• Advanced Orchestra
• Grade: 8th and 9th
• Prerequisites: Successful Completion of the Intermediate Orchestra or equivalent experience with instrument
• Fulfills the High School Graduation Requirement for the Fine Arts (9th grade only - 10 credits)
• Is an approved UC/CSU Course List as part of the A-G Requirements (F)

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The Advanced Orchestra is open to 8th and 9th grade players of orchestral string instruments (violin, viola, cello, and bass) who have participated in the Intermediate Orchestra or have equivalent experience in their instrument. Advanced development of technical instrumental skills, including note reading, bowing and fingering skills, intonation, ensemble playing, and general musicianship, are addressed through the use of a wide variety of programmed music selections and practical music theory.

Students are required to practice outside of class as homework for 80 minutes every week and expected to spend more time if needed to master the demands of their instrument, the repertoire, and the expectation of excellence the program represents; therefore access to an instrument for use at home is essential. School instruments are available for use at school and at home and will be assigned to all students who need to use one; information will be sent home to request the use of an instrument, and they will be assigned shortly after school begins.

The Advanced Orchestra will participate in several concerts during the school year, during, and outside of class time. This may include rehearsals set outside of the school day. All outside of class concerts and concert-prep rehearsals are mandatory and will be a part of students’ grades. Each year, the Advanced Orchestra holds a formal Winter and Spring Concert, will perform the Davis Schools Orchestral Music Association sponsored Wennberg Music Festival held at the Mondavi Center, will travel to their 'feeder' elementary schools to perform a series Childrens' Concerts for the elementary students, and will participate in many other various school events. The Advanced Orchestra also participates in a variety of fun team and musicianship building educational field trips scheduled throughout the year. All rehearsal and performance dates are announced the first week of school via class room handouts, the School Loop student websites for Emerson and Harper Jr. High Schools, and through direct email.