Strings

I am happy to announce a great educational opportunity and musical experience!   At the beginning of the school year we will be offering elementary orchestra for our fifth grade students.  I recommend you now discuss the possibility of orchestra with your child.  

I will briefly attempt to answer as many questions as possible.  However, please feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions.

 Who is eligible? The elementary orchestra is available to any fourth and fifth grade student who wants to learn how to play an orchestral instrument.  No experience is required!  In our class times we will learn how to properly play the instrument, how to read music, and how to care for the instrument.

 Is music hard? Yes and no.  Reading music and playing an instrument is comparable to speaking a second language.  Most people have the necessary skills to succeed in music.  The defining moment is a student’s dedication.  It is vitally important for your child to practice at home outside of class time.  The most challenging part of music comes when a child’s natural ability and talent ends and hard work and dedication begins!  Practice is by far the single most important element to learning to play an instrument.

When is orchestra? Orchestra will be offered on Mondays and Fridays before school (7:30-8AM).  A form will be sent home for ones interested in the string program to determine which mornings are best for the majority.

Is music fun?  Absolutely!  Orchestra is truly a hands-on learning approach.  Instead of reading about music or composers, the students will be able to experience the music.  The students will also use the majority of their senses (sight, hearing, and touch).

What about concerts? We will have at least two concerts - one in December and one in April. These concerts are required and will be scheduled and communicated well in advance of the concert date.  As parents you will not believe how quickly your child’s skill level will develop.  

What instruments can my child choose? The orchestra instrument available will be the violin.  If your child decides to continue playing in the orchestra during middle school, all concepts and techniques will transfer over to the other string instruments (viola, cello, double bass).  

What is my financial obligation? To aid you, below is an outline of equipment needed for orchestra and the usual options for purchasing it.  There are typically four standard methods of obtaining an instrument.

Rental from music store—the most flexible method of purchasing an instrument is renting one from a music store.  The positives of renting include (1) all money paid goes towards the purchasing price of the instrument, (2) the instrument as insurance if any damage should occur, (3) if your child decides they no longer want to participate, you may return the instrument to the music store, thus cancelling any further financial obligation, and (4) the rental includes the instrument, instrument accessories, a method book for class, and a music stand.

Purchase from rental store—this is recommended for and the most economical step for those students who have a strong interest in playing an orchestra instrument and continuing to play throughout middle school and high school. 

Purchase from online or pawn shop—often you may find a great “deal” online, a pawn shop, or garage sale.  However, it is highly recommended to have these instruments inspected by a qualified instrument repairman, as most used instruments need adjustments for proper playing condition.

 As a word of caution, while some good “deals” may be available, through many years experience, most used instruments have been abused throughout the years.  I also encourage you to purchase the correct sized instrument for your child.  Many full size stringed instruments are too large for elementary students.  Instrument companies offer both ½ and ¾ sized instruments.  Please do not hinder your child’s success by purchasing an instrument that is too large or does not play properly.

Instrument from family/friends—sometimes a sibling, family member, or friend has an unused instrument around the house.  If you have access to such an instrument, this is a great way to see if your child is dedicated to learning an instrument with very little financial obligation.  However, as with other used instruments, I encourage you to have these instruments inspected.

 

As an additional help to parents, we will provide an instrument rental night to be determined for a date in January.  Reece King, an instrument representative with Amro Music, will come assist in selecting the correct sized instrument, explain the rental agreement, and answer any additional questions.

 

Again, I am excited that Heath Elementary has the opportunity to provide this great opportunity to your child.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.