With the spring musical coming around the corner, The Lakewood Times wanted to take the time to interview a member of the pit orchestra that will be playing for the musical. I found it necessary to do so because I myself am in Wind Ensemble and I think it’s good to get different perspectives on things. I interviewed the pianist in the pit, Jamie Holland.
How long have you been playing piano?
I started playing when I was six, so it’s been around 11 years now.
What is your favorite piano piece that’s not in the musical
Although it might just be impossible to pick my favorite piece of all time, a song that I have loved for a long time and just spent the last year learning was Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody #2, which I first saw in a Tom and Jerry cartoon as a kid.
What is your favorite piece that is in the musical?
My current favorite to practice is The Last Dance of the Romanovs; the music is very grandiose and it’s fun to hear the singers’ parts.
Have you played in a pit before?
This is my first time playing in a pit orchestra, I’ve only played in stand-alone ensembles before.
What/who are some of your inspirations when it comes to the piano?
I’m most inspired by my piano teacher, and also feel inspired by my pianist classmates who have since graduated. Also a big shoutout to the impressive Mrs. Judy Fesko who gifts our district with her talents.
