Bettendorf Elementary Orchestras

Students will hear a demonstration of all the instruments available to learn in orchestra and band in Bettendorf. Fourth grade is the year to join orchestra and begin learning to play violin, viola, cello, or bass.

Involvement in orchestra is lots of fun, but there is effort and responsibility involved. These are the responsibilities:

• Rent an instrument at Schultz Strings or West Music, along with the necessary accessories. Please contact an orchestra teacher if the cost of renting an instrument is an obstacle to participating so we can help find a solution.

• 30-minute small group class once per week during the school day at your school

• Large group rehearsal before school one day per week at Bettendorf High School (4th grade). Bus transportation from rehearsal to the elementary buildings is provided.

• Practice! You will be given a list of what to practice and will track your progress in a practice journal. This will take some monitoring and encouragement from grown-ups. Orchestra is a graded class.

• Perform in three evening concerts in November, February, and May.

• We consider participation in orchestra a long-term commitment, expecting students to continue throughout elementary, middle, and high school.