College chamber orchestra strings together smooth sounds

De Anza College has its own orchestra, and it has welcomed young musicians since 1973 when De Anza campus first opened its doors to students.

During one of their rehearsals on Thursday,Nov.19, the flowing sounds of the instruments perfectly in tune created the atmosphere of special private concert for the listener.

Music director Loren Tayerle has been teaching at De Anza college for the past 18 years and is in his 17th year as the music director of the orchestra.

“This group that we have here is extremely unique in it diversity,” Tayerle said about the combination of well-seasoned members and beginners. “It’s always a challenge to find and pick pieces that everyone can do, but at the same time keeping it interesting enough that the other more accomplished members feel challenged.”

Wan-Chi Chang, 21, music major, has played the violin in the orchestra for almost four years.

“I love playing with the orchestra, that’s why I come back every quarter,” Wan said. “It’s become my second home, my place of refuge.”

Wan plays the violin for 10 years.

“I think I’m really lucky. To find this community of like-minded individuals is a real blessing for me,” she said.

This quarter Tayerle has three beginner violinists. During his office hours, he works with them individually or in groups.

“It’s all about making everyone feel included,” he said.

Tayerle gave violinists a piece to work on that is looped into the performance.

“It might take a couple of years for them to reach the level where the others are,” Tayerle said. “But the trick is to not give up, to stay consistent and keep learning and practicing”

Tayerle said that it is fun for him to work with students and he feels an obligation to help those who wants to play better.

In preparation for it’s first concert of the quarter, the orchestra has been practicing on Thursday nights.

They performed several pieces on Saturday, opening with the overture to the Mozart’s opera “The Magic Flute” following by a composition by Herman Stein and a piece by a local composer Dave Brubeck.

“I really try to keep it interesting and diverse,” Tayerle said. “At times we even play some Nirvana.”

Joseph Villareal, 18, math major,has been playing with the orchestra for this quarter, and he said he plans to come back next quarter.

“I love playing the cello,” Villareal said. “When I knew that I was going to be attending De Anza college, I immediately found out if they had an orchestra. I love the sense of community we have here.”

Paul Egermeier, 18, accounting major, is the only bassoonist in the orchestra. He said he feels sad that not a lot of people know about the orchestra.

”We take almost anyone who has an instrument and wants to get better,” he said. “It is a camaraderie, and Tayerle is one of the best directors I have ever had.”

Orchestra practices are every Thursday night from 7:30 to 11 p.m.

Egermeier said he hopes that in the coming years more people will be exposed to the orchestra and join.

“I can assure you it’s a party every night,” he said, “filled with music.”