International recording artist and Emmy award winning composer, Mark Wood, is bringing his groundbreaking music education program, “Electrify Your Strings!” (ESY) to Hillsborough High School.
Wood is an original member of the multi-platinum selling Trans-Siberian Orchestra and creator of the revolutionary Viper electric violin.
This music education program, now in its 19th year, is anticipated to transform Hillsborough student musicians into a full-fledged rock orchestra. Wood is scheduled to perform with the students on his handcrafted seven-string fretted electric Viper violin as part of the EYS “Discovery Tour” on April 6 at 7 p.m. in the Hillsborough High School auditorium.
The audience will be treated to original material as well as Wood’s personal arrangements of music by Led Zeppelin, the Beatles and more.
To prepare for this concert, district officials said that Wood and his team worked directly with Sarah Mederos, Hillsborough’s orchestra director, to tailor design a rock orchestra makeover. The musical arrangements were then sent to the school’s music program for students to practice prior to Wood’s arrival for a two-day workshop.
The workshops are scheduled for April 5-6, and are planned to cover topics such as improvisation, composition and personal expression on their violins, violas, cellos and basses.
The public concert is scheduled on April 6, which is anticipated to culminate work for this special music education program. Officials said that the EYS program is built on a foundation of classical music provided by district music teachers, creating a partnership with education that inspires students and boosts their self-esteem and motivation on-stage and off.
“We are excited to be able to host Electrify Your Strings! this year,” said Sarah Mederos, Hillsborough High School Orchestra Director. “It is truly a unique experience, and an inspirational and motivational event for students and audience members alike.”
Tickets for the event are $10 and may be purchased at the door the night of the performance as well. School district officials said that all proceeds from the concert will go to the school orchestra program.
