In-Person Rehearsals:
In-person rehearsals follow WA State DOH guidelines for schools. We are watching evolving School District and State COVID guidelines and will make changes accordingly. Click here for complete BYSO COVID Policy and Procedures.
BYSO 2022-23 SEASON
Fall Quarter Dates | September 26, 2022 through November 22, 2022
There are 7-8 rehearsals per quarter, which are held on Monday evenings and one Saturday retreat for each ensemble during Fall and Winter Quarters. Specific dates will be posted here as the Fall quarter approaches.
Click here for audition information.
About
Cadet String Orchestra is an entry-level orchestra for strings. This BYSO ensemble is open to string players (violin, viola, cello, double bass), who are at least six years old, can read simple music easily, and are comfortable with their instrument. The typical Cadet String Orchestra student may have started the instrument only recently but has developed solid early proficiency and is prepared for the challenges of a large group setting. Students accepted into Cadet String Orchestra typically have been playing the instrument for one to three years.
Cadet String Orchestra is designed to be a young musician’s first group experience. Students receive instruction in following a conductor and playing as an ensemble. Prior orchestra experience is not required.
The repertoire for Cadet String Orchestra is mostly in first position, but it is still challenging, with some knowledge of sharps and flats required. Past works performed include arrangements of Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 5, Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld, and Balmages’s Fantasy on a Japanese Folk Song.
Conductor: Andrew Kam
Andrew Kam received his Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Miami and his Master’s degree in Violin Performance from the University of Oregon. Mr. Kam currently serves as Orchestra Director for Bellevue High School and is a violinist with Symphony Tacoma. Learn more.
Contact Andrew Kam at cadet@byso.org
Messages from the Conductor
4/25/2022
Greetings Cadet Musicians and Families:
Seating Auditions are optional. Seating Auditions are used to place the first four musicians in each section (Concertmaster, Principal, Assistant Principal, etc.). Seating from Chair 5 and back will rotate throughout the remainder of the quarter.
1st Violins and Cellos Audition, 4/25
2nd Violins, 3rd Violins, Viola Auditions, 5/2
*If your musician is absent on the day of seating auditions, please share a video recording with the conductor no later than Wednesday, 2/16. cadet@byso.org
Please do not use seating auditions as a ranking! Seating auditions are designed to create an opportunity for students who are the most prepared and are ready to take on a leadership position. We will be assessing (1) notes, (2) rhythms, (3) dynamics, (4) articulations, (5) expression / vibrato
Sheet Music. You can download music by visiting my OneDrive folder. Violinists – please check your part assignments before downloading your music to ensure you are accessing the correct part! Violin Part Reminder: We value a balanced ensemble, with an appropriate amount of musicians performing each part. Please keep in mind part assignments are not rankings, and we often move musicians between sections. In professional orchestras, this is common practice. Thank you for your understanding.
For each rehearsal, musicians will need to bring their (1) instrument, (2) music and pencil, and (3) a music stand.
Please feel free to reach out at info@byso.org or cadet@byso.org with any questions!
Sincerely,
Andrew Kam
Cadet String Orchestra Conductor
Cadet Seating Chart 2021-22
