Strings of Color Orchestra

SOC Founders

SOC Members

The Strings of Color Orchestra is about many things, but the most vital parts of our organization are the kids and the music. It is important that we help our youth grow and experience music of various genres.

The Strings of Color Orchestra was founded in 2007 to provide an orchestral experience for all young musicians. This unique orchestra is designed for people of color, ranging from middle school to college level experience. It is our desire to feature a variety of works including classical, popular, R&B, Hip-Hop, and Gospel while performing at various venues to all types of music fans.

The goals of the Strings of Color orchestra are:

To provide all young musicians, ranging from middle school to college level experience in the DFW metroplex, an opportunity to perform in a traditional orchestral setting.

To perform literature from the traditional repertoire as well as the best of new music.

To provide the metroplex with outstanding musical performances that showcases the talent of our members.

Okechi Akagha
Associate Conductor

Okechi Akagha joined Strings of Color for the 2008-2009 concert season as a intern conductor and viola player. Since then, Okechi has become a vital part of the organization and earned his spot as Associate Conductor. Okechi was a member of the Sherman Symphony Orchestra and has been playing viola since 1997. He was awarded a music scholarship from Austin College, where he was a conductor trainee and graduated in 2008 with a major in chemistry and a minor in music. Taking his viola along for life’s ride was something Okechi had always known. He really enjoys his instrument and playing music with others. Aside from conducting, Okechi takes pleasure in mentoring the younger SOC orchestra members.

STRINGS of COLOR Member List 2009 - 2010 Season

Violin
Xavier Hubbard - Concert Master -	Marques Swoopes - Principal -
Ariel Bowman	Maia Wilson
Jordan Johnson	Richie Smith
Alexis Smith	Maya Kirkland
Victoria Dillard	Jasmine Scott
Imani Handy	Ari Mixon
	Mari Fleming
	Michael Hendrix

Viola
Kellie Brooks	Dominick Reed
Alex Robinson

Cello
Gabriela Grange	Savannah Thigpen
Joshua Perkins	Brinyae Thompson
Alexandria Dillard	Mickala Johnson
Andrew Hodge	Kalif Perkins

Bass
Alicia Best	Brandon White