Auditioning for CCSD School of the Arts High School Orchestra

http://www.soaorchestra.org/ http://soa.ccsdschools.com/

Students can apply and audition for the Charleston County School of the Arts (SOA), High School Orchestra (HSO) program. SOA is annually recognized as one of the best academically challenging high schools in our state, has competed and won top scores and awards in orchestra competitions, and has some of the most comprehensive opportunities for students to pursue their artistic passions. The SOA HSO is under the leadership of Dr. Christopher Selby, a nationally recognized string clinician, author, and orchestra director. You can find a wealth of information about this program by visiting the orchestra and school websites listed above. All interested 8th grade students should apply and audition to be a part of this high level, established, and well supported orchestra program. Currently there are 4 high schools in CCSD that offer HSO: James Island Charter, SOA, Wando, and West Ashley. Students and parents may elect to attend another school even if they are accepted to SOA, but will not have the opportunity to apply and audition if they miss the deadline. Please don't let your child miss out on this wonderful opportunity.

CCSD District Orchestra

http://districtorchestras.wixsite.com/ccsd

Charleston County Schools offers district level orchestra programs to CCSD string orchestra students. Prospective students must be recommended by their teacher, pass an audition, and participate in the strings orchestra program at their school if one is offered. Students must be able to play the required scales, perform a solo from the approved list or of similar caliber, and sightread. Please speak with Ms. Harbison for audition help. The goal of the district orchestras is to provide a challenging orchestral experience for gifted CCSD string students beyond that normally provided by the general school program in order to achieve their potential. These orchestras allow students to perform with gifted and talented students from all areas of Charleston County, work closely with conductors, study advanced orchestra literature, and achieve higher performance capabilities. District Orchestras hold rehearsals weekly on Monday evenings at SOA, operate on a semesterly basis, and hold auditions and performances each semester. If you are interested in auditioning, please contact Ms. Harbison for an application.

SCMEA Region and All-State Orchestra

http://www.scmea.net/divisions/orchestra-division/region-orchestra/

All orchestra students have the opportunity to audition for the Low-country Regions Orchestra Clinic & Concert each October. Students who prepare fully and show up to audition will receive extra credit even if they are not accepted. This can be a very challenging but positive experience for students and the key is in attitude and preparation. Private lessons can be very helpful for preparation, but are not necessary to succeed-- Talk with Ms. Harbison about options!

All SC middle & high school orchestra students that are enrolled in their school's orchestra programs are eligible to audition for the annual Regions Orchestra Clinic & Concert. The Lowcountry Region Orchestra (region 4) is a two-day event held November 11-12th for the strongest string players in the Coastal Carolina region. On average, over 500 students audition each year to try and land a spot in the top 60 for their grade divisions: 6-8th grade, 9-10th grade, and 11-12th grade. Students who participate in their Regions Orchestra may audition for the South Carolina All-State Orchestra, drawing from the most talented players in the entire state. Both events are wonderful opportunities for students to perform with the finest student musicians in South Carolina and to perform under the direction of a nationally/internationally renowned conductor. A private teacher is strongly encouraged if you pass the audition and need to prepare for regions or all-state weekend.

SCMEA Solo and Ensemble Festival

http://www.scmea.net/divisions/orchestra-division/solo-and-ensemble-festival/

I encourage interested students to participate in our state's Solo & Ensemble (S&E) Festival each spring. This is an excellent opportunity for the students to perform solo or as a small ensemble, and receive constructive critiques regarding their performance technique and musical interpretation. Participants will also receive a certificate of participation, comments from the judges, and a medal if they score high marks. If you are interested, see Ms. Harbison for more information and a registration form. Students can receive extra credit for auditioning.

Private Lessons

I encourage highly motivated children, as well as those that need extra support, to consider private lessons. While we make good progress when I see students in a mixed ensemble every day, great strides can be made with one-on-one instruction. Private instructors teach at the student's pace, and help each student develop technical and musical skills specific to their instruments. These skills can be well applied in an orchestra setting, and in most cases, students who work with a private instructor progress much faster than those who do not. Teacher fees and lesson lengths vary. If you are interested in getting instruction, see below for a list of local private teachers.