ORCHESTRA

informational meeting

Instructors

Mark Kinser; MSW, MSS

Kevin Dengel; MSE

AgendaDemonstrate the instrumentsExplain the programConsiderations before joiningMaterials for ClassAnswer QuestionsSize students for instruments

A quick note:Stringed instruments come in various sizes.

Any student can play any orchestra instrument

Instrument DemosViolinViolaVioloncelloDouble Bass

Violin

Demonstrated by: Chris Keener, Junior

Soprano voice of the orchestraG, D, A, E StringsReads treble clef

Viola

Demonstrated by: Courtney Katzmeyer, Senior

Alto voice of the orchestraC, G, D, A StringsReads alto clef

Violoncello

Demonstrated by: Maryanne Kirsh, Junior

Tenor voice of the orchestraC, G, D, A Strings (octave lower than viola)

Reads bass clef

Double Bass

Demonstrated by: Wayne Stegner, 8th grader

Bass voice of the orchestraE, A, D, G Reads bass clef

“Wounded Gazelles”Cellos and Double Bass instruments are provided at the Middle and High Schools to avoid personal instrument damage.

Music stands are provided at school.

IMPORTANT: Each musician must have these at home!

ExpectationsOrchestra is a graded academic course.

Make a year-long commitment. Students must be responsible: Remember all materialsPracticing and returning assignments.Making personal improvement

Student ExpectationsContinually improve and excited to learn!

Plan to practice 5 days per weekKnow that we are your advocates! Concerts and rehearsals are required

Parent ExpectationsBe interested, involved and encouragingDevelop a Weekly Practice ScheduleKeep instruments in working orderNever associate practice with negativesDO NOT ATTEMPT ANY REPAIRS!Contact us if there are problems!

ConsiderationsA student should think carefully about joining orchestra if they have too many other activities.

Over-programmed students are often a “Jack of all trades, master of none”.

6th Grade is the only opportunity to begin.

MaterialsInstrument

Method book

Music stand

SmartMusic subsciption

Good Idea vs. Bad Idea“I’m going to get my child’s instrument from a second hand store.” …usually not the best option.

“Look, the JCPenney catalogue has a violin – GREAT!”

“Hey Agnes, I was just at both Target and Sam’s Club looking for bunion cream and I saw stringed instruments in the toy section.”

InstrumentRent an instrument. DO NOT BUY!

Every orchestra instrument comes in a size that fits your sixth grader.

When your student grows, they can trade-in their instrument for the next larger size.

…..you can not do this when you purchase.

Method BookOrchestra Expressions

Book One

Music Stand Foldable Come in various colors New or Used

Acquiring an InstrumentThe Loft Violin ShopRettig Music

SmartMusic

Q & A

Be sure to sign in!We want to know who was here.Helps us to follow-up with you.

Size future musicians