How many days/week does summer orchestra meet?
Beginning Summer Orchestra meets Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays for the duration of the summer orchestra program. We will have a final concert on the second to last day of our program.
When are orchestra classes?
There are options throughout the morning, and late afternoon/early evening. You get to choose the class/time that works best for you and your family. It is not required to sign up for classes in the school your child attends during the school year.
How much does it cost?
Summer Lessons cost $164. There is no fee for instruction during the school year.
Financial Assistance is available for students.
How do I know if my student is talented enough to play an instrument?
Talent in music is taught. Though some students come with varying degrees of natural talent, eventually all students end up at the same level with the right amount of effort. All humans have musical talent! Music making is one thing that is universal in all human cultures without exception.
How will instrumental music affect my students other academic courses?
Research indicates that students who are involved in instrumental music do better in school than students who do not take instrumental music. Though every student is different, research does indicate that music helps with other academic subjects. See the "Why Join Summer Orchestra" page for more information.
What instrument should my child play?
Many parents are concerned about choosing the correct instrument for their child. One thing to remember is that it is the child that is playing the instrument and this is an area where they should have the complete choice. Many students will choose an instrument because they enjoy the sound of that instrument or because it is the one that has always fascinated them. In the last few months of 3rd grade, students will have a chance to try all the instruments at school to help give them an idea of what instrument they want to play. Please do not discourage your child from playing a particular instrument because it is too big. If they enjoy playing, you will be much happier when it comes time for practice. Practice time will not become a battle.
How do I register my child for classes?
Register for summer lessons online via the Community Education website. Families should also attend one of our three display nights. This will be a time where the local music stores (All Strings Attached and House of Note) will all be available to help you rent an instrument. Please see the calendar for the locations of these nights. If you are unable to attend one of these nights, please contact the orchestra director at your school.
What does research say about music instruction?
There has been a great deal of research done about the affects of music instruction on children. Research indicates that music does help the brain to work faster and as a consequence students do better in school when they have music instruction.
My student is active in many other activities. How much time outside of school will this involve?
There are very few after school events that occur with involvement in elementary instrumental music. Students do have some after school rehearsals and concerts that are part of their grade in instrumental music (please see the calendar for a complete listing of these events for the school year). Students are also expected to practice at home. Generally students should practice anywhere from 15-20 minutes at a time about 5 days a week. Only consistent practice will help them to gain the full benefits of instrumental music instruction.