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There is no feeling more incredible than that which a musician feels when they feel as if they have grown in their craft. Playing my violin in front of people has always, since I began playing 11 years ago, been an incredibly nerve-wracking experience for me. Don’t get me wrong, I love playing my instrument and I love the feeling of playing with an orchestra, but the nerves always find their way to me. With Mark Wood, however, it’s different. He has a passion and an energy that makes students feel empowered and confident in their talents. He walks around the stage playing his six-stringed instrument and encourages students to move around, smile, and have fun playing some of the world’s greatest rock pieces. I had the opportunity to play one of the electric violins at the concert, and I was not nervous or afraid of messing up; I was just beyond excited to be making amazing music with a professional musician, my talented peers, and with a huge audience supporting us. I have been lucky enough to perform with Mark Wood twice, and both times I have gained confidence in myself, been proud beyond measure of my fellow orchestra peers, and seen the community come together to support public school students in one of the greatest gifts we have on this earth -- music. Mark Wood, in his few days he spends in workshops with students, helps them grow monumentally. He inspires the future generations of musicians, promotes the arts in schools, and makes a major splash in our community. For that I am beyond grateful.

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An experience like this to a musician may only come once in a lifetime. Having a founding member of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra come to our district to play music with us not only once but twice is absolutely amazing.  An experience like this not only lets me grow as a musician, but it allows everyone in orchestra to experience a rock show, and it allows us as musicians to experiment with rock music instead of playing strictly classical music.  An experience lets us come out as musicians in a way, and show our true colors through our enthusiasm and dance.  Overall, an experience like this not only helps us grow as individuals, but as a family.

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This was my second time playing with Mark Wood. I was in 8th grade the first time I played and at that time, playing the type of style of music that we did had taken me completely out of my comfort zone. The second time around doing this wasn't really anything new to me but it was still a fun experience and to perform with the choir. I am glad that I was able to be apart of this for my second time. My first experience made me more comfortable with going outside my comfort zone and I am glad that it was able to have that effect on me. I would like to play with Mark Wood again as I have enjoyed my past two experiences.

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Lets start with the first practice, We got our music in mid-January. It was complicated, but I didn´t care, I was just ready for Mark Wood to come back. I prepared with the ultimate goal of performing on the viper. In 7th grade I was a soloist, but I didn´t get to play the viper. I worked towards that for the next 2 months, coming in after school, working on my music. The hard work payed off when I once again caught Mark´s attention. This time I got to play the viper for ´Carry On My Wayward Son´ and it is something I will never forget and will keep close to me for the rest of my life. I am thankful for the opportunity to not only play the viper but to even be on the same stage as this talented group. Thank You Mark Wood, Laura Kaye, and Nathan Blake for making this experience unforgettable.

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Throughout my time as a cello player, I have always loved classical music. Naturally, most of the music we play in class and the music I play on my own is classical style. Being able to step out of my comfort zone and really allow myself to try something new was really eye opening. I got to experience movement and new rhythms and style. Mark Wood does way more with his instrument than I could have ever imagined. I had the opportunity to talk with him, and he really changed my view on music and its purpose. He really made me realize that music was a way to tell a story, and nobody will ever have the same story. I think that my duty as a musician isn't just to improve my own skills, or even just to inspire others, but its to tell my story though my playing. I think that over the course of learning, practicing, and perfecting the music I really learned how to tell the story and make it personal. I know that when you put yourself into the music, it's so much more rewarding than just going though the motions. I'm so thankful I got to be apart of the Mark Wood experience.

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The experience with mark wood has given me such a great opportunity to grow as a cello player and get closer to my fellow peers also in the orchestra. It has challenged me with more difficult songs and showed me the diversity of music that is able to be played on our string instruments. This experience has made become out of my comfort zone and become more outgoing in my musical section.

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Mark Wood has provided us a extraordinary experience to grow as musicians. Ever since the last time he came to Oshkosh, we have been striving to be the best musicians we can be, and with our concert held recently, we proved to Mark Wood that we have grown. We not only grew over the years, we became better musicians just by practicing his music. Every note that flows off your instrument helps you improve the skill you have, and we can credit Mark Wood for giving us this opportunity to play with him.

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Throughout my life time I never had so much fun while performing up in a stage. It was like no other experience I ever had because of the all lighting, choir, and all the people watching us. Working with Mark Wood change how I play my instrument for the most fun way.

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This was my second time playing with mark wood and my second time getting to go up and play his viper. i think it was a great experience for me because it makes me want to keep playing and challenging myself. i think it was great to play with the choir to learn to play with more than just an orchestra. its great to just be me and not sit in a tuxedo and stay still, to move around and be myself was amazing and fun. i hope he comes at least one more time before i'm done with high school to remind me how fun orchestra can be.

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I think being part of Mark Wood was an overall good experience especially being able to be a part of it for a second time. Playing with Mark Wood is something that i usually wouldn't do and is very much out of my comfort zone, because I had to play in front of a large crown and not only play music but move around at the same time. I think this made me a better musician because it taught me to be able to play my music more fluently and to memorize certain parts of the song and having a big crowd was beneficial because it will help me able to be in front of people in the future. Something I was also thankful to be apart of was having the ability to become closer with the other members of the orchestra and get to know them more. This was a memory I was glad to be apart of and share with the people in the orchestra.

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Back in 6th grade when i started orchestra my class was very small and me being the only violin one of that class made me really timid to play. I had no one else to help me become confident in my section. But with mark wood coming to Oshkosh again it really made me realize my potential as a string player. And how much i really love playing music other than classical music in orchestra  (This photo was taken by my mom who has been there for all my concerts and who has supported though all music concerts) over all this experience was fun and i would want to do it again.

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My experience working with mark wood has changed my thoughts and views on orchestra. We played music that I'm not really used to playing in class. And the concert was very memorable because we were standing up, there were lights and the choir sang with us. It was also very cool working with such a talented musician like Mark Wood. He tried engaging us in the concert a lot. This experience helped me bond with other members of the orchestra. Which I am very thankful for. Another thing i thought was fun was playing with younger and older orchestra members for the finale.

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Tyler Kamholz
Tyler Kamholz
Throughout my whole orchestra career I have only been in a tuxedo and had to sit down to play my music. this concert was like no other In a sense that we played music that we have never played before, and preformed like no other. This experience change on how I play my instrument and how I perform for future concerts.
3 comments

Jacob Nelson 6m
Mark Wood breaks the normal expectations for an Orchestra, but he brought us an experience of rock and a sliver of classical combined, thus forever changing my view on music. ~Jacob Nelson

Jacob Collins 6m
Mark Wood concerts really are a lot better than school concerts because he encourages you to have fun, and you don't have to be so formal.

Jacob Collins 5m
^Jacob Collins, I forgot to sign it


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Jacob Nelson
Jacob Nelson
Mark Wood has provided us a extraordinary experience to grow as musicians. Ever since the last time he came to Oshkosh, we have been striving to be the best musicians we can be, and with our concert held recently, we proved to Mark Wood that we have grown. We not only grew over the years, we became better musicians just by practicing his music. Every note that flows off your instrument helps you improve the skill you have, and we can credit Mark Wood for giving us this opportunity to play with him. 
2 comments

Anonymous 8m
I agree we have differently have grown and have become better musicians since that last time that he came - Rebekah Schaalma

Anonymous 6m
I also think that we have grown to be better musicians and the we will be even better if he ever comes back to Oshkosh- Bobby Wing


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Sierra Stadtmueller
Sierra Stadtmueller
 

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Ashley Philipp
Ashley Philipp
Working with Mark Wood was an incredible experience. Rather than sitting down and playing with a rather stoic expression, we were all encouraged to stand up and move around with a smile on our faces. This pushed some of my classmates and I out of our comfort zones and made the concert more exciting to play at. The amount of people along with the lights, multilevel stage, and choir really made the concert feel more authentic and I think that it also added a new dimension to the experience over all. This experience reminded me the importance of playing music that I genuinely enjoy and consistently listen to. I was also surprised to find that I could play music which I had previously believed was above my ability. 
 

