LaGrange Elementary School District 102 Orchestra Program

Welcome to the District 102 Orchestra Program! 

As part of LaGrange Elementary School District 102, the orchestra program consists of around 200 students participating in grades 5-8. Students have the opportunity to partake in string instrument instruction on either Violin, Viola, Cello, or Bass. We offer five different ensembles in district 102: Beginning Orchestra, Intermediate Orchestra, Park Symphony Orchestra, Prelude, and our newest ensemble, String Fusion!

Although many parents and students see orchestra as a class where students learn to play an instrument, it is much more than that. It is the development of a family of friends that could last a lifetime. It is also the establishment of some rather profound environmental influences which will determine much of your child's success in all aspects of education, not just in the orchestra program.

We know that orchestra students represent the top level of the academic scale in our schools. We also know that orchestra students are the ones who enjoy a successful high school career, go on to college, and become future leaders in our society. There is a definite link between the top achiever academically and the orchestra student. 

One of the most positive impressions you can offer your child is the chance to learn self-discipline at the highest level via participation in orchestra. Their social skills, communication skills, self concepts, cooperative talents and creative mind will all be nurtured through their study of instrumental music. These life skills will serve as an important foundation as they take on various responsibilities in their future. 

Orchestra is M-U-S-I-C! 

                      M aking music with a family of lifelong friends. 

                      U nderstanding how commitment and dedication can lead to success.  

                        S haring the joy and rewards of working together. 

                       I ndividuals who develop self-confidence. 

                      C reativity – expressing yourself in a universal language. 

-Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser

The goal of the District 102 Orchestra Program is to provide a disciplined, nurturing, and safe educational environment in which students can explore the various facets of instrumental music performance. We believe in promoting student growth by striving to meet the needs of our diverse learners while fostering a life-long love of music and learning.