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The string orchestra program at West Hills High School is a growing and accomplished program in the GUHSD district and is proud to showcase the variety and skill of its performers. This class meets the college f requirement and provides quality instruments.
The student based WHHS Orchestra Club hosts two concerts a year (winter and spring) at the school for students, family, and the surrounding community. Students perform beginning to advanced level literature from various genres of music including Renaissance, Baroque, and classical to commercial and contemporary.
The String Orchestra Program at West Hills has performed many places outside of the school and has earned an honorable reputation. The students compete and are judged as an orchestra at music festivals throughout San Diego County and usually take a trip to a judged festival. They have received the award of superior and excellent over the years.
Beginning String Orchestra/Advanced String Orchestra
(Grades 9-12)
This course meets the University of California’s ‘f’ and ‘g’ requirement. Quality Instruments are provided. Emphasis is placed on the development of playing techniques and performing classical and popular based literature. School and public performances are given during the year. Students are encouraged to take all 4 years and develop into professional musicians. Students awarded recognition at graduation for 3-4 years with their last year as a senior.
Music is More Than Just the Notes. A Students Perspective
By Kylie Brader
It is scientifically proven that people who play instruments get higher scores in school. Albert Einstein once said "A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit, and a violin; what else does a man need to be happy?". What better place to find happiness and sharpen your I.Q. than our very own West Hills orchestra?
What is an orchestra?
An orchestra is a group of musicians who sit in a half circle and play stringed instruments. The five sections (violin 1, violin 2, viola, cello, and bass) work together and join their five separate parts to create a piece of music.
Who is in the orchestra?
Students that you see everyday walking from class to class. The class is taught by Steve Lorentz and assisted by Sicily Famolaro. The class has kids from ages 14-18 who all have the same passion- to play a stringed instrument.
Where is the orchestra?
The orchestra is located in PA1, which is on the side of the performing arts building closest to the back senior parking lot, right next to the choir room.
When is it?
The class is during sixth period everyday and rehearses Monday night from 6:00-8:00 PM.
Why join it?
It helps you expand your musical horizons. Even if you have never played an instrument or have been playing for ten years, our orchestra has a place for you.We have tons of fun with songs throughout the year and you'll always find yourself smiling and having fun.
How will you learn?
Our instructor, Steve Lorentz, and our assistant instructor, Sicily Famolaro, work together to teach you how to hold the instrument and how to get the best sound out of it.You'll learn how to read music, play music (eat, live, breath, etc.), and even to write music.There are some little tests to see how you're doing, but don't fret- everyone starts somewhere.
Is it easy?
Playing a stringed instrument, or ay instrument, takes a lot of practice and time. You need to be devoted and if you're having trouble with a certain part, practice slow, then build up speed to the proper tempo. There are phone apps for metronomes, which keep a beat, and tuners, which keep you in the proper pitches.
Is it fun?
Orchestra is as much fun as you make it. First semester is spent teaching you the fundamentals and second semester is a little more fun, with projects and field trips.
Being part of an orchestra takes devotion and time, and if you aren't devoted, then this isn't for you. But if you are interested and devoted, come on down to PA1 and we'll grab you an instrument and teach you to play!
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