The Bellevue High Chamber Orchestra has once again showcased their exceptional talent, earning third place at W-ASTA / WWU State Orchestra Festival. This achievement reflects the students' hard work, their dedication to their orchestra program and their commitment to each other.
Violin: Polina Akulova, Chloe Chiang, Hosannah Choi, Angelina Chuang, Benjamin Fu, Joshua Lee, Madeline Lee, Wesley Luo, Zach Ong, Melissa Tran, Jerry Zhang, Tina Zheng
Viola: William Liu, Vai Taya
Cello: Chloe Chen, Jeannee Chin, Isaac Cho, Evan Du
Double Bass: Carmen Aguado-Scheyer, Sadie Fader, Bridget Hovind
The Festival
Attending WWU State Orchestra Festival is a tradition for our program. In the past, we've brought both large group and chamber orchestra, and last year we featured a full symphony orchestra. Our program opened with Vivaldi's Double Cello Concerto, featuring senior cellists Chloe Chen and Isaac Cho, before performing Ernesto Lecuona's Córdoba, a composition inspired by the Andalusian city of Córdoba, Spain. The grand finale performance was the 4th movement ('Tema Russo') from Tchaikovsky's Serenade for Strings.
Week 0
This year's Chamber Orchestra has made great strides since the first week of school, but in actuality, our students' preparation dates back to the previous spring in which they successfully auditioned for Chamber Orchestra and fulfilled their promise to contribute their best work in the classroom and on-stage. We are perpetual learners, and our Chamber Orchestra is emblematic of that - finding ways to improve in the way we practice, perform, and operate as a group.
The Power of Teamwork
Collaboration was key to their success. Through teamwork, students developed trust, communication, and confidence. Taking artistic risks and embracing challenges helped shape their musicianship and character. Students making the commitment to rehearse as a full group and perform altogether was also key to their success.
Community Support
One of the most understated yet critical aspects of this field trip is community support. We need chaperones and volunteers! We need our Booster Club! We need YOU! While the students are performing on stage, parent volunteers are needed to help with lunch, managing equipment, and much more. Even our school staff - accountants, school nurse - help to ensure our trip goes smoothly for our students. Thank you to all who made this possible! Huge shoutout to Nany Aguado for providing chaperone-support on this field trip.
Looking Ahead
With this achievement, Chamber Orchestra has not only "made their mark", but have set the tone for what's to come next. Over the next three weeks, Chamber Orchestra will be preparing their auditions for the 2026 National Orchestra Festival, and the 2026 WMEA Conference. Their journey highlights growth, teamwork, and the unifying power of music. As they move forward, they will continue to inspire, perform, and enrich their community with their passion for music. Congratulations to all students and families in our orchestra! I couldn't be more proud of our entire program. Thank you to everyone with us, before us, and who will be joining our outstanding orchestra program for years to come. Bravo tutti! 👏 Andrew Kam, Bellevue High Orchestra Director
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