How will my elementary student learn to play in Orchestra?

Pull-out Lessons

Pull-out lessons are where students learn techniques that are specific to their instrument. Students will have one 30 minute lesson a week on their designated lesson days. These will take place during the school day, and they will be pulled out of class in small groups of similar instruments. The lesson schedule will rotate so that students are not missing the same class every single week.

Morning Orchestra

Once a week, schools will also come together for large group morning orchestra rehearsals before school. For this, we divide the district into two main groups for each grade:

• Jay Stream Feeder Orchestra: Students from Carol Stream, Heritage Lakes, and Western Trails Elementary Schools

rehearse at Heritage Lakes Elementary School (925 Woodhill Dr, Carol Stream, IL 60188).

• Stratford Feeder Orchestra: Students from Cloverdale, Elsie Johnson, and Roy DeShane Elementary Schools 

rehearse at Cloverdale Elementary School (1182 Merbach Dr, Carol Stream, IL 60188).

Student drop-off begins at 7:15 a.m. at their respective rehearsal school, and the rehearsal starts promptly at 7:30 a.m. They should bring all of their orchestra supplies, as well as their supplies for the rest of the school day. After rehearsal, students will be bused to their home school for the start of the day at 8:30 a.m.

It’s crucial for students to attend Morning Orchestra because it gives them a chance to learn important skills necessary for playing and interacting in a large ensemble, in addition to preparing concert music. Students will have 1 to 2 required performance events throughout the year. 

Practice Expectations

Students will need to practice 10-15 minutes each day on the given homework assignment from their orchestra director. Practicing and completing homework at home are key to success in orchestra. Due to our limited time to meet during the week, practicing will play an important role in your student’s musical development.

Here are a couple of things to help establish a good practice routine at home:

1. Carve out 10-15 minutes at the same time each day to be designated practice time.

2. Find a quiet and well-lit space to set up your music stand and focus.

3. Have enough space to stand or sit with proper posture.