orcXtra: Gr. 9-12

This fall, it's time to make music with the first-ever orcXtra! It might look like an orchestra, but it has an extra kick! Born from the fundamentals of a traditional orchestra program, this ensemble is set to be anything but ordinary. The orcXtra is where classical roots meet fearless and unbridled creativity. Led by former Edina High School Orchestra Director Nick Gaudette, this ensemble throws open the doors to a non-traditional world of music by incorporating electronic and contemporary compositional tools, calling upon a shared dedication from traditional orchestra students, leaving the "traditional" sound at the door and adopting a newly infused, high-octane performative experience.

Think Pachelbel's Canon in D with a thumping dance break. Vivaldi's Four Seasons electrified. Mozart's iconic "Twinkle Little Star" theme emulsified into a gooey, glorious puddle of musical super fuel. Anything is possible, and that's exactly the point.

Whether you love ALL styles and genres of music or you're just excited to stretch beyond the classical concert hall, this is your ensemble. It's not pop. It's not jazz. It's not classical. It's all of it and then some. It's not just extra, it's orcXtra.

The orcXtra will meet weekly on Thursday evenings from 7:00–8:30 PM at Edina High School, with a December concert to close out the fall session and a May concert for spring. And as the ensemble finds its groove, additional concert opportunities may be presented pending groups availability.

Music selections will mirror the recent preparation for Edina Orchestras COACELLO concert. For an example of the song selections we might play, please check out this YouTube video of the Edina Orchestra Program here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uT2lTwtowZ8

Registration Deadline

Registration for all class sessions closes 3 business days before the start date.

If you miss the deadline but are still interested, you can contact the Community Ed office. Space may be limited, but we'll try our best to accommodate late registrations.

Email: communityed@edinaschools.org

Phone: (952) 848-3952