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Jacob Collins
Jacob Collins
This experience taught me that even when a song seems really challenging, it can be overcome. I don't usually play 6-paged songs, so Planet Jackson seemed intimidating, but in the end it was really fun to play. Mark Wood also taught me, and many other people, I imagine, how to have more fun while playing than usual. Typically, orchestras are rather stiff while playing, and it's not particularly fun to watch. It's a lot more fun to move around while playing, because it makes you feel more energetic, and also makes it more fun to watch while in the audience. Working with Mark Wood teaches you how to be a better performer, which allows you to put on better shows at concerts, which is a great skill to have as a performer, and something Mark Wood does really well.
 

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Zade Alzoubi
Zade Alzoubi
I think that this experience with Mark Wood was one of the best things we could do to improve wholly as an orchestra and personally. The whole workshop and the dress reversals were very fun because he gave us pointers telling us to move around while we play, and to have fun. Usually I am used to playing in a concert in nice clothes, but this concert and experience was way more fun because we didn't just play music we made music together with Mark Wood. 
1 comment

Anonymous 10m
I thought so too! I liked not having to dress up and it being a different style of concert. I also liked being able to move and have choreography.-Reese Meszaros


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Reese Meszaros
Reese Meszaros 
When Mark Wood came to OASD the first time, I was in sixth grade, so I don't specifically remember a lot of what we did. This time, I know I will remember what we did and the fun we had. I had to push myself to learn the songs, which were a lot harder than songs I had done before. Mark Wood does a great job of working with everyone and making it a meaningful experience. The feeling on stage when everyone was cheering was awesome! I was so excited to perform and I also really enjoyed the songs we did. Thanks to Mark Wood and the students who worked so hard to make it a great concert!
6 comments

Anonymous 12m
I agree that this time I definitely had to push myself to learn the music! But in the end it was so worth it and the end experience was so cool! -Keerthana Ambati

Anonymous 10m
I agree this time was way more remember able then the first time that he came.- Rebekah Schaalma

Anonymous 10m
I agree, this time the music was much more challenging. I think that it added another layer to the experience because we were forced to spend more time and effort learning the music. This also made the concert itself more rewarding because we were challenged by the music. -Ashley Philipp

Jacob Nelson 9m
The experience we had with Mark Wood before was a ´once in a lifetime´ thing that not many orchestra students can brag about. But now that he came for a second time, I can remember this experience for a life time!

Jacob Nelson 8m
^ ~Jacob Nelson

Anonymous 6m
I agree, when the crowd was cheering it definitely made me feel successful. -Aubrie VanDeHey


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Kylie Bishop
Kylie Bishop 
I think this was an overall great experience!! I had played with Mark before but I didn't like it as must as I liked this one! I really enjoyed playing all of the songs they were all so different but all so unique, every song had their challenges but every song also has that one spot where you just get lost in the peace. I feel that this experience has made me a better Cellist and an overall better musician. I would like if he would come again he made everything on stage so surreal and made every little thing so exciting! He made us move and become the music rather than just being a Statue. This was an overall great concert
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Bretta Eggebeen
Bretta Eggebeen 
I thought this experience was way better than when Mark Wood came when I was in 6th grade. The concert was more fun and a better experience in general. It will always be an experience I will remember from all the years I've played my violin. Mark Wood has helped me grow as a musician by making me believe I can play anything and improved my skill. I'm so happy I was apart of this.  
3 comments

Anonymous 9m
I agree! This experience with Mark Wood was awesome and gave the confidence that I can play anything on the violin and that there are NO LIMITS! -Keerthana Ambati

Anonymous 4m
This corncert was amazing! Mark improved all of our skills and he was just so nice and helped us. This concert was one to remember!- Breck Patrick

Anonymous 1m
My first time playing with Mark Wood was fun but this time was way better than it. I will also remember this experience because of how different and exciting it was. Playing the more modern music we did was fun and new improving our playing. - Ella Daly


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Sam Blaskowski
Sam Blaskowski
3 years ago when I was in 6th grade I thought the experience with Mark Wood was the craziest time of my life and that the music would never get better then that. When I found out that he was coming back I was so excited and nervous at the same time. Mark told us just to play our hearts out and not worry about anything else. All the songs we played as a group were so fun because rock music you can express yourself so much more the classical and slow music. This was a wonderful experience with Mark and was the time of my life and I hope I can get this chance again.
1 comment

Anonymous 15m
I agree! this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I hope we have the chance to work with him again -Zade Alzoubi


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Keerthana Ambati
Keerthana Ambati
This experience helped me grow as a musician because it showed me how music can bring everyone together. From all ages, to all schools, and all types of music- everyone came together and showed their passion for music. I think it was awesome that the choir got involved and that Oshkosh as a community came together for something that I was involved in! I feel like I enjoyed this Mark Wood concert way more than the last time he came because I was able to come out of my shell and really enjoy the music and dance and play passionately. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! 
4 comments

Anonymous 10m
I also think that this concert was way better quality than the first time he came. This concert was way more fun! Bretta Eggebeen

Anonymous 8m
I agree! Everybody can make music together. We should do more collaborations with choir and band. - Breck Patrick

Anonymous 7m
I did feel like this concert was better than the last time, probably because the Menominee Arena is a better venue for this kind of concert compared to Alberta Kimball Auditorium -Nathan Kopper

Anonymous 1m
I also a agree that it helped me come out of my shell and have fun and helped us come together.-Mishle Ahmad


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Rebekah Schaalma
Rebekah Schaalma
The first time Mark Wood came was when I was in 7th grade . He made sure we had a fun experience playing our music with him.  But this time it was a whole different experience. Mark Wood showed us that playing in orchestras can be fun thing. That it is not just sitting down playing classical music, that we can also play rock and role . I am quit happy that I was able to work with him, and I hope that we will be able to play with him again.
2 comments

Anonymous 12m
I agree I like that he showed us you don't just have to play classical music, you can play many genres and it sounds really cool!-Reese Meszaros

Anonymous 3m
I agree he showed us that being in an orchestra doesn't mean that we can't be outside the box with our performances. -Aubrie VanDeHey


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Amelia Reed
Amelia Reed
There is no feeling more incredible than that which a musician feels when they feel as if they have grown in their craft. Playing my violin in front of people has always, since I began playing 11 years ago, been an incredibly nerve-wracking experience for me. Don’t get me wrong, I love playing my instrument and I love the feeling of playing with an orchestra, but the nerves always find their way to me. With Mark Wood, however, it’s different. He has a passion and an energy that makes students feel empowered and confident in their talents. He walks around the stage playing his six-stringed instrument and encourages students to move around, smile, and have fun playing some of the world’s greatest rock pieces. I had the opportunity to play one of the electric violins at the concert, and I was not nervous or afraid of messing up; I was just beyond excited to be making amazing music with a professional musician, my talented peers, and with a huge audience supporting us. I have been lucky enough to perform with Mark Wood twice, and both times I have gained confidence in myself, been proud beyond measure of my fellow orchestra peers, and seen the community come together to support public school students in one of the greatest gifts we have on this earth -- music. Mark Wood, in his few days he spends in workshops with students, helps them grow monumentally. He inspires the future generations of musicians, promotes the arts in schools, and makes a major splash in our community. For that I am beyond grateful.

