Guitar Ensemble is an after-school program that takes place on Wednesdays from 2:30-3:30. The Leaf staff had the chance to shadow this club and attend one session after school.

In Guitar Ensemble, each person is put into one of four groups based on their skill set. However, all groups collaborate to put together a song at the end.

SHS guitar teacher and club sponsor, Mr. Zachary Starkie, helps break the song down into the four parts each group will play. Students are allowed to use a pick or their fingers to play without any problem, depending on what fits their playing style. He also sprinkles jokes throughout.

On the day the Leaf staff was there, Guitar Ensemble played the song “Lonely Rolling Star.” The song had a very steady pace and good timing, even for a warm-up. Very little is done when it comes to the strumming of chords; mostly notes are played in a classic style for guitar [plucking] over a standard style with strums and have rhythm, mostly working on the beat of one another. They played it a couple of times and took notes when they needed/ felt like they should.

Members reflect:

Zach Rentschler [he/him] “It is not a style I play a lot, but it does fit me … It’s not too flashy and it’s nice to work with others.”

Jaana Christian [she/her]  “It’s a very open and funny place to be … Don’t be scared to join; they will catch you up quickly”

August Schneider [they/them] “Going to [the] green school was fun as it showed our music to a group of younger kids … I say I like it a lot!”

Zachary Starkie [he/him]  “I love the synergy in the group practices and [watching members] play their pieces and grow and learn.”

Closing Thoughts:

Guitar Ensemble was a very fun place to be. The members’ enthusiasm was only outdone by the teacher. I would highly recommend this for anyone wanting to learn more about playing the guitar or wanting to grow with the guitar in different ways. This club can provide a fun learning experience to those willing to try!