Rockestra

Rockestra performing "Back in Black"

Rockestra Performing "Sweet Child O' Mine"

Purpose:

The Rockestra is an extension of the Middlesex Music Program. It offers students intense, small-group experience with rock, blues, pop, and other modern music. Due to the advanced level of the music and the number of students who wish to join the group, all members are selected by audition.


Schedule

The Rockestra meets before school on Thursdays from 7:15-7:45. Additional rehearsals and sectionals are scheduled as needed throughout the school year.

This year, Rockestra will be coached online. I will still be auditioning students, and rehearsals will consist of creating projects as a whole ensemble as well as smaller 6-8 person bands which I will coach. Plan to create music videos, learn about recording software and perform with famous guest musicians. We will create projects to share with friends and family- perhaps even perform safely in the community.

We will start to rehearse virtually Tuesdays after school from 3:30-4:30. (Let me know if this day does not work for you- I can change only if there is enough interest)

Check out how this Rock orchestra program thrived in COVID times! (Included are famous Rock String Players from all over the Country)


Student Responsibilities

The Rockestra is an honorary group and therefore its members are expected to:

  • Demonstrate advanced musicianship and note-reading skills.

  • Arrive on time for all rehearsals.

  • Practice ensemble music at home on a regular basis.

  • Come prepared with their instrument, music, pencil, and all necessary supplies.

  • Demonstrate self-discipline and responsible behavior.

  • Students are encouraged, but not required, to study with a private teacher outside of school.

Auditions

The Rockestra is made up of violinists, violists, cellists, bassists (upright and electric), a drummer, a pianist, and a guitarist. Auditions are held in late September.

Sign up for an audition time here


During your audition you will be asked to do the following:

  • Perform the assigned audition solo.

  • Sight read a short selection.

  • Play a D, G, C, and F major scale with staccato and legato bowing.

  • Drummers will be asked to play a jazz, funk, and rock beat.

  • Guitarists MUST know how to read chord symbols and standard notation. Music will NOT be provided in TAB.

  • All auditions will be video-recorded so the director can give students a ‘second listen.’ The video will not be used for any other purpose.

Tips on a Good Audition:

  • Speed does not matter- I am looking for you to play with a steady beat. (I should be able to tap my foot along)

  • LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN. All music performed in the Rockestra comes from a tradition of recorded music. Language is absorbed and learned by listening to the original recordings.

  • Listen to the audition piece and tap your foot to the beat. Do not come to the audition having not listened to the piece.

  • For sight reading, follow the STARS acronym (If you want to be sight reading STARS....)

    • Sharps and Flats (What is in the key signature?)

    • Time Signature (4/4, 2/4, 3/4, 6/8...)

    • Accidentals (Are there any sharps or flats in the middle of the music selection to be aware of?)

    • Rhythm (Before playing notes, make sure you can tap your foot to a steady beat and speak the rhythms in your head)

    • Signs (repeats, articulations, pizz/arco, dynamics)