 

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Emily Luebke
Emily Luebke
When our class first worked with Mark Wood, he made sure all of us had fun while playing our instruments. This experience showed me the importance of having fun with me and my instrument, but it also taught me the importance of having fun with my fellow orchestra classmates. It was nice playing music that not a lot of us as students are used to playing during the school year. I'm so thankful I had the opportunity to be involved in such a fun experience! 
3 comments

Anonymous 41m
I agree, also you rocked in the viper with Mark Wood. Im glad that you had an amazing experience :) -Grace Luebke

Jacob Collins 8m
Having fun while playing is great, not just because it feels great to have fun, but also because it makes the concert more enjoyable for the audience, so it's great that Mark Wood puts an emphasis on that. -Jacob Collins

Anonymous 4m
I feel that being able to have fun forms a sense of family within the orchestra -Nathan Kopper


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Gabrielle Raddatz
Gabrielle Raddatz
This was truly an experience of a life time. Mark wood is such an amazing person and is so talented with everything he does, he is very into the energy of the whole experience. it really is an amazing opportunity to be able to work with such amazing musicians and learn how things can be so up beat. this really was an amazing experience.
 

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Micayla Sawicki
Micayla Sawicki
1 comment

Anonymous 10m
I definitely had those feelings of feeling anxious before when performing in front of an audience. My fingers would get shakey or even sweaty which would prevent me from playing with the correct fingerings correctly when performing, but after the Mark Wood Concert I definitely felt more comfortable to perform in front of a large audience, even if I wasn't one of the soloist playing in front of the stage with Mark. I definitely feel like I stood outside of my comfort zone more as well. ~ Aaron Thao ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ


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Sarah Lairson
Sarah Lairson
It was such a great experience to work with Mark Wood again. He is such a talented musician with so much experience in all genres, and makes playing and performing so much different than we normally get to. He teaches us to express and feel the music, and he also stresses following your own path in life when he tells about his experiences at Julliard. This had made me a better musician not only because the music was challenging at times but also because he provides a unique perspective on musical genres that we typically dont get to play. 
2 comments

Anonymous 2h
I agree Sarah! I also enjoyed learning about his life and getting the challenging music. I liked the genre of music and thought it was very different from what we normally do! -Ariana

Anonymous 2h
I agree Sarah! His story about figuring out who he was and swimming against the stream to truly be who he was was very inspiring for me too especially since I'll be in college next year. -Natalie Jackson


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Katrina Baker
Katrina Baker
Normally, all Orchestras are the same. Sit down, have good posture, and play whatever classical piece is in front of you. Not only was my perception on Orchestra itself affected the first time Mark Wood was here, but this time it was a new experience with new people. With the Choirs added in and with Laura Kaye it gave the experience a whole new feeling.
1 comment

Anonymous 1m
I agree, having the choirs there totally made the experience that much better. I also agree with you about the whole classical thing, playing rock on a classical instrument is so fun! - Reese Lang


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Nithya Ambati
Nithya Ambati 
The anticipation for the Mark Wood concert was nothing compared to the actual experience! It was an amazing show, and it was very fun to be a part of something where musicians all around Oshkosh come together. 
Looking back at the last Mark Wood concert, I was still too shy to move around while I played. But this year was much different! I was able to do the dances to every song, and I found that the experience had a deeper impact when I engaged in this way. I was having fun while I played, and this is what mattered the most to me! 
The environment was always positive, and I was grateful for the time to play a new genre with all my orchestra peers! 

1 comment

Anonymous 2h
I agree that I think this year I was more confident moving during the pieces and that I was more comfortable playing the pieces. I think that it was a different atmosphere performing than practicing which was a great point to bring up! -Ariana


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Pax Lynch
Pax Lynch
This experience was definitely something that I loved the first time, and the second time around. I loved the different type of energy that was being put into the rock type music, it's a nice break from the more classical style. I love everything to do with orchestra, the music, my friends, and experiences like these just strengthen the bonds between us, and improve our skills as musicians.
4 comments

Michael Schmidt 2h
PAX YOU WERE ELECTRIC!!! Being able to rock out the way you did was good motivation to getting myself out of my comfort zone. You made this experience very fun for this whole class with the energy you brought. - Michael Schmidt

Anonymous 2h
I love what you said I so agree! I felt closer with everyone after this whole experience and I was lucky to do this twice too, as you said. Thank you for being my model rocker!! :) -Micayla Sawicki

Anonymous 2h
I also really enjoyed playing a different type of music to what we usually play in orchestra. It was cool to see everyone else letting loose and rocking out to the music. -Catherine

Anonymous 36m
I agree with you Pax when you said that you have a different type of energy because you get to move and play along the music as you go. Now matter what type of rock or pop music that you play, you will still feel the grove. - Grace Luebke


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Dylan Lippold
Dylan Lippold 
I grew as a musician as I had been pushed out of my comfort zone with playing a stringed instrument. I was also challenged with multiple difficult songs that had pushed me as a musician when it came to things such as bowing and shifting. It was also a very cool experience to play in front of a large audience outside of the formal school audience. Overall it was an exciting and enjoyable experience. 
5 comments

Anonymous 2h
I think lots of people were really pushed out of their comfort zones, so you weren't alone! But everyone embraced the experience and did an amazing job. -Alexis Cochrane

Anonymous 2h
Wow Dylan! This is an amazing picture! I agree and I'm glad you've expanded out of your comfort zone, that is very brave of you. I agree though, the audience was super cool to play for. -Sarah

Michael Schmidt 2h
BOOM SHAKA LAKA Dylan I witnessed you get pushed out of your comfort zone. It was very cool to see as you are a very held back low key person. - Michael Schmidt

Anonymous 2h
I agree! It really pushed me out of my comfort zone like when we had to dance and move around on the stage. - Ike Kohl

Anonymous 5m
I think that by playing in front of so many people we gained an incredible experience that not many other high schoolers are able to have. Personally, I think that I grew as a musician because I was able to play in front of so many people without panicking or messing up the songs that I played in. -Ashley Philipp


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Marisa Randall
Marisa Randall
The experience was definitely bigger honestly a lot better than the first time Mark Wood had come to play with us. I felt like I was more into the concert than I would normally be since I'm normal quiet and shy, but this music drew me out and I got to move around and the music helped me get into it, especially considering the music genre we were playing is a genre I love. 
It felt like an entire different experience and an entirely different world when playing that type of music and in front of a larger crowd, it felt like a rock experience that Mark Wood and Laura Kaye were aiming for, and I loved it, it was so much more different than the normal music we play and I felt like it drew me out more since it was a different type of music and a whole new experience. I felt that I could do a lot more as a musician because of it. 
 

