Local Symphony Collaboration Inspires Student Musicians

Earlier this week, Glacier View Junior High (GVJH) and Emerald Ridge High School (ERHS) Orchestra Students were in for a treat, experiencing a day of professional-level music education due to a special visit from the Federal Way Symphony.

According to its website, the Federal Way Symphony features world-class performers and is committed to nurturing the region’s talented young artists, which led to the symphony's visit to GVJH and ERHS. Led by the symphony’s conductor, Adam Stern, the event included classroom workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions with student orchestra members.

The collaboration was made possible by GVJH and ERHS Orchestra Director Michael Berry, who has performed as a member of the Federal Way Symphony for nearly 15 years. Berry's longstanding relationship with the organization helped open the door to this unique opportunity for students.

"Many students spend up to eight years in our program," Berry said. "Experiencing different perspectives from musicians outside the district is important for them (the students) to experience, especially from those who perform at a professional caliber."

During the visit, students participated in interactive sessions focused on ensemble dynamics, tone production, and musical interpretation.

Glacier View 9th Grade Student Fiona Foster mentioned, "I was excited that I got to see new conductors teach orchestra here. Everyone has their own way of teaching. I've been playing violin for six years, and I like it when I get to have more practice with other people because it makes me feel like I can improve."

Emerald Ridge Senior Daniel Lee, who plays cello, said, "One of the reasons I love music is that it brings people together in a social setting, so our orchestra being able to experience like-minded people coming together and being able to help them is really nice. Something else that I really admire about professional musicians is how inclusive they are. I will say that this experience has encouraged me to continue music as a hobby in the future, and for my emotional and mental well-being."

Federal Way Symphony's visit emphasized the value of community partnerships in arts education and left a lasting impression on the students who took part.

"I look for all the opportunities I can to give my students in front of great quality teachers, mentors, performers, and educators," Berry said. "I would love to see more of this—not just here in Puyallup, but across the board in music programs in our area."