Here's something written by our very own SFS International Unity member, Sean Franiak. After we play with the Blogger settings a bit, we'll make sure its the members themselves who are posting from now one!
Many people think that APAC orchestra is close to nothing when it comes to stress and drama (unlike many APAC sports). The truth is quite the opposite. The routine, the intensive practice, and the constant encountering of people from foreign schools makes orchestra just as entertaining and special as any other APAC activity out there.
Each day we begin practice at 8 in the morning. We then practice for about four hours until lunch break – and then another four hours until six at night. As many people would expect, this long practice schedule takes its toll on our body, making our backs raw with discomfort while depleting our arms of strength. At the end of each practice, nearly everyone, besides the persevering HKIS and WAB students, can keep themselves from losing consciousness, much less hold their instrument (If you look closely on Facebook, you can see pictures of various SFS students sleeping during practices). After practice is free time. All the students can hang and have fun in various places in the city (as long as they’re back by ten). Many of us took this as an opportunity to get to know people from other schools.
In conclusion, APAC orchestra is as unique as other activities. It is a truly fun and unforgettable event.
