In music, there are few experiences quite like the enriching experience of being a member of The Ben Barber Orchestra. This activity transcends the simple playing of music, shaping individuals in ways that reach far beyond their lifetime. Musicians within the orchestra who dedicate themselves not only develop their technical skills but also learn a profound sense of camaraderie, discipline, and self-betterment. Whether new or old, the orchestra members go through a life-altering experience that touches them in ways they never thought possible. With the shared struggles, triumphs, and inspiration of making music as one, being a part of the Ben Barber Orchestra teaches a deep sense of appreciation for teamwork, perseverance, and the power of music to convey what words can only attempt to speak.

For most musicians, the time they have spent playing in an orchestra is a gauge of their passion for music. Some arrive with the simple longing to participate in the art form, and others find themselves drawn by the social aspects of an ensemble that creates more than the sum of its parts. From the beginning, new members immediately get the feeling that they belong, as they recognize that playing in the Ben Barber Orchestra is not just about playing solo but about fulfilling a common artistic purpose. With time, the passion grows, shaping their identity as musicians and confirming their love for the art. This long-standing commitment is a huge stepping stone for them in their career as a musician, and they continue to learn and progress within the organization. Mark-Anthony Cassel, a sophomore cello within the ‘symphonic’ group at the Ben Barber Academy Orchestra, comments on the community placed within the designated orchestra.

“But I think that, in terms of community […] the [Ben Barber] Orchestra[‘s] community is just richer, and the sense of community and belonging is unique to itself, especially in what the Ben Barber Academy has to offer, you know,” said Cassel.

One of the greatest qualities of orchestral participation is the collaborative environment of the experience, and the musicians are tasked with coming together and translating the composer’s vision into existence, to bring each note ringing into harmony with the entire body. This is not a straightforward process, as coordinating performances requires there to be ongoing communication, flexibility, and mutualistic understanding. In the difficult moments, musicians rely on one another to sort out problems like timing and dynamics. Through mutual problem-solving, they enhance their listening abilities to react accordingly and strengthen their connection with their co-performers. These experiences cultivate essential skills demonstrating that success in an orchestra is as much a function of being able to work as part of a team as it is personal talent. Zoe Amoguis, a freshmen violinist within the ‘chamber’ group at the Ben Barber Academy Orchestra, shares her experiences with collaboration between students within the orchestra.

“We’re preparing this piece: Neon, by Kevin Day, for a competition […] in it, there are all kinds of weird harmonies and mixed meter, and especially challenging runs. It took us a while to learn, and even now we aren’t perfect, […] [but] through student-led sectional time, we were able to give each other comments and improve our collective sound just through practicing it as a group, improving drastically. [And] I see that the teamwork in orchestra can, and has impacted, my collaboration, leadership, and communication skills, [and] has given me an opportunity to use my skills to lead others in my section.” said Amoguis.

The impact of belonging to an orchestra extends beyond individual growth, it inspires musicians to cultivate a sense of responsibility toward their peers and the music they create together. Each performance presents an opportunity to contribute not only their own talent but also to elevate those around them. This sense of accountability helps forge a strong work ethic, as musicians recognize that their efforts directly influence the overall sound and success of the ensemble. Katelyn Ho, a freshmen violist within the “chamber” group talks about the gained work ethic.

“Feedback from peers and my conductor allows [me] to decipher what I’m doing wrong so I can fix it more efficiently, and overtime […] it leads me to recognize that everyone has their own contribution to the sound that we create, which eventually shapes work ethic between us all.” said Ho.

Being a member of the Ben Barber Orchestra is not just a musical experience; it is an experience of learning where people get to learn and grow themselves as well as their art. Musicians learn to juggle their schedules, cope with adversity, and push their creative boundaries working together in concert. Offstage, the lessons they learn, which includes perseverance, discipline, work ethic, cooperation, remain with them and inform the many challenges of their life. The most beautiful thing about orchestra is not just the music it produces, but the bonds it creates and the lessons it imparts. Through the power of collaboration and imagination, musicians share the invaluable lessons learned in the experience of belonging to an orchestra, indicative of the tremendous power of music far beyond the concert hall.