decorahnews.com feature: A new way of making music

A group of people from Decorah and the Dirftless area are making music in a way it has never been made before.  The Oneota Valley Community Orchestra has begun rehearsals on Sunday nights, accomplishing a dream held by several people to form an orchestra made up of people of all ages and backgrounds.

"When I started this new venture, I wasn't sure what the response would be," said founder and Music Director Matthew Cody.  He says he was worried that there would be too many musicians in one orchestra section and too few in another.  "It turned out that we have a perfectly balanced and functional ensemble for this repertory," said Cody.  "We have 45 members and are only a 2nd bassoon player short of full instrumentation.  I couldn't be more pleased with how it has gone so far!"

The orchestra is still accepting memberships in all sections, but especially in the string sections.  Rehearsals are on Sundays from 4:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at the Decorah HS Auditorium.  The first concert some time later this year will feature Mozart's Overture to the "Magic Flute," Beethoven's "Symphony No. 1" and Brahms' "Hungarian Dance #5."

If you would like to play in the OVCO , visit www.ovcorchestra.org or email oneotavalleycommuintyorchestra@gmail.com for more information. 

The current OVCO members say they are pleased with the way rehearsals are going, too.  Emily Mineart of Decorah says the orchestra is giving her a chance once again to play in a lagre group.  Mineart, who played in the Luther College Orchestra when in college, says simply, "I missed it!"

Suzanne Ernst of Decorah, another orchestra member, agrees, and predicts "This brand new orchestra will create a fresh, added facet to the musical life of our community and out-lying area.  To the individuals who own a formerly, much played and much loved instrument, there is no time like the present to play again and re-discover that love."

The Oneota Valley Community Orchestra gives Northeast Iowa musicians a chance to play music in a large ensemble without having to drive to La Crosse or Waterloo for rehearsals.  For many it's an opportunity to take part again in something that was rewarding to them in the past and now is rewarding in new ways.  Notes Lea Lovelace of Decorah,"My kids are VERY excited!"