In all communities, there is a "language" that is not familiar to everyone else that is not in that community. The string world is no different. Here are some definitions of opportunities for your student that will help you understand the "string community" better.
Master Class- this is a class where very advanced students are taught by a very advanced teacher in front of an audience. Anytime your student can observe be a part of this, it is helpful. This is an event where you arrange the transportation for your student.
Festival- This is where we go and perform in front of judges who are experts in the field of music. We receive scores and get feedback. Parents can be there and be in the audience, but are not required. This is done through a field trip and students are transported by bus.
Solo and Ensemble-This is a festival where small groups or solos perform in front of a judge and awards and feedback are given. This is an event where you arrange the transportation for your student.
Youth Orchestras- These Orchestras meet on a weekly basis and have performances throughout the year. Admission into these orchestras requires an audition. The Youth Orchestras are Carolina Youth Symphony www.carolinayouthsymphony.org and Greenville County Youth Orchestra www.gcyo.net. This is an event where you arrange the transportation, registration, etc. for your student.
Region Orchestra-Information for this orchestra is www.scorchestra.net. This is an orchestra that students audition for in the fall and if accepted perform in a concert in November. This requires one Saturday for the audition and one weekend (Friday afternoon and evening and all day Saturday, performance is Saturday late afternoon).
All State Orchestra- If students make it into the Region Orchestra, they are then allowed to audition for the All State Orchestra. This audition is one they go to the Columbia area in January on a Saturday to audition. If the student makes it, he or she will go to the site that is designated for All State in February for an entire weekend with a performance on Sunday afternoon.
Private lessons- These are paid for by the parent and a student goes either weekly or biweekly to an expert on their instrument. I have a list of private teachers available if any student would like that option.
Cello Choir- This is held in September and students are responsible for transportation,etc. Site changes year to year. It is a group of fantastic cellists from around the state coached by experts on the cello. It is one weekend and the final performance includes all of the cellists ranging from 2nd year to advanced professional.
Violin/Viola Choir- This is held in January or February and students are responsible for transportation,etc. Site changes year to year. It is a group of fantastic violinists and violists from around the state coached by experts on the violin/viola. It is one weekend and the final performance includes all of the violinists and violists ranging from beginner to advanced professional.
ARMES Strings- Students participate in this by audition only and meet at the Fine Arts Center for a class after school that is appropriate for their level of playing. Keep checking the Fine Arts Center web site for audition information. Also, I will be glad to send home information when I get it if this is something your student is interested in.
All County- An orchestra for Greenville County Schools students that is auditioned for.