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Michael Schmidt
Michael Schmidt
I grew as a musician through playing out with much more confidence. This experience got me to move and enjoy the music on a different level. I was able to play with energy of moving and swinging around which is something I rarely do. I grew as a musician by playing a different type of music and performing in a whole new way. Overall this experience was life changing as it is something I have never done before.  IT WAS ELECTRIC!!!!!
2 comments

Anonymous 2h
I feel the same! I never really moved or swayed when I played my violin but the concert made me step out of my comfort zone and I will never regret doing that. -Micayla Sawicki

Anonymous 37m
I totally agree with you!! This concert was life changing for sure and definitely a concert that I will remember for the rest of my life. - Ike Kohl


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Natalie Jackson
Natalie Jackson
I remember when Mark came my freshman year and how working with him provided me with the confidence in my music and myself that I needed to succeed in orchestra and high school. When I heard he was coming back I was ecstatic. Mark Wood really enjoys what he does and makes every student feel as though he cares about them. It was great to be able to work with him again because I got to improve on my music skills as well as got to spend time with a legendary musician. Like freshman year, the Mark Wood has given me the courage and confidence in myself to once again take on all of the things life throws my way.
3 comments

Anonymous 2h
Hey Natalie! I agree that this second experience truly made the first one way better! After we knew what to expect and we were older in high school we were able to loosen up and have more fun than the first time! I really hope everyone gets to experience this more than once in their life. -- Katie Landolt

Anonymous 2h
I totally agree! I had so much fun playing with you! Playing with all our classmates and Mark Wood definitely boosted my confidence and reminded me why I play my instrument- Emily Luebke

Anonymous 2m
I agree that Mark Wood really loves music and helping other people get better. He definitely helps people to come out of their shells to be more confident when playing in the orchestra.- Bobby Wing


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Ali Jensen
Ali Jensen
I grew as a musician from this experience because it made me realize the possibilities music creates, and how important it is in everyone's lives. It helped me to see how effective it is in bringing incredible amounts of people together. Seeing so many people enjoy the same music brings a lot of light to the importance of music in general. 
 

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Tim Hoeppner
Tim Hoeppner
This concert was the most incredible experience when it comes to music, that I have ever had. From the complete shift from the paradigm of classical composers and well articulated execution of music, to the rougher, rock and roll genre that takes a preconceived notion of classical instruments and throws it out the window. Mark Wood has had an impact on every individual in attendance of this concert, and all responses were positive. The joy of the middle school children to the determination and excitement of the high school individuals, this event was one for all ages to hold in their minds for quite some time, and I hope to get the opportunity to play with Mark Wood in the future, very soon.
4 comments

Anonymous 2h
I definitely agree Tim! I really think it's cool that Mark Wood is able to make an nontraditional approach to a traditional styled instrument. It was a great experience. - Dylan Lippold

Anonymous 2h
I have to agree. Even though my forte is more of a classical style, I really enjoyed playing a different style to give my mind a break. -Pax

Anonymous 2h
I believe Mr. Scott would appreciate your use of the musical paradigm, and I definitely agree with your points. This concert was awesome and I feel like the audience enjoyed it - sarah lairson

Anonymous 2h
also you should rap for everyone


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Grace Halstead
Grace Halstead
I love hanging out with all my orchestra friends for the whole day!! Seeing Mark Wood and Laura Kaye made me realize all the opportunities I have as a musician and I don't necessarily  have to chose a job in the STEM field. When we got the music it seemed overwhelming but every week we seemed to improve and by showtime I felt so comfortable with the songs that moving around and dancing wasn't even a problem. 
7 comments

Anonymous 2h
Wow Grace! I feel the same way! It was such an awesome experience and The Arts are still wonderful and fun occupations to go into!

Anonymous 2h
It is definitely true that every week we improved drastically. By the time the show came around I could play parts that I couldn't play the day before which was amazing and fun. I also agree that it is always fun to have an amazing experience like this but to also be able to share it with your friends and spend time with each other for a whole day! - Whitney Tank

Anonymous 2h
I agree with you! The whole experience was like an orchestra bonding day and I feel like we all enjoyed the music. -Ihsan

Anonymous 2h
Amber= Wow Grace!

Anonymous 2h
Being able to hang out with friends all day while playing music was a lot of fun! Also to see how much we improved in the weeks we had the music was amazing. - Natalie Anderson

Anonymous 2h
Being able to move around and play, made me go out of my comfortable zone also and have a great time and enjoy the music. -Jb

Anonymous 2m
I definitely felt the same way when working with Mark. Playing on stage while dancing and moving around for me went from being scared from judgement of others to just having fun and jamming on stage with friends and with other great musicians. - Aaron Thao ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ


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Alexis Cochrane
Alexis Cochrane
I learned how amazing it is when a large group of students come together to do something and how great it can be. It was so much fun to have the middle schoolers with us this time and it made this experience incredibly rewarding. My favorite part was the finale because it had the most amount of students coming together to play a song. This picture is definitely my favorite because you can see how many people are involved in this. It was so much fun to see everyone having fun and enjoying themselves. 
3 comments

Anonymous 2h
I also enjoyed the finale the most, because that many people making music together is beautiful, and inspiring to me. -Pax

Anonymous 2h
I agree! It was awesome to have so many students come together all enjoying the same music! I also enjoyed including the middle schoolers, and the choir students because it added to the overall energy of the experience! -Nithya

Anonymous 2h
I also agree that playing with the middle schoolers was fun especially since I was able to see my sister play. -Jb


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Catherine Philipp
Catherine Philipp
This experience helped me grow as a musician because it pushed me out of my comfort zone of playing only classical music. After this concert I was able to play more complicated pieces, this will make it easier for me to sight read new pieces in the future. 
1 comment

Anonymous 2h
For me, I've always wanted to do something like this and being pushed into a different comfort zone that the one I was used to was pretty fun! -Katrina


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Ike Kohl
Ike Kohl
I really had a lot of fun playing in the mark wood concert because we played a lot of songs that we would not normally play in orchestra like rock and roll stuff. I didn't think that I would like moving around on stage but once we started doing it I realized how much fun it was.  
2 comments

Anonymous 2h
I felt the same way, but I was glad I was pushed out of my comfort zone, because it turned out to be more fun! I also liked that these songs were ones we knew, so it made it all the more fun to play! -Nithya

Anonymous 2h
Yeah! The songs we played definitally were not traditional orchestra songs, and the overall mood of the musicians on stage was awesome! Anthony Rusch


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Andrew Pendell
Andrew Pendell
This experience allowed me to expand my skills as a musician by letting me play a wider variety of music than I am used to playing in class. One part of this experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life was during the piece viva la vida, in which so many were able to shine from the crowd.
1 comment

Anonymous 2h
It definitely was a lot different than normal, the genre of music must have been a good factor to it.


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Katrina Baker
Katrina Baker
Normally, all Orchestras are the same. Sit down, have good posture, and play whatever classical piece is in front of you. Not only was my perception on Orchestra itself affected the first time Mark Wood was here, but this time it was a new experience with new people. With the Choirs added in and with Laura Kaye it gave the experience a whole new feeling.
1 comment

Anonymous 2h
I agree, I thought it was exciting to be playing different music and it was fun to be on stage again with Mark Wood. -Catherine


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Kaitlynn Ewing
Kaitlynn Ewing
I learned how much passion I have for playing! Mark Wood opened my eyes by showing that you can play other music other than classical music on a string instrument. It was so much fun hanging out with all of my friends. It brought me closer to some people and I am so grateful for that! This was the very first concert that my brother and I were able to play together and we both enjoyed it. It was so much fun! 
 

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Ariana Jiricka
Ariana Jiricka 
This experience helped me to play more confidently during the performance and to see what is all possible from an orchestra. I was able to learn new techniques and songs as well as meet new people during the performance. I also was able to move while I was playing which is normally intimidating to me and pushed me out of my comfort zone. I really enjoyed hanging out with my friends and pushing past the challenges. 
 

