The Kent School Orchestra first performed in 1994 with a mere three string players, but with support from The Admissions Office, Father Schell, and community members, it gradually developed into a full-fledged symphony orchestra.  It is currently composed of 52 members, fully outfitted with a string, wind, brass, and percussion section.

Conductor Mrs. Jennifer Hobbs thoroughly enjoys leading the orchestra as “students bring so much energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to each rehearsal.” She welcomes all faculty and community members to participate, hoping to further their musical pursuits while giving them “self-worth and a sense of accomplishment.”

Although Kent students must take a music course to graduate, many join the orchestra not out of necessity but rather to enjoy the experience.  Tina Moon ’18, who leads the orchestra as the first chair violinist, describes orchestra as a time to relieve stress and enjoy “hearing all the notes and parts come together.”  While proud of the group’s progress, Moon believes the orchestra “definitely capable of further improvement,” and looks forward to the final Spring concert.

Currently, the orchestra is preparing pieces based on Broadway and other classic productions like Romeo and Juliet.  Usually, the song choice correlates with the season: symphonies and overtures in the fall, holiday music in the Winter, and lighthearted, adventurous numbers for the late-Winter and Spring concerts.

 For over twenty years, the Kent School Orchestra continues to have a lasting impact on the community, inspiring students to reach beyond the world of academics and begin another journey through symphony.