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Ames Elementary Orchestra 2021-2022
Ames Elementary Orchestra 2021-2022
Elementary Orchestra Teachers
Mrs. Helen Park - (Full time Elementary - Fellows, Meeker, and Sawyer Elementary Schools)
Mrs. Jennifer Dishman - (Part time - Edwards, and Mitchell Elementary Schools)
Invitation letter, 8/30/2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
The Ames Community School District has an active orchestra program from 4th through 12th grade. Instruction is offered for the first time in 4th grade. Students who participate in this program work on large and fine motor skills, reading skills, leadership, coordination, cooperation, and group participation. They also develop friendships, perform, and have a lot of fun along the way!
Orchestra students have 30 minute small group lessons during the school day once a week. Large group before or after school rehearsals will start in October for 5th grade and January for 4th and beginning 5th graders. We are looking forward to having a LIVE concert this spring! You can click on the link below to view our virtual concert from last spring.
Ames Elementary Orchestra Virtual Concert Spring 2021
Your child can choose to play the Violin, Viola, Cello, or Bass. We have extra requirements for bass. Please email the orchestra teacher for your school if you are interested in the bass.
AMES ELEMENTARY ORCHESTRA ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM
**Click on the link below to register for Orchestra**Registration deadline September 7.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1wqHzrXQbPgF3kiHZuNhlvfh89M43wuLmnNWUAqSFxMQ/edit
LESSONS START THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 27
You will receive more information after you register.
LARGE GROUP BEFORE OR AFTER SCHOOL REHEARSALS
5th Grade will start the week of October 18.
4th & beginning 5th will start in January.
More information will be sent closer to the start of large group rehearsals.
INSTRUMENT INFORMATION
Buying an instrument is not recommended. Cheap options may seem ideal and cost effective, but many of them end up unplayable and cause frustration for students and teachers, and prevent the student’s overall success in the program. If planning on purchasing an instrument, please go through a local music store listed below or contact your child’s orchestra teacher.
INSTRUMENT RENTALS
Click on the websites below to learn more about music store rentals.
Becker Fine Stringed Instruments Website
https://beckerfineinstruments.com/
Rieman Music Website
https://www.riemanmusic.com/
Schultz Strings Website
https://www.schultzstrings.com/
SCHOOL INSTRUMENTS
The district has a limited number of school instruments for rent. If it will not work for your family to rent an instrument from a music store, please email the orchestra teacher for your school.
Necessary Class Materials:
Necessary Class Materials:
An Instrument : Violin, Viola, Cello or Bass
Essential Elements for Strings : Book 1 (5th grade will continue to finish Book 1)
Students will begin the book in 4th grade and finish the book in 5th grade.
*There is a 2014 edition out with just Essential Elements as the title.
Rosin
This will be used when we begin using the bow, please leave the bow in case until we begin using the bow in class. We ask students to not touch the bow hair, which is sensitive to oils. If bow hairs are handled, it will prevent the bow from playing correctly.
Bass students need Bass rosin, intended only for bass bows.
Shoulder Rest (Violin/Viola students only)
We recommend students use a soft foam pad, one the music store or renters supply or sell.
Rock Stop (Cello/Bass students only), Rock stops are meant for keeping the cello or bass from slipping out of the correct playing position. Pictures of two types below.
Rock stop with adjustable strap
*Most of these supplies are included with music store rentals.*
*A music stand is recommended for practice at home.
If you have any questions please contact the orchestra teacher for your child’s school.
Please indicate student’s name, school, and grade, when you send emails.
Mrs. Helen Park
Orchestra Teacher at Fellows, Meeker, and Sawyer Elementary Schools
Mrs. Jennifer Dishman
Orchestra Teacher at Edwards & Mitchell Elementary Schools
jennifer.dishman@ames.k12.ia.us
1. 9 Tips to care for the string instrument in the winter
Tip 1: Keep in the case
Tip 2: Try to avoid any abrupt environmental changes
Tip 3: Don’t leave instruments in the car overnight
Tip 4: Identify humidity levels in your home
Tip 5: Consider humidity/humidifying-specific appliances
Tip 6: Remove rosin dust after every use
Tip 7: Keep instruments away from vents heating/cooling sources
Tip 8: Have extra strings on hand ( this is for teachers :-)
Tip 9: Arrive a little early before rehearsals and performance.
Information regarding Summer String Camp Information
Helpful articles, links and information for parents.
Thinking of purchasing a $200 or less priced instrument? Read this Please
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