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Fiddle Ensemble

Fiddle Ensemble

Open to members of the Symphony Orchestra and Repertory Orchestra and new members by Audition.

Discover captivating melodies and lively dance tunes from across the globe, including the jigs and reels of the British Isles and American old-time favorites! Designed and open to members of Symphony Orchestra, Repertory Orchestra and String Orchestra,  the program begins in March.  Students participate in a minimum of six coachings led by Aldo Lavaggi for a final performance to conclude the program.  

Why Fiddle Music?

Discover captivating melodies and lively dance tunes from across the globe, including the jigs and reels of the British Isles and American old-time favorites. Fiddle music has deep roots in dance traditions, and in this workshop, we will explore how to infuse your playing with the groove and rhythm that inspires people to move. You’ll learn to play by ear, harmonize, improvise and craft rhythmic accompaniments. 

About the instructor

Aldo Lavaggi is a multi-instrumentalist, performer, and music educator based near Hudson, NY. With over 20 years of experience, he has been a dedicated ambassador of traditional music and dance, leading public and private workshops across New England. Aldo is the Co-founder and director of Fiddles in the Forest, a new music camp for young string players held at the Ashokan Center in Olive Bridge, NY. He co-founded the Columbia County Contradance, now in its 15th season, and is passionate about fostering community resilience through music and dance.  Together with his group, The Russet Trio, Aldo has appeared at festivals such as the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, and Ashokan Music and Dance Camp.  He is a certified Waldorf teacher and Spacial Dynamics Level I practitioner.

REHEARSAL TIMES & LOCATION

When...

The six 90-minute rehearsals will be scheduled on Sundays 2:30-4:30pm and all rehearsals will take place at Brown School in Schenectady.

  • SUNDAY, MARCH 2: Rehearsal
  • SUNDAY, MARCH 9: Rehearsal
  • SUNDAY, MARCH 16: Rehearsal
  • SUNDAY, MARCH 23: Rehearsal
  • SUNDAY, APRIL 6: Rehearsal
  • SUNDAY, APRIL 13: Rehearsal
  • SUNDAY, APRIL 27: Dress Rehearsal

Concert date: MAY 12,2025 5:00pm

Additionally, there may be other music events throughout the spring season for fiddle ensemble members. 

 

Eligible Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass

Where...

Brown School 150 Corlaer Ave, Schenectady, NY 12304

Cost & Registration Guidelines

For all scheduled events (coaching, dress rehearsal, and the concert) and any special masterclass opportunities:

COST = $250

 

Tuition assistance is available and participation is not dependent on the student’s ability to pay the full tuition. 

Eligible Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass


Other instruments may participate upon approval. Please contact David Bebe at dbebe@esyo.org with any request to join the Fiddle Ensemble with an instrument other than violin, viola, cello or double bass. 

Please contact Dr. David Bebe at dbebe@esyo.org if you have any questions!

Current Orchestra members register now! New Members please submit an audition video below.

When... Registrations due Feb 17

For Musicians New to ESYO Only

Please click the link below to submit an audition. Audition videos should present two pieces of a contrasting nature.

Please contact Dr. David Bebe at dbebe@esyo.org if you have any questions!

Need Help?

Having difficulties with registration? Contact Mary Rose Petrozola at mpetrozola@esyo.org

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