Noora Hosseinzadeh 
Staff Writer

When entering the orchestra room, a symphony of sounds erupts and paints an intense auditory landscape. A prelude of anticipation is created before the grand performance as violinists, cellos, and more tune their instruments. When the baton drops, the symphony sets off; strings glide gracefully on bows, woodwinds trill, and the brass shakes the room. 

   The R.J. Reynolds Orchestra was previously notorious for being one of the top music programs in the state. Once a program that rivaled prestigious schools like NCSSM and UNCSA, has witnessed a decline in recent times. However, under the guidance of April Oster, the recently hired orchestra director, the program wishes to resurrect its previously acclaimed state. 

   “I would like to see us build the program back up to where it can rival UNCSA once more,” Oster said. “I would like to see us return the program to its former glory because there are so many resources in this school that can allow that to happen.”

   In the past, the orchestra limited performances to just two concerts annually. However, Oster is determined to disrupt this tradition, aiming to provide the orchestra with increased opportunities to showcase their talents. 

   “I want to get us performing in front of as many audiences as possible,” Oster said. “We still have our concert coming up on November 28th, but I’ve already gotten offers from Arbor Acres about performing for their retirees, so that is something I’m working to set up. I would also love to take us to Carowinds this year, which is my biggest goal currently.”

   In addition to adding more performances to the roster, Oster is also working to overhaul the current structure of the orchestra program. 

   “I want to restructure how the orchestra program works in general,” Oster said. “We currently have to play catch-up for the freshmen who are brand new to the school with those who did not audition at all. I would like to have two auditioned ensembles in the future. One be a Camerata, which is essentially a large chamber group, and the other be a full symphony of winds, strings, and percussion.”

   Oster’s passion and motivation to improve upon the orchestra program help her students stay engaged in the course just as much as her. Jahari Miller, a bassist for R.J. Reynolds Orchestra believes that this year has been the best one yet for the program.

   “Orchestra is a really fun environment and it’s nice to be surrounded by people with the same music taste as you,” Miller said. “Orchestra has given me a bigger understanding of music and how it is both written and played. I also get to play more intricate pieces with the bass this year, as I believe this instrument is crucial to make classical music work.”

   Shanajah Canady, a violinist of the RJ. Reynolds Orchestra had similar sentiments to share. 

   “I took a break from orchestra when I moved here from New York City, but the good things I heard about this program motivated me to join,” Canady said. “My experience has been very good here. Anytime I wanted to quit, an extra day in the class would change my mind. However,  I did learn how important it was to practice your music.”

   The 2023 school year’s student satisfaction is a testament to the program’s positive trajectory. Oster is actively charting the course for the upcoming year, intending to get more people involved. 

   “As far as joining orchestra, just come in, check it out, and talk to me,” Oster said. “I think I’ve got a fantastic trajectory planned out as far as students who want to pursue a musical career. Private lessons can give you a leg up but they are not necessary if you don’t have access to them. You just need to be able to apply yourself and truly love music to make a career out of it, but there are so many opportunities available that allow you to continue playing your music.”

   Guided by the leadership of Oster, the RJR Orchestra has already made steady progress to return the program to its former glory. Oster’s plans to expand performances, reshape the program structure, and increase student engagement have already garnered success and praise for the 2023 school year. The high student satisfaction rates demonstrate that not only is the RJR Orchestra on track to reclaim their former prestige, but are also composing a promising future under Oster’s direction.