The award-winning Natchitoches Central High School Orchestra, a beloved symbol of excellence on the local musical and educational scene for over thirty years, held its Fall Orchestra Concert at NSU’s Magale Hall Wednesday, October 2.

The orchestra’s 53 young musicians delivered an eclectic blend of music, starting with an orchestral version of the NCHS Alma Mater followed by pieces from Haydn and Bach. They got closer to the modern era with selections from Rogers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!” and a mélange of Disney classics. The concert ended on a lighthearted note with Richard Meyer’s “Rosin Eating Zombies from Outer Space.”

The NCHS Orchestra is led by Mr. Lincoln Hall, himself a former orchestra member. Hall is a 2009 NCHS alumni and 2013 and 2014 alumni of Northwestern State University, earning both his undergraduate and master’s degrees from NSU. He is in his third year leading the NCHS orchestra. In addition to his musical and teaching duties, Hall coaches the NCHS cross country team.

The orchestra has a decades long tradition of excellence. They have toured Europe and made several appearances at New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Disney. The orchestra will be revisiting New York City in February 2025. In addition, orchestra members routinely earn All State Honors from the Louisiana Music Educators Association.

Given the proper leadership, our children will rise to any challenge put before them. The NCHS Orchestra is a joy to watch and listen to. Go Chiefs!