For six weeks, nine scholars from the Middletown High School Chamber Orchestra have rehearsed with members from the Newburgh Chamber Music organization, leading up to a concert that will put their talents on full display.

Last year, Chamber Orchestra scholars visited Newburgh for a performance and music workshop from the Dali String Quartet. This event was sponsored by Newburgh Chamber Music, an organization that brings musicians and performances into the community and facilitates educational outreach.

Due to the success of last year's event, Newburgh Chamber Music, utilizing grant funding, sent a few of their members, who are string quartet musicians, to Middletown for six consecutive weeks. During this time, they have met with our scholars and trained them in the art of chamber music.

Chamber music performances are unique from typical ensembles. The music is performed by small groups such as trios and quartets. Each musical part is played by an individual musician, requiring a sharper skillset and allowing no support from fellow musicians. The result is similar to a performance featuring three or four soloists.

The last of the workshop sessions have recently concluded, and now our nine participating scholars are preparing for their recital. Our scholars will be performing in small groups, showcasing all that they have learned, on Wednesday, March 25 at 6 p.m. at the Middletown High School Library Media Center. The concert is free and open to the public. Please come out and support our Middie Musicians in this extra special performance!

Participating scholars:

• Juliana Sanchez Lituma, violin
• Matthew MacKay, viola
• Devin Coleman, cello
• Heather Checo, violin
• Emily MacKay, cello
• Benjamin Grazier, piano
• Alana Frith, viola
• Sophia DeSilva, violin
• Gabriella Melendez, violin