Bethany and Manhattan Orchestra Concert

Friday, April 14th, Bethany College Chamber Orchestra played with Manhattan High Chamber Orchestra at Presser. Bethany had a series of activities throughout the day to activate the minds and bodies of the talented players.

Manhattan High arrived at Bethany College at 12 PM, taking their belongings to the Chapel where Bethany Admissions hosted a seminar. Manhattan then went on a 45 minute tour guided by a student ambassador, whereafter they took a break in preparation for the sectionals hosted by several professors. These sectionals were exclusively for cellos, basses, violins, and violas– both Bethany and Manhattan students playing together. Afterward, all students returned to the Chapel and participated in a stretch class.

With their bodies prepped, the students were finally ready for their first rehearsal as a complete unit. The two schools have been prepping their music separately, and there were nerves about the occasion, but everyone can say that there was a unanimous breath of relief as the rehearsal went smoothly.

With everything in place, and Manhattan High having a pizza party in celebration, people began to file into Presser, excited for the musical performance that the two schools were about to put on. Manhattan began the concert with a series of solos, showing the audience the skill and hard work they have individually put into their instruments. Manhattan then had their students present several pieces as a full group.

Finally, at the end of the concert, Bethany College students walked on stage with their band director, Dr. Keith Dodson, and presented two pieces. The first piece that was played was Danse Bacchanale by Camille Saint and then ended the night with Finlandia by Jean Sibelius. The night ended with a standing ovation and hopes that Manhattan High will join Bethany again next year.