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Katie Landolt
Katie Landolt 
Having Mark Wood come and play with my High School orchestra, and put on this show, was truly an unforgettable experience. He broke us out of our shells with fun music and cool dance moves, Mark Wood has a fire for a personality, and working with him was amazing. As a musician I feel changed for the better, I am more free and able to express myself in my music and everyday life. As for our orchestra, our community has grown and flourished over the past few weeks. We have more trust and respect for each other after rocking out together. I would not trade this experience for any other orchestral experience. Keeping music alive in elementary, middle, and high schools, is essential to nourishing the young minds of the next generation.  

2 comments

Anonymous 2h
I feel the same way Katie. This experience was amazing and the way he encourages students to be themselves is amazing. -Natalie Jackson

Anonymous 2h
Hi Katie! I agree! I feel like this experience for a lot of students really gave us all the chance to express ourselves musically in a way we don't really get to do normally during the school year! This experience really brought alot of the orchdorks together for the better!- Emily Luebke


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Mark Wood Reflection: Jason Kluck
Mark Wood Reflection: Jason Kluck
What I was able to get from this concert was that i was able to increase my confidence in my ability to be able to play in front of a big crowd let alone anyone.
1 comment

Anonymous 2h
The cincert definitally help my confidence in front of a crowd as well. An experience luke this may only come once in a lifetime. Anthony Rusch


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Jb Rico
Jb Rico
Being able to see Mark Wood again was a thrilling experience. As a musician, I was able to expand the type of music we played. Apart from playing classical music, we were given the opportunity to play rock and roll music. Which introduced more fun and exciting rhythms. It gave me a broader view of what is possible to play in orchestra. This concert also was able to bring different orchestras from different schools together to create amazing music. 
 

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Diondre Thon
Diondre Thon
I learned from the Mark Wood experience was that it takes energy to play. When you you use energy, it looks better as a performer and even sound better. You will be a better musician if you just have fun with what you are doing and having  energy helps make it look and sound better.
 

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Ihsan Rizky
Ihsan Rizky
I truly enjoyed playing in the Mark Wood concert because I found my passion for playing the violin again. I actually enjoyed practicing the violin and the music at home because the music was so fun! I feel blessed to have been able to take part in the whole Mark Wood experience. Before the whole experience, I was lazy to bring my instrument home, but as the concert approached, I started bringing home my instrument on the weekends because I liked the music so much. 
3 comments

Anonymous 2h
Wow awesome picture Ihsan! I feel the same way. I would always be very reluctant to bring my violin home and practice. I felt like the music was always stuck in my head and it was a lot of fun to play. -Grace Halstead

Anonymous 2h
I also agree that this concert was able to put us into our comfort zone if we are not used to playing classical music, because rock is a different way to play that could be preferred to some of us.

Anonymous 2h
Great picture! That's great that you were able to get excited again about playing the violin due to this concert. -Dylan Lippold


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Aaron Thao ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ
Aaron Thao ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ
During my Mark Wood Concert experience I guess I became more flexible as a musician and a bit more confident in myself as a performer on stage. My overall experience in the workshops and concert was overall positive and getting the chance to play with String and Symphony Orchestra on stage was super fun as well. ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ  
3 comments

Anonymous 38m
Im happy that you are flexable with your music talets because it helps your imroves your as a musician. Rock on!! -Grace Luebke

Anonymous 5m
I am glad you enjoyed the moment and loved playing during this amazing experience, Thank you and thank Emily for helping out the viola section in string.

Anonymous 5m
-Drew Best


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Natalie Anderson
Natalie Anderson
This experience has broadened my view of what is possible while playing a string orchestra instrument. Like playing a hard rock song was something that was new and exciting to learn. All the songs in the program pushed my abilities and I was able to learn and play the music.  It was also fun to move around and dance a little which I used to hate doing while playing my instrument. Mark made it fun to dance while still keeping it simple enough so that we wouldn't forget the moves.
4 comments

Anonymous 2h
It is true that working with Mark Wood opens everyone's eyes to what is possible with a string instrument. Most people think that string instruments can only play classical music but this proves that there is so much more that can be done with them. -Whitney Tank

Anonymous 2h
Yes! I love that Mark Wood opened us to playing different genres. I think that everyone thinks orchestra is boring because all we play is classical music. I love how the Oskohsh community could come truly have the Mark Wood experience! Grace Halstead

Anonymous 2h
I agree hard rock is not something I usually associate with an Orchestra, but I thought is was a phenomenal concert and I loved the rock concert even though I also like classical music.

Anonymous 2h
Amber = I agree hard rock is not something ...


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Amber Wiedenhoeft
Amber Wiedenhoeft
I think I grew as a musician musically, emotionally and physically. I was able to improve my knowledge of multiple songs, as well as how to play different rhythm patterns and combinations of notes. Emotionally I think we all were able to get excited about playing music together in a concert because it was so cool, in a big arena with cool lights and sound! We all enjoyed the experience and were able to actually move with the music. We were able to rock out with everyone in the Orchestra, Choir, Mark Wood and Laura Kay. It was a fantastic experience and very exciting!!!!

 

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Whitney Tank
Whitney Tank
I grew in the way that I was able to play music that was much more complicated than I was able to before.  It allowed me to grow and become much more confident when I'm playing and allows me to think that I can play music that is more difficult than what we normally play and do it successfully.  This also allowed me to become more comfortable with moving when I am playing and not having to worry as much about loosing my place when I do move.

3 comments

Anonymous 2h
It's true! This music was incredibly intimidating at first but everyone learned so many technical skills in a short period of time and grew as musicians. -Alexis Cochrane

Anonymous 2h
I agree with the fact that this concert allowed us to move more and feel more passionate in what we are doing it for.

Anonymous 2h
I agree with you! When we first got the music I was very intimidated by Planet Jackson because of its length and difficulty. As time went on, Planet Jackson became one of my favorite pieces from the concert. -Ihsan


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Grace Luebke
Grace Luebke 
My experience with Mark Wood was a blast. This is my second time making wonderful pop/ rock music again with Mark Wood. In my past playing experience playing with Mark Wood, eighth grade year was a good start to play music and jam out, but when we played with the Oshkosh North and West Orchestra and Choir, we made beautiful progress with all of the time and practices that we had. I enjoyed playing the Planet Jackson as a whole group because we had a collage of the top Jackson songs. I love dancing with my instrument in a beat because you can play and dance in any tempo anytime. It was an amazing experience playing with all of my orch dorks and choir nerds out there!!
5 comments

Anonymous 2h
Hey Grace ! I totally agree that this second experience with the choir was amazing! Getting everyone involved and coming together was so fun. I really hope that this continues to grow in years to come and that future generations have a chance to experience Mark Wood. --Katie Landolt

Anonymous 2h
Playing with choir was a really fun experience! All together we made some really awesome music and being able to dance the way you wanted to was a great way to get us involved with what we were doing. - Natalie Anderson

Anonymous 2h
I thought the same way. I'm glad I wasn't the only one! -Katrina

Anonymous 2h
I agree with you Grace and Katie! The second time was way more fun. Having everyone involved made the experience a whole lot better! -Kaitlynn Ewing

Anonymous 4m
I agree, I had so much fun playing with you and Planet Jackson was definitely my favorite song!


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When Mark Wood came to OASD the first time, I was in sixth grade, so I don't specifically remember a lot of what we did. This time, I know I will remember what we did and the fun we had. I had to push myself to learn the songs, which were a lot harder than songs I had done before. Mark Wood does a great job of working with everyone and making it a meaningful experience. The feeling on stage when everyone was cheering was awesome! I was so excited to perform and I also really enjoyed the songs we did. Thanks to Mark Wood and the students who worked so hard to make it a great concert!

