BHS Chamber Orchestra is an auditioned ensemble, comprised of 9-12th grade orchestra students, who wish to play advanced repertoire with a high caliber of musicianship. Auditions will take place in April. These students have been playing their instruments for a number of years and will have 4-5 performances during the school year. We will also have numerous festivals and honors ensembles in which students who sign up or audition can participate.
Course Description: Chamber Orchestra, by audition only, is a course offering to students who show advanced proficiency on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students enrolled in this course will focus on a high caliber of musicianship and performance. Emphasis will be placed on small and large group rehearsal, individual practice, and the growth of individual standards of excellence. Our aim is that students consider the performance of music as an experience to be enjoyed and valued during their years in high school and beyond.
Course Objective
In orchestra, students will use their instruments to perform alone, and with others in small and large ensembles. Students will also acquire an appreciation for music by completing projects that relate to the core of music, its history, composition, and theory.
Necessary Student Materials
Violin and Viola:
Mute
Pencil
Rosin
Shoulder rest
Strings (change all every year)
Recommended brands: Dominant, Evah Pirazzi, Obligato, Vision
Tuner/metronome
Cello and Bass
Mute
Pencil
Rockstop
Rosin
Strings (change all every two years)
Recommended brands: Larson, Spirocore, Jarger, Helicore, Evah Pirazzi
Tuner/metronome
Concert Attire and Schedule
Please consult the Orchestra Handbook.
Grading Scale
We follow the same grading scale as Bismarck High School.
Grading Criteria
40% is citizenship, playing assessments, quizzes, and written assignments
30% is concert performances and evaluation
20% is comprised of semester
projects and “Giving Bach”
10% is from a semester final
Classroom grades can be accessed through PowerSchool on the school website.
Classroom Expectations
Students will display classroom citizenship at all times.
Make-up Policy
An excused absence from a concert can be made up for points toward your concert grade. Please see
Mrs. Bohlen for details.