Orchestra Update

The orchestra program is a musical activity that takes place here at Lincoln Jr. High every morning from 8:00 to 8:45am, along with other overture programs including Band and Choir. Recently, a new teacher named Ms. Gillani has taken the position of orchestra director that was formerly held by Mrs. Peters.

The orchestra was led by Mrs. Peters for over 20 years, who retired at the end of last school year. She is missed greatly but we are excited to have Ms. Gillani in the music program here at Lincoln! Here is an interview with Ms. G about her feelings on joining the orchestra, her musical background, and more :)

Q (Noa) : How do you feel about joining the Lincoln Orchestra?

A (Gillani): “I'm super excited about being part of the Lincoln Orchestra. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and patient with me as I get to know Lincoln, the staff/students/community, and the district as a whole. It's been an adjustment for all, but I think we're getting along well.”

Q (Noa): What is the first instrument in orchestra you learned to play?

A (Gillani): “My first string instrument was the cello, which I learned in college when becoming a music educator. My first band/orchestra instrument was the trumpet, which I still play in community bands. Once I got my first strings job, I began to learn violin and, over time, viola, and bass. I still have a lot to learn, but this type of work is fun for me!”

Q (Noa): Do you have any advice for students deciding whether to join overture or not?

A (Gillani): My advice is to give it a shot. No matter your previous experience, give it a try if you're interested in orchestra to any degree. You have the opportunity to learn an instrument that is hard to find later in life. Base your decision on the instrument you love hearing, yearn to play and learn, and will have the most fun with. If you love the instrument you're learning, you will learn quicker and have more fun. Your directors, the music, the people in orchestra, and more will change over the years, but your instrument choice will remain. If you enjoy the instrument, the rest doesn't matter as much.

Q (Noa): Is there a specific piece of music you are excited to teach us this year?

A (Gillani): “I'm looking forward to performing Gauntlet by Doug Spata and Velocity by Brian Balmages. Both have challenging rhythms, cool repeated motifs, and are fun to play. They stretch our technical and rhythmic skills and I'm excited to see students learn and grow through these pieces.”