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Working with Mark Wood was a memorable experience. He taught us how to play more modern music in the orchestra and how to add expression into our music when we play. He taught us how to move around when we play. It was fun to see the the arena was almost full of people just to see the orchestra and choir. Hopefully this will cause more people to keep coming to our concerts.

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When I moved here I never knew who Mark Wood was, probably because we didn't have an orchestra class. I started on cello in 8th grade and half way through I switched to bass because I enjoy playing the lower sounding instruments. When I started playing bass I started on electric as well which brought me to listening to rock music. The experience made me realize that you can do so much more than sit down and play classical music. I really enjoyed having them come to Oshkosh!

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I have always had a love for classic rock music. I have also had a love for the cello and the classical sound of a full orchestra. The Mark Wood experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity to be able to combine two things that I never thought could come together. The feeling of preforming these pieces that we had worked on for so long was so rewarding and such an amazing feeling. Mark Wood is much more than a musical guest, but in fact a influence that will effect my ,musical career in high school orchestra forever. Mark Wood pushed all of us to play outside of our comfort zone and in result will effect how we play our classical musical as well in the future. I am so beyond thankful that I was able to be involved in the Mark Wood experience and I hope that many more kids will be able to experience it as well and have the same amount of fun I did.

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Throughout my whole orchestra career I have only been in a tuxedo and had to sit down to play my music. this concert was like no other In a sense that we played music that we have never played before, and preformed like no other. This experience change on how I play my instrument and how I perform for future concerts.

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I think I grew as a musician musically, emotionally and physically. I was able to improve my knowledge of multiple songs, as well as how to play different rhythm patterns and combinations of notes. Emotionally I think we all were able to get excited about playing music together in a concert because it was so cool, in a big arena with cool lights and sound! We all enjoyed the experience and were able to actually move with the music. We were able to rock out with everyone in the Orchestra, Choir, Mark Wood and Laura Kay. It was a fantastic experience and very exciting!!!!

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Mark Wood has provided us a extraordinary experience to grow as musicians. Ever since the last time he came to Oshkosh, we have been striving to be the best musicians we can be, and with our concert held recently, we proved to Mark Wood that we have grown. We not only grew over the years, we became better musicians just by practicing his music. Every note that flows off your instrument helps you improve the skill you have, and we can credit Mark Wood for giving us this opportunity to play with him.

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I feel that being part of the Mark Wood concert made me grow as a musician. It was a fun experience and definitely something to remember. We have performed with Mark more then once and every time we perform with him he inspires me to work harder and do my best. I know that it's OK to make a mistake and take action. I loved how the whole concert turned out. I can't thank Mark enough for being so supportive of us throughout the experience.

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The difference between the first and second time we preformed with Mark Wood was astonishing to me, my peers, and my family even thought it was so much more enteraining because of how all the musicians played with passion and expression. Personally, this experience helped me realize that confidence is key when playing music, becuse as long as your confident in what you are doing, people will appreciate what your doing stylistically. In addition, my family also thought it was very cool how he choir asspect was included this time arround, I think it comes to show that two "classical" musician groups can really rock out and do whatever they was to stylisically do. This experience really opened my eyes about what being different, and trying new things does for musicans, and how musicians that are different are so unique and special in the musical world.

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Working with Mark Wood was an incredible experience. Rather than sitting down and playing with a rather stoic expression, we were all encouraged to stand up and move around with a smile on our faces. This pushed some of my classmates and I out of our comfort zones and made the concert more exciting to play at. The amount of people along with the lights, multilevel stage, and choir really made the concert feel more authentic and I think that it also added a new dimension to the experience over all. This experience reminded me the importance of playing music that I genuinely enjoy and consistently listen to. I was also surprised to find that I could play music which I had previously believed was above my ability.

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I think that the Mark Wood experience taught us how much expression can go into an orchestra, and that we don't have to play classical music. It showed the audience that we are something more than soft string instruments and we can play rock infused music and have a stadium fill up. Mark Wood made us grow as musicians and made us more confident in what we are playing by playing with movement and energy. I think we all should be grateful to have this experience with him this year and hope to have him work with us again!

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This experience has allowed me to gain confidence in myself and my ability to play the cello in ways that the typical music we play in class never has. I got to develop new skills that I had not previously had the opportunities to capitalize on. Rock music requires a different mindset and a different set of skills that pushed my known limits to the edge until I changed my playing style to the point that it is unrecognizable.

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This experience taught me that even when a song seems really challenging, it can be overcome. I don't usually play 6-paged songs, so Planet Jackson seemed intimidating, but in the end it was really fun to play. Mark Wood also taught me, and many other people, I imagine, how to have more fun while playing than usual. Typically, orchestras are rather stiff while playing, and it's not particularly fun to watch. It's a lot more fun to move around while playing, because it makes you feel more energetic, and also makes it more fun to watch while in the audience. Working with Mark Wood teaches you how to be a better performer, which allows you to put on better shows at concerts, which is a great skill to have as a performer, and something Mark Wood does really well.

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When I was in 6th grade I remember Mark Wood coming, now I can see how much it's improved and has made a larger impact on the community. This experience taught me that it's okay for orchestra to be more than the classical formal way. I think adding movement to the performance made it more real and meaningful. Mark really made sure that we enjoyed what we were doing while we were on the stage. This experience also taught me that it's okay to play loud and not be afraid of that.

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The Mark Wood experience was a very important growth in our music careers. We learned about playing with more movement and how to loosen up when playing. The songs we played were challenging and very rewarding to learn.

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I think that this experience with Mark Wood was one of the best things we could do to improve wholly as an orchestra and personally. The whole workshop and the dress reversals were very fun because he gave us pointers telling us to move around while we play, and to have fun. Usually I am used to playing in a concert in nice clothes, but this concert and experience was way more fun because we didn't just play music we made music together with Mark Wood.

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I think this was an overall great experience!! I had played with Mark before but I didn't like it as must as I liked this one! I really enjoyed playing all of the songs they were all so different but all so unique, every song had their challenges but every song also has that one spot where you just get lost in the peace. I feel that this experience has made me a better Cellist and an overall better musician. I would like if he would come again he made everything on stage so surreal and made every little thing so exciting! He made us move and become the music rather than just being a Statue. This was an overall great concert and I was happy to be apart of it!

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The experience and opportunity to work with Mark Wood was one that was truly unforgettable. Even though this was the second time we worked with him the experience was still different and even better than before. After learning the music our expectation for what was to come was nothing compared to the reality the fun time this was. This second opportunity to work with Mark Wood was one that was full of fun as everyone was working together to make the experience and end result of our concert something beyond compare. Having Mark Wood make sure that all of us were having fun and enjoying the experience was something that kept us all in good spirit giving us the motivation to put out best effort in our performance. Starting as a classical musician and then playing rock music helped me improve on expression while playing and being lively and passionate about playing. All the songs we played were ones that will always remind me of this great time.

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It was a very fun experience working with him two times. This taught me that orchestra isn't just about classical music its about having fun and playing different pieces from different genres. This concert was the best one out of all the concerts throughout the year. I really hope we get to something like this again in the future. This also taught me to improve on the way I play and sound and taught me how to tell a story.

