Henry Clay High School Orchestras

Course Descriptions

Repertory Orchestra:  Students of the Repertory Orchestra must have at least three years of playing experience and the recommendation of the middle school orchestra director. Daily rehearsals are combined with periodic sectional work and individual practice to perform medium grade string orchestra music.  Concerts and a limited number of after school rehearsals occur outside the regular school day.  Additionally, students are encouraged to perform at KMEA Solo & Ensemble, volunteer for community outreach opportunities such as Fiddling Strings, and participate in fundraising and social events including our back-to-school picnic, game nights, and end-of-year awards banquet. A $25 course fee is required as well as a $25 fee for each rented school instrument.

Advanced Symphonic Orchestra:  Students are admitted by audition. Daily rehearsals are combined with periodic sectional work and a strong commitment to individual practice to perform medium/advanced level string orchestra music.  Concerts and after school rehearsals occur outside the regular school day. Students of this orchestra perform at our four annual concerts including KMEA Assessment, as well as graduation at Rupp Arena.  They also have opportunities to participate in KMEA Solo & Ensemble, District Honors Orchestra and All-State, and extracurricular community outreach, fundraising, and social activities.  A $25 course fee is required as well as a $25 fee for each rented school instrument.

Advanced Chamber Orchestra:  Students are admitted by audition.  Daily rehearsals are combined with periodic sectional work and a strong commitment to individual practice to perform advanced level string orchestra music and small ensemble repertoire. Concerts and after school rehearsals occur outside the regular school day.  Students of this orchestra perform at our four annual concerts including KMEA Assessment, as well as graduation at Rupp Arena.  They also participate in KMEA Solo & Ensemble (required), District Honors Orchestra and All-State (required), and extracurricular community outreach, fundraising, and social activities.  A $25 course fee is required as well as a $25 fee for each rented school instrument.