International recording artist Mark Wood, an original member of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and creator of the Viper electric violin and Cobra cello, is bringing his music education program, “Electrify Your Strings!,” to Hillsborough High School.
The program includes a two-day workshop that culminates in a concert in which Mr. Wood will perform with the Hillsborough High School orchestra and some members of the Hillsborough Middle School orchestra on Saturday, April 6, at 7 p.m. at Hillsborough High School.
Profits will go to the school music programs. Tickets can be purchased at for $8 at www.hhstheatre.org or $10 at the door.
Mr. Wood’s program works to transform the school orchestra into a rock orchestra that concludes with a public performance.
The two-day student workshop will cover improvisation, performance technique and stage presence.
The EYS program aims to builds on the foundation of classical music provided by district music teachers.
“We are excited to host our first Mark Wood workshop,” said high school orchestra director Sarah Munch. “Our students and staff are looking forward to an awesome educational and fun experience.”
The April 6 concert will feature Mr. Wood performing on his handcrafted 7-string fretted electric Viper violin.
The audience will be entertained by Wood’s original material, as well as arrangements of music by Led Zeppelin, The Police and The Beatles.
In addition to Wood’s solo and Trans-Siberian work, he has also performed with Celine Dion, Lenny Kravitz and Billy Joel. He is also the owner and operator of Wood Violins, the manufacturer of electric orchestra string instruments.
The high school orchestra is a growing program. Members have participated in the High Note Festivals the past two years earning a “superior” rating in 2011 and an “excellent” rating in 2012. The orchestra earned an “excellent” rating at the J.P. Stevens Orchestra Festival in 2009, 2010 and 2012.