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I thought this experience was way better than when Mark Wood came when I was in 6th grade. The concert was more fun and a better experience in general. It will always be an experience I will remember from all the years I've played my violin. Mark Wood has helped me grow as a musician by making me believe I can play anything and improved my skill. I'm so happy I was apart of this.

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Mark wood came when I was in 7th grade. I thought that concert was not the best thing ever. When I heard he was coming again I wasn't ecstatic about it. As we did our workshops and learned more about of the concert I truly got more excited about this whole experience. I believe that being a better musician this year made me enjoy Mark Wood even more. Mark made us way more confident while playing and told us not to worry about the little things. This year is definitely one to never forget!

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3 years ago when I was in 6th grade I thought the experience with Mark Wood was the craziest time of my life and that the music would never get better then that. When I found out that he was coming back I was so excited and nervous at the same time. Mark told us just to play our hearts out and not worry about anything else. All the songs we played as a group were so fun because rock music you can express yourself so much more the classical and slow music. This was a wonderful experience with Mark and was the time of my life and I hope I can get this chance again.

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This experience helped me grow as a musician because it showed me how music can bring everyone together. From all ages, to all schools, and all types of music- everyone came together and showed their passion for music. I think it was awesome that the choir got involved and that Oshkosh as a community came together for something that I was involved in! I feel like I enjoyed this Mark Wood concert way more than the last time he came because I was able to come out of my shell and really enjoy the music and dance and play passionately. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

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The first time Mark Wood came was when I was in 7th grade . He made sure we had a fun experience playing our music with him.  But this time it was a whole different experience. Mark Wood showed us that playing in orchestras can be fun thing. That it is not just sitting down playing classical music, that we can also play rock and role . I am quit happy that I was able to work with him, and I hope that we will be able to play with him again.

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This concert was one of the most unique that I had taken part in. It both boosted students motivation and self-esteem by allowing students to play less traditional music and allowing them express themselves through the music more. It pushed students out of their comfort zones and aimed at improving/rounding us as musicians. It also showed me another side to music was innovation, and that it was really moving into future with the advanced technology Mark Wood used in his playing. Overall I thought it was a very good program for our music department to partake in, because it helped to raise money and awareness for the Oshkosh music programs.

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This concert was my second concert with Mark Wood, and I feel that after our time with him we have all become better musicians, and all have something to teach others about music, and it was just an overall great experience. His work has inspired me to become better, and grow as a violinist.

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When our class first worked with Mark Wood, he made sure all of us had fun while playing our instruments. This experience showed me the importance of having fun with me and my instrument, but it also taught me the importance of having fun with my fellow orchestra classmates. It was nice playing music that not a lot of us as students are used to playing during the school year. I'm so thankful I had the opportunity to be involved in such a fun experience!

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My musical experience for the last time I played with him to now has changed a lot because last time I played with him I was in middle school and now I'm in high school and its a totally different experience. Both times I had played with him I was on the electrics. I feel I grew a lot as a musician.

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This was truly an experience of a life time. Mark wood is such an amazing person and is so talented with everything he does, he is very into the energy of the whole experience. it really is an amazing opportunity to be able to work with such amazing musicians and learn how things can be so up beat. this really was an amazing experience.

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It was such a great experience to work with Mark Wood again. He is such a talented musician with so much experience in all genres, and makes playing and performing so much different than we normally get to. He teaches us to express and feel the music, and he also stresses following your own path in life when he tells about his experiences at Julliard. This had made me a better musician not only because the music was challenging at times but also because he provides a unique perspective on musical genres that we typically dont get to play.

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Normally, all Orchestras are the same. Sit down, have good posture, and play whatever classical piece is in front of you. Not only was my perception on Orchestra itself affected the first time Mark Wood was here, but this time it was a new experience with new people. With the Choirs added in and with Laura Kaye it gave the experience a whole new feeling.

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The anticipation for the Mark Wood concert was nothing compared to the actual experience! It was an amazing show, and it was very fun to be a part of something where musicians all around Oshkosh come together.
Looking back at the last Mark Wood concert, I was still too shy to move around while I played. But this year was much different! I was able to do the dances to every song, and I found that the experience had a deeper impact when I engaged in this way. I was having fun while I played, and this is what mattered the most to me!
The environment was always positive, and I was grateful for the time to play a new genre with all my orchestra peers!

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This experience was definitely something that I loved the first time, and the second time around. I loved the different type of energy that was being put into the rock type music, it's a nice break from the more classical style. I love everything to do with orchestra, the music, my friends, and experiences like these just strengthen the bonds between us, and improve our skills as musicians.

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I grew as a musician as I had been pushed out of my comfort zone with playing a stringed instrument. I was also challenged with multiple difficult songs that had pushed me as a musician when it came to things such as bowing and shifting. It was also a very cool experience to play in front of a large audience outside of the formal school audience. Overall it was an exciting and enjoyable experience.

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The experience was definitely bigger honestly a lot better than the first time Mark Wood had come to play with us. I felt like I was more into the concert than I would normally be since I'm normal quiet and shy, but this music drew me out and I got to move around and the music helped me get into it, especially considering the music genre we were playing is a genre I love.
It felt like an entire different experience and an entirely different world when playing that type of music and in front of a larger crowd, it felt like a rock experience that Mark Wood and Laura Kaye were aiming for, and I loved it, it was so much more different than the normal music we play and I felt like it drew me out more since it was a different type of music and a whole new experience. I felt that I could do a lot more as a musician because of it.

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I grew as a musician through playing out with much more confidence. This experience got me to move and enjoy the music on a different level. I was able to play with energy of moving and swinging around which is something I rarely do. I grew as a musician by playing a different type of music and performing in a whole new way. Overall this experience was life changing as it is something I have never done before.  IT WAS ELECTRIC!!!!!

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I remember when Mark came my freshman year and how working with him provided me with the confidence in my music and myself that I needed to succeed in orchestra and high school. When I heard he was coming back I was ecstatic. Mark Wood really enjoys what he does and makes every student feel as though he cares about them. It was great to be able to work with him again because I got to improve on my music skills as well as got to spend time with a legendary musician. Like freshman year, the Mark Wood has given me the courage and confidence in myself to once again take on all of the things life throws my way.

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I grew as a musician from this experience because it made me realize the possibilities music creates, and how important it is in everyone's lives. It helped me to see how effective it is in bringing incredible amounts of people together. Seeing so many people enjoy the same music brings a lot of light to the importance of music in general.

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I learned how much passion I have for playing! Mark Wood opened my eyes by showing that you can play other music other than classical music on a string instrument. It was so much fun hanging out with all of my friends. It brought me closer to some people and I am so grateful for that! This was the very first concert that my brother and I were able to play together and we both enjoyed it. It was so much fun!

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This concert was the most incredible experience when it comes to music, that I have ever had. From the complete shift from the paradigm of classical composers and well articulated execution of music, to the rougher, rock and roll genre that takes a preconceived notion of classical instruments and throws it out the window. Mark Wood has had an impact on every individual in attendance of this concert, and all responses were positive. The joy of the middle school children to the determination and excitement of the high school individuals, this event was one for all ages to hold in their minds for quite some time, and I hope to get the opportunity to play with Mark Wood in the future, very soon.

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I love hanging out with all my orchestra friends for the whole day!! Seeing Mark Wood and Laura Kaye made me realize all the opportunities I have as a musician and I don't necessarily have to chose a job in the STEM field. When we got the music it seemed overwhelming but every week we seemed to improve and by showtime I felt so comfortable with the songs that moving around and dancing wasn't even a problem.

