Ridgefield Middle School Symphonic Orchestra

did you know? It all started when…

Back in 2007, an auditioned string ensemble called Select Orchestra was formed by former RMS orchestra director Mr. McNamara (now at RHS). The program at that time had a need to make Chamber Orchestra more homogeneously grouped, and this was achieved by making Chamber Orchestra an all-town ensemble. However, this would have also made it more exclusive, and thus the need for a second ensemble arose. Liking the all-town format of Chamber, Select Orchestra became an all-town effort as well, which was unique to the orchestra program since it shared a director at each middle school while the others did not. Select Orchestra was originally meant to be a large and inclusive string orchestra for students that were really into their music.

In 2009, at the suggestion of parent Emily Feinberg and with the enthusiastic support of the students middle school band directors Hilary Brown and Andrew Clavi, the group became a full orchestra and was rebranded as Symphonic Orchestra. Thus embarked an epic journey of “This is a MIDDLE SCHOOL orchestra?!?”

In the fall of 2012, Mr. Peters came to the middle schools and has further expanded the quality and scope of the program beyond measure. Under Mr. Peters’ direction, the group consistently receives the highest ratings at adjudication and is a staple in the Ridgefield community. Elementary students are chomping at the bit to join and further their studies. As the director of RMS Symphonic Orchestra for the past 7 years, Mr. Peters has become a legend to both his students and parents. He has earned the deep respect of all of his colleagues in Ridgefield and beyond, also serving as an adjunct professor at WCSU and leading professional development seminars. He is a strong advocate for our music programs in Ridgefield.

Ridgefield Music Matters was originally founded as a high school booster organization but has become so much more. It has expanded its mission to support the high school program by supporting the entire Ridgefield district’s music program. The thriving high school program is dependent upon consummate professionals like Mr. Peters and his other colleagues to drive its success. This year, the organization will focus on immediate implementation of a support system for the RMS orchestra program, and work with the other middle school directors to branch out and support band and choir as well (one thing at a time!). We have also reached out to the elementary programs. Each program is different and has diverse needs, and the RMM mission is to meet those needs as best it can.

After discussions with Mr. Peters and parent coordinator/RMM co-secretary Jenn Hansen, it was decided that the RMS Symphonic Orchestra will adopt a dues system. The dues are $30 and are applied to cover the cost of three rehearsal dinners throughout the year and also a professional video recording of the spring concert. Instead of collecting money at 4 different times, a family pays dues once and that’s it! Mr. Peters and Mrs. Hansen will be working with RMM on ways to provide additional non-monetary support as well, such as logistics for the annual Fantastic Festivals event, concerts, Orchestra Festival, and other events.

Thank you for supporting Ridgefield Music Matters, and music in our schools! Please visit this page to pay dues!