Varsity Orchestra

Grade: 9

Prerequisite: Previous string experience.  Students with no string experience must have instructor approval.

Varsity Orchestra is the study of intermediate string techniques and musicianship skills in preparation for upper level orchestra ensembles.  Students study advanced string skills including shifting, fingerboard positions, vibrato and bow technique in addition to building orchestral ensemble techniques.  Through daily exercises and repertoire, students learn music history and music theory which they can apply to all aspects of music making.  Performs music exclusively from the string orchestra repertoire. Varsity Orchestra students perform four concerts during the year and participate in the MNSOTA Honors Orchestra Festival.

Concert Orchestra

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: Previous string experience.  Students with no string experience must have instructor approval.

 Concert Orchestra is the continuation of intermediate string technique and musicianship skills study at a higher level in preparation for advanced playing.  Students deepen their knowledge of music theory, music history and gain the ability to play advanced string technique with confidence and proficiency.  Concert Orchestra students perform five concerts a year including the annual Disney Pajama performance in addition to participating in the Region Large Group and Solo/Ensemble contest.

Symphony Orchestra

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Previous string experience and instructor approval.

 Symphony Orchestra is an advanced orchestra ensemble that performs music from both the string and full orchestra repertoire.  Students refine advanced right and left hand technique, ear training, music theory, music history and musicianship.  Emphasis is placed on individual musical growth and how it connects to the larger ensemble.  Symphony Orchestra students perform six concerts each year in addition to participating in the Region Large Group and Solo/Ensemble contest.  Symphony Orchestra tours in the spring.

Chamber Orchestra- Grades 9-12 (auditioned)

Chamber Orchestra is an auditioned ensemble. The ensemble meets once a week before school. Members are required to attend before school rehearsals as scheduled. Playing in this small ensemble is an intimate and challenging experience. The main goal for the Chamber Orchestra is to listen for timbre and works towards creating the ensemble’s total tonal quality. Throughout the year members learn to listen to each other, agree on bow strokes and bow placement, use eye contact and body movement to communicate with members, trust one another and make musical decisions together.

All students who sign up for any orchestra are expected to commit to the entire academic year.