To add to the collection of fine arts organizations Niles North is known for, a new musical group called Viking Strings is making its debut this year.

Viking Strings, which aims to be a combination of band, orchestra and choir with an added twist, is a new club which can’t wait to take our stages. Jennifer Page, who’s in her second year of teaching orchestra, guitar and music appreciation here at North, came up with the idea for the club after starting a similar one at Metea Valley High School, the school she taught at before.

The new ensemble is going to be geared towards playing a more alternative style of music. “I feel that there is a real need for this type of ensemble here at Niles North,” Page said. “In orchestra, during the day we play a lot of classical and traditional music because that’s what the curriculum calls for; but there’s a whole other world of music out there, which is often times what the students are more interested in.”

Already being a part of the music scene here is not a requirement at all. In fact, Viking Strings is reaching out to students who enjoy making music outside of school and in the comfort of their own homes. Besides instruments that are already a part of the band and orchestra, the club is looking for people who play less traditional instruments, like the guitar or ukulele. Singers are also wanted and if there are any songwriters out there who want to see their music come to life, Viking Strings would love to perform it.

“My hope is that students who play the guitar or sing will come and check this group out and have music be a part of what they do here through school,” Page said.

Viking Strings will be playing cover songs as well as making their own, and no type of music is off limits. From a hip-hop element, to freestyling, to folk songs and fiddle tunes, Coldplay, and adding a rock beat to spice up well-known classics, the group will be exploring the entire spectrum.

Right now, Page is working on being able to perform the Cup Song from Pitch Perfect and a version of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia”. For a taste of the possibilities, here is a video of a performance of “Underneath the Willow Tree” that she put together with the club at her previous school:

Viking Strings is open to all students who are interested. There will be an informational meeting on August 29 at 3:30 p.m. in the orchestra room (1635). Rehearsals will generally be Wednesdays before school at 7:15 a.m. and Fridays after school at 3:30 p.m starting with the first one on Friday, September 5. Being able to make both weekly rehearsals would be great, but if you can only get to one of them, you’re still able to be a part of the group.

If you have any questions about Viking Strings, contact Mrs. Page at [email protected]. “I’m really looking forward to taking this from its starting point and seeing where it goes over the next couple years,” she said.