Fox Cities News

On February 22, 2025, Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) hosted the Night of 1,000 Strings concert at the Oshkosh North High School Field House. The event, organized by the OASD Music Department in collaboration with the Oshkosh Recreation Department (ORD), featured over 520 orchestra students from various schools within the district. The concert was offered to the public free of charge.

The orchestral performances were directed by educators from the OASD, with Dr. Sam Coleman, the Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, acting as the master of ceremonies. Students were grouped by years of experience, grade level, and skill level, including sixth graders, seventh and eighth graders, as well as students from the Oshkosh North and Oshkosh West string orchestras and symphony orchestras. Additionally, elementary students participating in the ORD's after-school Elementary Orchestra Program also performed.

The program included a lengthy list of compositions ranging from folk songs to classical adaptations and contemporary pieces. All orchestras combined for a grand finale performance of “We Will Rock You” by Queen.

Participants Savannah R., a high school freshman violist, and her brother Anthony R., a fourth-grade cellist, reflected on the experience. Anthony remarked, “It’s fun and it helps make the music sound better than performing with only one of each instrument in the orchestra. If you make a mistake, the other people around you will be able to cover for you.” Savannah added that collaborating with students from other schools made the performance stronger, highlighting the complementary skills each group brought to the concert.

Anthony expressed a willingness to continue playing in an orchestra through his schooling years, saying it is “a good hobby to have.” Savannah also plans to continue with her orchestra involvement through high school, as it provides a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend time.

The OASD Music Department expressed gratitude to everyone involved, including teachers, administrators, the OASD Board of Education, and the families who support the students’ musical endeavors. The event was seen as a great success, with students demonstrating their skills and teamwork.