How To Improve
STEP-UP INSTRUMENTS
As you progress and improve as a musician, you may find that your instrument is holding you back from the sound and technique you want to produce. If you are serious about your commitment to orchestra, and wish to advance to the next level, you may want to consider the possibility of a step-up instrument.
Step-up instruments are of a higher quality than student-level instruments, and can offer you a much better overall sound. If you are currently renting, you can apply all that you have paid on your rental instrument toward the step-up instrument. Other companies offer quality step-up instruments as well.
If your family is interested in getting a step-up instrument, you can talk with your music dealer or contact Mr. Kotchenruther to get more information.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Private lessons are a way to really improve playing skills and to develop technique in an individualized way. Lessons are valuable to challenge more advanced students, as well as helping students who might need more reinforcement of the skills taught in class. Please consider having your child participate in private lessons this year, to help them reach their maximum potential on their instrument. If you are interested in getting a private teacher, Mr. Kotchenruther has a list of area teachers that can be given to you upon request.
YOUTH ORCHESTRAS
We are fortunate to have two outstanding programs in Grand Rapids. The Grand Rapids Youth Symphony is sponsored by the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra and rehearses Monday evenings throughout the school year. Auditions are in the Spring. You can find out more information by going to their website:
http://www.grsymphony.org/grs/affiliates/youth-symphony-classical-orchestra
There is also an outstanding youth orchestra program sponsored by the St. Cecilia Music Center. Rehearsals are also on Monday evenings. Auditions for this school year are in early September, and again later in January for the second semester. You can find out more about the youth programs from their website: