FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions)
Scroll down for answers to the following questions:
How do I sign-up for Remind texts? (Families must re-enroll each year)
Do I need any supplies other than my instrument?
How is this class graded?
What is Strings+?
Where is there a music store to get what I need for orchestra?
Why don't you want me to buy a violin (or viola, cello, or bass) over the internet.
How can I join orchestra?
When Should I Get My Bow Rehaired?
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How do I sign-up for Remind texts?
Garfield 6th Grade Orchestra students and parents text @gmsorch62 to the number 81010.
Garfield 7th Grade Orchestra students and parents text @gmsorch72 to the number 81010.
Garfield 8th Grade Orchestra students and parents text @gmsorch8 to the number 81010.
Harding 6th Grade Orchestra students and parents text @hmsorch6 to the number 81010.
Harding 7th Grade Orchestra students and parents text @hmsorch7 to the number 81010.
Harding 8th Grade Orchestra students and parents text @hmsorch8 to the number 81010.
For Strolling Strings messages: @mstroll to the number 81010
Families must re-enroll in Remind each school year. For example, at the end of your child's year in 6th grade orchestra, all class lists will be archived and you will no longer receive messages until you enroll in 7th grade orchestra Remind messages the following year. You will need to re-enroll in Strolling Strings messages as well.
Do I need any supplies other than my instrument?
Yes. Students are expected to bring the following to orchestra:
* a 3 ring binder (with a firm cover that will stay open on your music stand and preferably with pockets)
This binder is for orchestra only. Why? 3 ring binders with multiple subjects are usually quite heavy. The average music stand will not support a heavy binder; the stand will not stay at the desired height, or (even worse) it may topple over.
* rosin, cleaning rag, pencil, and planner
* Violin & Viola players must have a shoulder rest. The “purple sponge” is acceptable for 5th grade only.
* Cello & Bass players must have a rock-stop for performances.
* All Students should have a music stand at home for personal practice.
How is this class graded?
Grading: Middle School Orchestra is an effort-based class. The majority of your grade in orchestra will be based on the effort put into achieving goals and meeting curriculum-based playing standards when participating in class and completing assignments. Students are encouraged to track their grade on Progressbook. If you do not have your Progressbook login, please check with the main office.
Preparedness (coming to class prepared to learn): We will periodically check if students have their materials in class. Points will be deducted if a student comes to class unprepared.
Practice / Homework: Students will be given 1-2 assignments to practice and turn in each week. These assignments will typically be completed in FlipGrid. These assignments are meant to check progress on a given skill. We grade for learning, not perfection. Full completion of the assignment will earn full credit. (You are not expected to perform like Hilary Hahn or Yo-Yo Ma to earn 100%.)
If you are having trouble getting homework completed for any reason (poor wifi at home, babysitting infant siblings, etc), please inform your teacher so you can make arrangements to do your homework. Possible solutions are: asking to complete an assignment during recess, staying for 5-10 minutes after school, etc.
Quizzes/tests/worksheets/etc.: This includes both playing and written assessments. Students should not hesitate to ask for extra help or consult their private teacher for assistance.
Concert Attendance: The orchestra is a performing group and a student's grade will be affected by any concert absences. Please read Our Concerts for concert dates and Concert Attire.
What is Strings PLus?
Strings＋ is an extra-curricular group open to all 7th and 8th grade orchestra students. This group will give students the chance to learn additional music in a variety of styles and increase performance opportunities. Rehearsals are once a week from 7:10–8:05 a.m. beginning in mid-October. Harding Strolling Strings meets on Tuesday mornings and Garfield Strolling Strings meets on Wednesday mornings. Students with no more than 3 absences from Strolling Strings rehearsals and performances will be allowed to participate in the trip to Cedar Point in the spring.
When will Strolling Strings begin? Strolling Strings will begin in Mid-October. More information will be given closer to that time.
I wasn't in Strolling Strings as a 7th grader. Can I join in 8th grade? Yes.
Where is there a music store to get what I need for orchestra?
Click here for a brief list of area music retailers. The list includes Southwest Strings and Shar Music - 2 very reputable companies that cater to string players. If you are buying new strings, these companies will give you the best price.
I cannot recommend one rental agency over another. The teachers' job is instruction. At the same time, a quality, well-adjusted instrument will provide a greater chance for success than an ill-equipped instrument. You can always consult friends and neighbors about their experiences with rental companies. DO NOT buy from eBay or online vendors!
Why don't you want me to buy a violin (or viola, cello, or bass) over the internet?
"If you are new to the violin, you might be tempted to buy one of the low-priced violins advertised all over the Internet." Read this fabulous article that illustrates a number of the shortcuts taken to manufature these cheap, violin-shaped objects. Please rent or purchase your instrument from a dealer we can count on to stand behind their instruments.
How Can I Join Orchestra?
Lakewood Orchestra members are a fabulous group of people, and we'd love to have you join us. Beginning instruction is only offered in 5th grade. If you do not already play the violin, viola, cello, or bass, you will need to take private lessons prior to joining orchestra class. I can direct you to private instructors in the area. Please contact me so we can devise a plan of action to get you ready to join orchestra!
When Should I Get My Bow Rehaired?
There are many signs which indicate it is time to have your bow rehaired. The most obvious one is when it is missing many hairs. ... Another obvious sign is if the hair turns very dark or if it doesn't bite or cling to the string when playing with a moderate amount of rosin. ... Over time, when stretched and played a lot, the hairs (on the bow) become smoother and smoother. This causes it to slip and the player will tend to rosin the bow so much it becomes scratchy and rough without producing good quality of tone. If you find yourself using more and more rosin than usual and not getting enough grip on the strings it is time to get a rehair. ... Another reason to have the bow rehaired is if the hair becomes too long or too short. In general the hair becomes too long when it is used for a while and becomes stretched. The hair will not grip the string as well when it is too stretched. ...If the hair becomes too long relatively soon after it has been rehaired it can be shortened by the person who rehaired it or someone who is experienced in bow rehairing.
If you are having trouble tightening or loosening the hair don't force things. The screw or eyelit may be worn. Bring the bow in to a repairman.
excerpts from "Answers to Some Frequently Asked Questions" by Peter Zaret