Two dancers in a past performance of the Nutcracker. photo courtesy of Terry Shapiro
Advanced TJ woodwind students will perform at The Nutcracker.
On Christmas Eve, TJ’s woodwind performers will dazzle ballet-goers at The Nutcracker. These students will play in the lobby of the Ellie Caulkins Opera House preceding and during the intermission of a performance of the ballet. The students performed once at the ballet on November 28th, and they are excited to bring their music to the Denver community once again.
The Colorado Ballet asks schools each year to perform in the lobby of the opera house. There were many students chosen from the advanced orchestra classes to participate in this event. Participating students practiced diligently to ensure a top-notch performance. Sophomore Rachel Golledge, who performed the violin at the event on November 28th, explained how they prepared: “We practiced the week before in class and got together early the morning of the performance to practice some more.” Past concerts have focused on string instrumentals such as violin, viola, or cello, but this year TJ was asked to select woodwind musicians because the songs they will play are more difficult, and the advanced players have the experience needed.
The upcoming performance for The Nutcracker has kept many of its participants busy. To prepare, the musicians have been practicing every day at lunch, during classes, and after school, and will continue to practice up until the performance on Christmas Eve. Sophomore Elijah Thomas, who will play the tenor saxophone for the event, said, “It’s one of the only instruments that schools usually don’t use, so I’m one of the only players in the state.” He explained how this instrument then gives him more parts to play, saying, “It has a lot of melodies that stand out.” The students will begin playing roughly an hour before the show begins, and will continue to entertain the crowds for 15- 20 minutes during intermission.
Quite a few of TJ’s orchestra players have been given opportunities to perform for large crowds outside of TJ. For this event, students can get out of their comfort zones and showcase their talents in a new and different environment. Performing during The Nutcracker gives students a unique opportunity to work hard and improve, and the musicians are excited to exhibit their skills to several new faces.
