Orchestra

6th Grade Preparatory Orchestra
Length/Credit 4 quarters
Prerequisite: See Description Below
Grade Level: 6th
Generally students have 1-2 years of experience playing a string instrument with some understanding of reading music. In this course students will extend their reading ability and musical vocabulary. They will gain the mechanics and basic understanding of tuning their own instrument. They will learn when and how to shift out of first position.

*Beginning students are welcome but highly encouraged to take private lessons and seek as much support from the teacher as possible.

7th Grade Symphonic Orchestra
Length/Credit 4 quarters
Prerequisite: See Description Below
Grade Level: 7th
Student should have 2-4 years of experience playing a string instrument. Should be able to read music confidently and understand the mechanics of tuning their own instrument. In this course students will extend their reading ability and musical vocabulary. They will play musical selections which will require them to shift and play in multiple keys while performing more challenging rhythmic patterns.

*Highly self motivated beginning students are welcome but highly encouraged to take private lessons and seek as much support from the teacher as possible as they will need to spend a great deal of time with the instrument to catch up.

8th Grade Chamber Orchestra
Length/Credit 4 quarters
Prerequisite: See Description Below
Grade Level: 8th
This is an advanced orchestra for student with 3-5 years of experience playing a string instrument. Students should be able to confidently read music and tune their own instrument with minimal assistance. They should be able to confidently shift to one other position and play in many different keys. In this course they will learn advanced techniques such as vibrato, and shifting to higher positions. They will extend their reading ability and musical vocabulary and demonstrate this through sight reading.

*Students with less experience are welcome but must be highly motivated to learn as a fast pace on their own and are highly encouraged to take private lessons and seek as much support from the teacher as possible.