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I learned how amazing it is when a large group of students come together to do something and how great it can be. It was so much fun to have the middle schoolers with us this time and it made this experience incredibly rewarding. My favorite part was the finale because it had the most amount of students coming together to play a song. This picture is definitely my favorite because you can see how many people are involved in this. It was so much fun to see everyone having fun and enjoying themselves.

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This experience helped me grow as a musician because it pushed me out of my comfort zone of playing only classical music. After this concert I was able to play more complicated pieces, this will make it easier for me to sight read new pieces in the future.

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I really had a lot of fun playing in the mark wood concert because we played a lot of songs that we would not normally play in orchestra like rock and roll stuff. I didn't think that I would like moving around on stage but once we started doing it I realized how much fun it was.

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This experience allowed me to expand my skills as a musician by letting me play a wider variety of music than I am used to playing in class. One part of this experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life was during the piece viva la vida, in which so many were able to shine from the crowd.

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Normally, all Orchestras are the same. Sit down, have good posture, and play whatever classical piece is in front of you. Not only was my perception on Orchestra itself affected the first time Mark Wood was here, but this time it was a new experience with new people. With the Choirs added in and with Laura Kaye it gave the experience a whole new feeling.

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This experience helped me to play more confidently during the performance and to see what is all possible from an orchestra. I was able to learn new techniques and songs as well as meet new people during the performance. I also was able to move while I was playing which is normally intimidating to me and pushed me out of my comfort zone. I really enjoyed hanging out with my friends and pushing past the challenges.

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Having Mark Wood come and play with my High School orchestra, and put on this show, was truly an unforgettable experience. He broke us out of our shells with fun music and cool dance moves, Mark Wood has a fire for a personality, and working with him was amazing. As a musician I feel changed for the better, I am more free and able to express myself in my music and everyday life. As for our orchestra, our community has grown and flourished over the past few weeks. We have more trust and respect for each other after rocking out together. I would not trade this experience for any other orchestral experience. Keeping music alive in elementary, middle, and high schools, is essential to nourishing the young minds of the next generation.

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What I was able to get from this concert was that i was able to increase my confidence in my ability to be able to play in front of a big crowd let alone anyone.

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Dubbed "The Les Paul of The Violin World" by PBS, Mark Wood is a Juilliard-trained violist who first gained world-wide attention performing with the internationally acclaimed Trans-Siberian Orchestra. In addition to touring as a sideman with world-class artists including Billy Joel, Kanye West, Lenny Kravitz and Celine Dion, Wood is also a recording artist, producer, inventor, Emmy-winning composer and music education advocate.

We're very excited to have recently added several of Mark's pieces to the SmartMusic repertoire library.

Anyone who meets Mark quickly discovers the high level of intensity he brings to everything he does, and there's nothing he's more passionate about than music education. For 16 years he has led Electrify Your Strings (EYS), an intensive music education program that ignites students, teachers, and communities by injecting energy and funding into music education programs.

To date, close to 1,000 schools and universities and hundreds of thousands of young musicians have been transformed by the EYS phenomenon. This week Mark is in Oklahoma working alongside orchestra director Peter Markes (named as the 2014 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year). Last week I spoke to Peter about his experience with EYS:
What initially drew you to Electrify Your Strings?
Two factors: the first was a long-standing desire from several of our instructors to have a high-energy, positive image-building program like Mark's. The other catalyst was a local vendor, Inter-City Violin Studios, who are strong supporters of our string programs and who are Oklahoma's sole Wood distributors.
Can you describe how the EYS program worked at your school last year?
We hosted Mark Wood and Bridgid Bibbens in 2014, and they did a day of workshops with all of our students combined (Mark with about 400 HS students and Bridgid with about 450 MS students). The following day culminated with a dress rehearsal and concert to a standing room only audience. The show closer, Hoedown, with Mark, Bridgid, and over 800 string players was quite memorable.
What benefits did you realize after the workshop?
The students were really excited, and for quite a while. Their long-lasting buzz was the catalyst for having EYS back to Edmond in 2015.
Which schools will be involved this year?
Edmond North, Santa Fe, and Memorial High Schools, and Cheyenne, Cimarron, Sequoyah, Central, and Summit Middle Schools....it's big!
What are your goals for this year's event?
Our goals this year are to expand the venue so that our students and a wider audience can see the whole show. We also continue to maintain Mark's goal of really increasing the student's positive self-image. The music component aside, that is really the biggest benefit and goal to EYS.

MakeMusic clearly shares Mark's passion for increasing positive self-image and keeping music programs alive in the schools. In fact, we're so excited about the energy surrounding EYS that we'll be sponsoring EYS events at several schools this year. If you're interested in such a sponsorship, contact Barbara Ring at [email protected] or 516-767-6677 for more information.

Please note that the deadline for this program is October 31, 2015.

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Mark Wood and Electrify Your Strings | SmartMusic

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Dubbed "The Les Paul of The Violin World" by PBS, Mark Wood is a Juilliard-trained violist who first gained world-wide attention performing with the internationally acclaimed Trans-Siberian Orchestra. In addition to touring as a sideman with world-class artists including Billy Joel, Kanye West, Lenny Kravitz and Celine Dion, Wood is also a recording artist, producer, inventor, Emmy-winning composer and music education advocate.

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Being able to see Mark Wood again was a thrilling experience. As a musician, I was able to expand the type of music we played. Apart from playing classical music, we were given the opportunity to play rock and roll music. Which introduced more fun and exciting rhythms. It gave me a broader view of what is possible to play in orchestra. This concert also was able to bring different orchestras from different schools together to create amazing music.

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I learned from the Mark Wood experience was that it takes energy to play. When you you use energy, it looks better as a performer and even sound better. You will be a better musician if you just have fun with what you are doing and having  energy helps make it look and sound better.

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I truly enjoyed playing in the Mark Wood concert because I found my passion for playing the violin again. I actually enjoyed practicing the violin and the music at home because the music was so fun! I feel blessed to have been able to take part in the whole Mark Wood experience. Before the whole experience, I was lazy to bring my instrument home, but as the concert approached, I started bringing home my instrument on the weekends because I liked the music so much.

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During my Mark Wood Concert experience I guess I became more flexible as a musician and a bit more confident in myself as a performer on stage. My overall experience in the workshops and concert was overall positive and getting the chance to play with String and Symphony Orchestra on stage was super fun as well. ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ

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This experience has broadened my view of what is possible while playing a string orchestra instrument. Like playing a hard rock song was something that was new and exciting to learn. All the songs in the program pushed my abilities and I was able to learn and play the music. It was also fun to move around and dance a little which I used to hate doing while playing my instrument. Mark made it fun to dance while still keeping it simple enough so that we wouldn't forget the moves.

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I grew in the way that I was able to play music that was much more complicated than I was able to before.  It allowed me to grow and become much more confident when I'm playing and allows me to think that I can play music that is more difficult than what we normally play and do it successfully.  This also allowed me to become more comfortable with moving when I am playing and not having to worry as much about loosing my place when I do move.

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My experience with Mark Wood was a blast. This is my second time making wonderful pop/ rock music again with Mark Wood. In my past playing experience playing with Mark Wood, eighth grade year was a good start to play music and jam out, but when we played with the Oshkosh North and West Orchestra and Choir, we made beautiful progress with all of the time and practices that we had. I enjoyed playing the Planet Jackson as a whole group because we had a collage of the top Jackson songs. I love dancing with my instrument in a beat because you can play and dance in any tempo anytime. It was an amazing experience playing with all of my orch dorks and choir nerds out there!!