The Jackson-area orchestra program is a comprehensive string orchestra program for students in grades 4-8. There are three levels of orchestra (Preparatory, Intermediate, and Concert) and a Fiddle Group called Wired Up. Students may choose to study violin, viola, cello, or bass.
Preparatory Orchestra and Intermediate Orchestra students receive one 30-minute small group lesson each week during the school day at their respective schools. In addition, those students are bused to Jackson Middle School one day per week after school for full rehearsal.
Concert Orchestra students receive a 45-minute group lesson each week during the school day at Jackson Middle School. In addition, all Concert Orchestra students meet on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays before school for their rehearsals.
Students from Ardmore Elementary School, Westmore Elementary School, York Center Elementary School, and Jackson Middle School participate in the program. First-year students are placed in the Preparatory Orchestra. Second-year students are placed in the Intermediate Orchestra. Students in their third year and beyond are placed in the Concert Orchestra. Middle school students may also choose to be part of the voluntary Chamber Strings group, which meets one day per week after school.
Ms. Vickers began her formal musical training at a young age, starting her string education at the age of two under the guidance of Stan Smith at Aurora Suzuki Violins. In high school, she transitioned to playing the viola and studied under Danny Seidenberg. She pursued her passion for music at Elmhurst University, where she obtained her bachelor's degree in Music Education and studied viola under Ai Melby. In 2020, Ms. Vickers graduated and started her career in education at District U46. This fall will be Ms. Vickers first year in D45!
Aside from her teaching responsibilities, Allison is an accomplished musician who has performed with esteemed groups such as the Chicago Sinfonietta and the Elgin Symphony, and along soloists such as Itzahk Perlman and Rachel Barton Pine. She continues to explore her love for music as a member of the Elmhurst University Philharmonic. In her free time, Allison enjoys engaging in hobbies such as crafts, cooking, and traveling with her family and orchestra friends.