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About the Orchestras
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Beginner Orchestra
Beginner Orchestra is where it all starts! This group is made up primarily of 6th grade students who are brand new to playing a string instrument (or have very little prior experience) All are welcome, including 7th and 8th graders ready to begin their musical journey.
Students choose from one of four instruments: violin, viola, cello, or bass. We typically organize students into upper strings (violin and viola) and lower strings (cello and bass) to meet each instrument’s unique learning needs.
Throughout the year, students build a strong foundation in note reading, rhythm, posture, and playing technique. They’ll learn how to read music, interpret musical terms, perform a variety of songs, and even explore basic composition. It’s a year full of discovery, growth, and music-making!
Beginner Orchestra performs in concerts throughout the year to showcase their progress. There are minimal after-school rehearsals, and an orchestra fee is required to participate.
Families are often amazed by how much students accomplish in their first year, and how quickly they begin to feel part of something special. Orchestra becomes more than just a class; it becomes a place to belong, grow, and connect during some of the most formative years of a child’s life.
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Prelude Orchestra
Prelude Orchestra is our lower-intermediate ensemble, designed to strengthen essential skills and set students up for long-term success in orchestra. This group includes 6th–8th grade students who have completed at least one year of instruction and are ready to grow in confidence, technique, and musical understanding.
In Prelude, we focus on building a strong foundation, which includes mastering note reading, rhythm, and first-position playing across all four strings. Students work on finger pattern accuracy, intonation, and ensemble playing, all in a supportive, skill-building environment. This group is perfect for students who may need a little extra time or review before advancing to more competitive groups.
Prelude performs in quarterly concerts, celebrating student growth and achievement. While this group typically does not participate in UIL competition, it offers an excellent opportunity for students to develop at their own pace without the pressure of after-school rehearsals. An orchestra fee helps support materials and classroom resources.
Our goal in Prelude is to nurture musical growth, boost confidence, and ensure every student is equipped for success no matter where they started.
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Concert Orchestra
Concert Orchestra is our higher-intermediate ensemble, designed for students who have a solid foundation and are ready to take their playing to the next level. This group includes 6th–8th grade students who can confidently read all notes in first position and are working to master both finger pattern 1 and 2, with special focus on understanding the differences between them.
Students in Concert Orchestra continue refining their tone, technique, and intonation through a variety of musical styles. Emphasis is placed on ensemble skills, musical expression, and building the confidence needed for performance and competition.
Concert Orchestra performs in quarterly concerts and proudly represents our program in UIL Concert & Sightreading Evaluation.
There are minimal after-school rehearsals, and an orchestra fee is required to participate. Concert Orchestra is a key milestone for developing musicians to prepare them for advanced repertoire and leadership in future ensembles.
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Sinfonia Orchestra
Sinfonia Orchestra is our lower-advanced ensemble, designed for students who have mastered fundamental skills and are ready to expand their technical and musical range. This group includes 6th–8th grade students with at least one year of experience who demonstrate strong proficiency in first position and are now learning to shift and read in third position with confidence.
Students in Sinfonia continue to refine intonation, tone, and ensemble skills while exploring more challenging repertoire. The focus shifts toward expressive playing, advanced finger patterns, and developing independence as a musician.
Sinfonia performs in quarterly concerts and participates in UIL Concert & Sightreading, as well as district and region competitions.
There are occasional rehearsals and sectionals required outside of school hours, and an orchestra fee is required to participate. Sinfonia is an exciting next step for students eager to grow, compete, and deepen their artistry.
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Chamber Orchestra
Chamber Orchestra is our most advanced ensemble, made up of dedicated 6th–8th grade students who have typically completed at least two years of orchestra and demonstrate a high level of technical and musical skill. These students have mastered first and third positions and are now focused on advanced finger patterns, complex bowing techniques, and extended position work.
Chamber students engage with challenging repertoire and are expected to perform with precision, expression, and leadership. Emphasis is placed on musical interpretation, ensemble unity, and the pursuit of excellence.
The Chamber Orchestra performs in quarterly concerts and proudly represents our program at UIL Concert & Sightreading, as well as district and region competitions.
There are occasional rehearsals and sectionals required outside of school hours, and an orchestra fee is required to participate. Chamber Orchestra is the pinnacle of our middle school program, offering students the opportunity to reach their full potential as young musicians.