In 2022, the Rogue Valley Symphony launched an innovative program called “Composers in the Classroom,” bringing together composer Ethan Gans-Morse and the North Medford High School Band led by Steve Kessler. The program aimed to empower students by involving them in the creative process, resulting in a breathtaking original work titled “Battle of the Rogue.” This initiative gave students opportunities to contribute musical motifs and themes, transforming them into active partners in the composition process. Under the guidance of Ethan Gans-Morse, the students’ ideas were woven together to create a cohesive composition. Composers in the Classroom showcased the transformative power of musical collaboration and left a lasting impact on the students’ lives.
After amazing community reception, Composers in the Classroom continued with three composers in 2023, Chelsea Majkut, Ethan Gans-Morse, and Mark Knippel. See the table below for a full list of the artistic works commissioned through this program.
| Composer | Piece | School Premeire | Conductor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chelsea Majkut | "Music of the Water" (2023) | Phoenix High School Band | Mike DeRoest |
| Ethan Gans-Morse | "Undertow" (2023) | Grants Pass High School Chamber Orchestra | Krista DeBolt |
| Mark Knippel | "Party in the Fog" (2023) | Ashland High School Chamber Orchestra | Lauren Trolley |
| Ethan Gans-Morse | “Battle of the Rogue” (2022) | North Medford High School Band | Steve Kessler |
Check out “Undertow” composed by Ethan Gans-Morse in collaboration with Grants Pass High School Chamber Orchestra.
Email us with any questions at: education@rvsymphony.org