The Green Lake Youth Orchestra, formed eight years ago, began with a handful of young string players and three adults.
Those little ones are now accomplished young musicians. They rehearse weekly, conducted by Alex Gagiu, a Julliard graduate and conductor of the Cantamus Seattle Girls' Choir.
The ensemble continues to welcome youthful, aspiring musicians who bless and are blessed through their regular participation in the music of the Green Lake Church in Seattle, Wash.
In recent months the orchestra played for the Walla Walla University Church worship service, the Chehalis Church worship service and the Kirkland Church service. The highlight of their season was playing numerous hymns and special music selections for the Sabbath morning worship service at Washington Adventist Camp Meeting on June 16.
The orchestra has a repertoire of more than 100 hymns, all with original orchestral arrangements, and more than 100 mostly classical selections — a surprising choice for most contemporary Adventist churches.
See a recent orchestra performance of "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" at youtu.be/N2m1GEQV6iE.
Orchestra members were treated to a potluck luncheon during their visit to the Chehalis Church.
Green Lake Youth Orchestra perform at the Kirkland Church.
On the platform for the Washington Camp Meeting in Auburn, Wash.
Green Lake Youth Orchestra performs for church services throughout the year and capped off this season by playing for the first Sabbath of the Washington Adventist Camp Meeting. (Heidi Baumgartner)
