Audrey McKenzie
Staff Writer
This school year, Mira Costa has received an addition to the orchestra program. Costa has a new orchestra director, Peter Park, who replaced Chris Schwabe, Costa’s orchestra director for 12 years.
Park decided to come to Costa because of the impressive achievements of Costa’s orchestra program (such as winning the ranking of Superior at their last competion) and the philosophy of the previous director, Chris Schwabe.
He said he believes that there is a high level of parent support at Costa, which is helpful for the success of the program. Park said that Mira Costa’s strong academic reputation also contributed to his decision.
“I get the distinct feeling that the parents in this district really understand the importance of an arts curriculum,” Park said.
Park said he noticed that the students on this campus are motivated, dedicated and hardworking. He said this has made the transition easy and pleasant for him.
“I really enjoy working with young adults, and I look forward to the moment where I can say I really know my students,” Park said.
Park said he is adjusting well to the new environment and that he hopes to provide a productive and fulfilling year for his students.
“It’s always hard to get used to a new director, but I feel like Mr. Park will really help the orchestras to grow with his teaching skills and his knowledge of music,” junior first violin Maura Chen said.
Park has taught orchestra for 14 years. He is a graduate of UCLA, where he received his bachelor’s in music performance and education and his Master’s in education. Before Park came to Costa, he worked at Lincoln Middle School in Santa Monica for 12 years, teaching orchestra to grades six through eight.
The students said they are getting used to the changes that come with introducing a new director and have adapted well to his new style of teaching.
“He creates a more professional environment, but it’s a new environment so I think it will take a while for the orchestra to get settled in,” junior cellist Tristan Koester said.
In addition to the time orchestra practices at school, the orchestra also has two-hour long evening rehearsals during the week. Orchestra had its first evening practice Oct. 5.
“Our first Monday night rehearsal was very successful and I see nothing but clear skies ahead,” junior violist Joey Nichols said.
Both the students and Park said they have high hopes for this year. Their first performance will take place Oct. 22 at the Prism Concert, which will feature Costa’s three advanced music ensembles: wind ensemble, vocal ensemble and symphony orchestra. The Prism Concert will begin at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.
“I see every performance as an opportunity to showcase the hard work we put in, and I am looking forward to this year,” Park said.
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