When students, parents and community members attend an orchestra concert this year, they will see a new level of student leadership.

The orchestra has chosen eight high school students to represent and strengthen the program. These students are juniors Arden Chrisciel, Johnny Somaiah and Ryan McCanna, and sophomores Zoe Kedrowski, Vivi Hustad, Rachel Vorthner, Mikka Schacherer and Emily Melbye.

According to Co-President Johnny Somaiah, some of the council’s duties are to come up with ideas for fundraisers, help select music to play and attend junior high orchestra concerts.

“We are trying to improve the orchestra and get ready for our trip to Paris and London next year,” he said.

In order to financially prepare for the trip, Somaiah said the orchestra will be playing a Halloween concert Oct. 25 with activities such as a raffle to help raise money. In addition, orchestra members will sell coupon cards and chocolates.

Junior orchestra member Matt Cole said he thinks the council is beneficial for the program.

“It’s a good system to have them handle a lot of backstage business and handle trips,” he said. “This makes the orchestra move along faster and progress.”