BAND, CHORUS, & ORCHESTRA

The Longmeadow Public Schools are known far and wide for our outstanding music programs, and Center School is no exception. Our Beginner Orchestra is available to students as young as fourth grade. Fifth graders may choose from Advanced Orchestra, Band, or Chorus. Throughout the year, we will have two or three formal concerts to show off what we've learned! 

• FOURTH GRADE ORCHESTRA: Fourth grade students may choose from violin, viola, or cello. Geared towards first-time musicians, this class teaches the basics of learning to play the instruments, as well as the fundamentals of note-reading. A fun and rewarding adventure into the world of orchestra performance! This class is taught by Ms. Lauser.

• FIFTH GRADE ORCHESTRA: In this class we will explore more advanced techniques and begin to perform more complex and challenging repertoire. This class is taught by Ms. Lauser.

• BAND: Fifth graders may choose from flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or percussion (drums and bell set). This class is for students entering their first year of study on a band instrument. We'll cover the basics of playing the instrument, as well as review fundamental note-reading skills. This class is taught by Ms. Morrisey Morrisey.

• CHORUS: This class is open to all fourth and fifth graders who love to sing! We'll meet Fridays after school, and sing a variety of music, from traditional folk songs and multicultural music to current pop tunes. This class is taught by Ms. Morrisey.

LESSONS: Students in band and orchestra receive one thirty-minute small group lesson a week. These small group lessons are part of a “pull-out” program that takes place during the school day. Students are responsible for making up all of the work they miss while outside the regular classroom. Lessons may be scheduled once a week during your child’s work in either science, social studies, reading, writing, morning meeting, PE, or morning recess. No lessons will be scheduled during math instruction. In order to keep class sizes small, students who already receive lessons on their instrument outside of school are not eligible for the school’s pull-out lesson program, but are encouraged to join our weekly orchestra and band rehearsals. Students in chorus do not participate in lessons. 

REHEARSALS: In addition to lessons, the band, chorus, and orchestras each rehearse once a week as a large group. Please contact the ensemble's teacher for their rehearsal schedule. 

INSTRUMENT RENTAL: Students enrolled in band or orchestra are required to provide their own instrument for the class. Band and Orchestra students will also need Book One of "Essential Elements 2000" for their instrument.   You can find information on renting an instrument or purchasing the book at any of these local music shops: 

• Gerry's Music, (413)534-7402

• Performance Music, (413)568-5383

• Stamell Stringed Instruments, (413)256-0936