From the high school stage to the world stage - that’s what in store for more than 65 students at North Atlanta High School.
They've hit the musical jackpot.
It came as a big surprise to the North Atlanta High School orchestra as their conductor, Stephen Lawrence, dramatically told his players they were on their way to perform on one of the world's most prestigious concert stages: Carnegie Hall in New York City.
“I played there back when I was in high school. I never thought at any moment that I would be conducting, let alone have kids on that stage,” Lawrence reflected.
The orchestra was selected through audition tapes to participate in the Worldstrides Heritage Festival at Carnegie Hall. But right now, its total dedication to practice for the orchestra’s Feb. 24 debut at Carnegie Hall.
As the date nears, excitement among the young orchestra members mounts.
“I think it is going to be like a dream, because so many famous people have played there, so it is going to be so amazing,” said Madeleine O’Byrne, a viola player. "It is something I will remember for a very long time."
Violin player Patrick Daniel added, “I feel very excited. For many years I’ve decided to take my craft seriously, playing the violin. Being able to perform on such a prestigious stage with such an amazing group is quite an experience.”
And the excitement is echoed by fellow violin player Clarke Norman.
“I’ll be nervous to play there, but I’ll be so excited and like starry-eyed,” he explained.
Photos: North Atlanta High School orchestra
For Lawrence, the Carnegie Hall appearance brings excited anticipation.
“Making our way to that stage, and when we finally get the opportunity to play our first note there, we just can’t wait for it,” he said.
The orchestra has set a fund-raising goal of $25,000 to make the trip and says it already has raised $19,000 of it.
After Carnegie Hall, it's off to a Broadway show, Radio City and the top of the Empire State Building.
To donate to the Orchestra Trip to Carnegie Hall, you can go to: www.naroad2carnegie.com.