir conductor). These talented individuals volunteered 100% of their time to select music, organize rehearsal schedules, run rehearsals and conduct the performances. Q: When was the first performance? A: The first performance was held on Sunday, May 18, 2014. Q: What works were performed? A: The premier piece for the first performance was Mac Wilberg's choir and orchestral arrangement of "Come Thou Font of Every Blessing". The choir also performed some fun, light pieces and a rather silly and fun soprano solo, “Adele's Laughing Song” from Strauss’ operetta, Die Fledermaus. Instrumental works included a solo performance by local bassoonist Alan Goodman, the first movement of Mozart's 40th Symphony and Brahm's “Hungarian Dance No. 5”. Past performance posters and recordings are archived on the SRSC page. Q: What is the cost of admission? Audience members and performers are encouraged to make monetary donations (of any amount) to help cover production costs. Concerts of this nature can cost anywhere between $1,000-$2,000. Involved expenses include sheet music rental, advertising costs, program printing, custodial services for the high school auditorium, etc. If specific instruments cannot be found within the community then the hire of an outside musician may be necessary. Q: Does the Star Valley Arts Council help with funding? A: Due to limited resources, the SV Arts Council is unable to provide this effort monetary sponsorship. However, the SV Arts Council has readily agreed to partner with us so we are eligible for financial grants. The SV Arts Council also provides us an umbrella under their 501c3 status so we can accept donations from community members that are tax-deductible. Q: Are there auditions for the choir and orchestra? A: No auditions are required. If you like to sing we want you there! If you are looking for a reason to dust off your instrument, we want you there, too! Q: Are there solo auditions? A: Each concert offers solo opportunities. Details on auditions are provided at the first rehearsal. Q: Is there an age requirement? A: We recommend that performers be at least 12 years old. However, if a younger child can maturely handle the length of rehearsals and concert etiquette, we welcome them! Q: How frequent will the performances be? A: The goal is to have two performances per year. Q: Besides performing, are there other ways to be involved? A: We need stagehands and lighting/sound technicians, music librarians, treasurers and fundraising/publicity experts. Anyone interested in helping with the organization of this effort is encouraged to join the board. If nothing else, please join our effort by making a donation of any size and bring your family and friends to enjoy the performances! Q: Who should interested individuals contact for more information? A: [email protected]
