March was a hectic month for many orchestra students. Reynoldsburg High School and the Performing Arts program of Eastland Career Center combined efforts on the musical, Carousel. Orchestra rehearsals began in January and continued until the show opened on March 25. Violinists Chris Dougherty, Megan Primm, and Tiffani Stats, violist Lesley Schultz and bassist Randy Niner joined Mrs. Lori Gaulke and Mrs. Marie Smith in the pit orchestra. Playing in the "pit" for a musical is much different than playing in an orchestra. The "pit" is below stage level and the musicians need to be able to follow the vocalists, play in many advanced keys, and must be able to adjust tempo, style and dynamics frequently. 

          Several other orchestra students were involved "on the stage" in Carousel. Mike Erickson, Quinn Carlson, Meredith Cloud, Krystal Richmond and Lisa Steward honed their singing, acting and dancing skills for the musical. Lisa Steward also designed the program cover and posters for the show, including the artwork above!

          Carousel was a wonderful experience for the orchestra students. Hopefully, another combined effort will take place in the future.