University High's symphony orchestra takes second at national festival in Rhode Island

University High School’s symphony orchestra recently placed second nationally at a competition held in Providence, R.I. And the group was already in some pretty elite company. Grace Lee, Uni's orchestra director, said just seven of the top programs from around the country were invited to the National Orchestra Festival, which was organized by the American Strings Teachers Association and held Feb. 28 through March 2. “It was a wonderful experience, and the kids really enjoyed every minute of it,” Lee said. “From performing in a gorgeous concert hall, to receiving valuable feedback from the country’s top clinicians, to jamming out on new instruments in the largest string exhibit in the county, it was all an unforgettable experience the kids will remember for a lifetime.” According to its website, the National Orchestra Festival invites youth, middle school and high school orchestras, which are selected to participate based on their applications and supporting materials. Groups can compete or receive evaluations for their performances, which are followed by educational clinics.