The harp: how many strings?

The harp: how many strings?

Jun 25, 2020 | All Posts

It’s not just the national symbol of Ireland. The harp has existed in some form for over 5,000 years, and it’s still seen today in the concert hall. It’s easy to see why it’s on Team Strings – they can have up to 47 strings! Harp...
Sean Chen, pianist, roots for Team Percussion

Sean Chen, pianist, roots for Team Percussion

Jun 25, 2020 | All Posts

Sean Chen, pianist and frequent performer with New West Symphony, grew up in the community and cheered onTeam Percussion in the Battle of the Sections: Orchestra Edition on June 25th, 2020.   [youtube]aSQn7W4t0ks[/youtube]   Watch Sean’s piano rendition of the...
The oboe, oh boy!

The oboe, oh boy!

Jun 25, 2020 | All Posts

The oboe is another strong member of the Woodwinds section. Some people might confuse it with the clarinet, but it’s a very unique instrument. New West Symphony principal oboist Lara Wickes helps us get more familiar with the instrument.  ...
See you bassoon!

See you bassoon!

Jun 25, 2020 | All Posts

Maybe you don’t think about the bassoon all that often, but it has stand-out moments in much of your favorite music, from the opening of Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring to the music for Harry Potter: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. New West Symphony...

Harpsichord: the piano’s older sibling

Jun 25, 2020 | All Posts

[youtube]J6VO5lWRtbg[/youtube]   Sometimes people can’t decide whether the piano is a string or a percussion instrument. After all, it’s made up of dozens and dozens of strings! But the key element is the fact that pianos make their sound when little...