This winter, Oyster River High School (ORHS) students in Andrea von Oeyen’s string orchestra program embarked on a powerful creative journey through a multidisciplinary “Gratitude Project” that blended music, storytelling, and community connection. What began as a classroom discussion about gratitude quickly grew into a deeply meaningful experience culminating in a moving performance during the December 9 orchestra concert.

The project was centered around the concert’s featured work, “With Gratitude”, composed by award-winning educator, cellist, conductor, and composer Katie O’Hara LaBrie. LaBrie is known for writing music inspired by personal storytelling and emotional connection. During a video conference with students, she shared the inspiration for the piece, explaining that she composed it in memory of a former student who passed away from cancer at a young age. Despite suffering from a terminal illness, her student approached life with optimism and purpose, a reminder, LaBrie told students, of the importance of being grateful.

In class, Ms. von Oeyen guided students in exploring what gratitude looks like in their own lives. They interviewed family, friends, teachers, and community members, gathering stories emphasizing gratitude. A common theme emerged from these interviews: that you can choose your mindset by choosing what you focus on. Many interviewees pointed out that negativity can shape how we treat others while noticing the small things that can transform even ordinary moments.

With Ms. von Oeyen’s trust and encouragement, students took on the ambitious task of producing a video to accompany the concert performance of LaBrie’s piece. They worked collaboratively on every step, from concept to filming to organization of the final product.

The students’ video, filmed using the fall play Noises Off as the perfect backdrop, was projected as a slideshow during the concert and featured original artistic contributions, including poems, personal reflections, and handwritten definitions of gratitude.

ORHS students Rayan Barakat, Ada Gerard, Georgia Leone, Carter Michaud, and Vivien Stuart shared that the most meaningful part of the project was the independence and encouragement Ms. von Oeyen gave them. They described feeling “a lot of trust and freedom” as they made creative decisions and shaped the project’s direction. While Ms. von Oeyen checked in and guided them, she empowered them to explore, experiment, and lead.

Of the experience, Georgia said: “Our gratitude project caused me to think deeply about the true meanings of gratitude, not just the broad generalized statements of gratitude we make daily. Gratitude is a culmination of all the little things, and appreciating all the gifts we are given in life is important when reflecting on how lucky we are. I am so grateful to Ms. von Oeyen and the orchestra community at ORHS for making this experience so meaningful and enriching. Music is a large part of my life, and I reflect on the many joys and opportunities the music program provides me daily. I look forward to all of the experiences and memories we will continue to make as a music program!”

The result was a heartfelt tribute to gratitude, community, and the bonds that develop through shared creative work. This year’s orchestra winter concert performance was a touching reminder to appreciate the small things, cherish our connections, and make the most of the time we’re given.

String Orchestra students delighted the crowd with a masterful rendition of "With Gratitude". Photo courtesy of Chase Prompradit, Class of 2027.

Students playing during the December 9 concert. Photo courtesy of Chase Prompradit, Class of 2027.