ORCHESTRA FAQ

Amended 9/21/2024

Q:  Do I have to buy a uniform for orchestra?

A:  No, the district provides a tuxedo or dress for our concert performances. Boys will need to provide the shoes, black socks, tuxedo shirt, cummerbund and bow tie (black).  Girls need  to provide dress shoes and hosiery (leggings, tights or long socks). All students will be in charge of getting their uniform properly hemmed WITHOUT cutting any fabric before the first concert.

Q:  Do I need to buy an orchestra shirt?

A:  Incoming freshmen and new students will receive an official blue navy orchestra polo shirt that will be required dress from time to time for specific performances and/or events. Students who either lost or need a different shirt size will be required to purchase a new one at the beginning of the year. Parents may also purchase this shirt.

Q:  Does the school provide instruments?

A:  The school provides instruments for cello/bass/harp students for use at school for those who have paid their orchestra fee. Cello and bass students are strongly advised to rent an instrument for home use. Violins and violas must be brought back and forth to school and home on a daily basis.

Q:  Where do I store my instrument during school?

A:  Students will be assigned a locker and combination lock to store their instrument and belongings during school. Alternate locks cannot be used. Cello/bass students can also get a lock/locker upon request.

Q:  I think I’ve outgrown my rental instrument.  How do I know when to get a bigger one?

A:  Throughout the school year we do instrument evaluations and check the instrument for repairs and proper sizing. We will make recommendations on sizing and where to rent, repair or upgrade your instrument if needed.  

Q:  Are there any fees associated with orchestra?

A:  Yes, all members must pay a one-time $50 Orchestra Activity Fee. Optional fees include piano accompanist fees, spring trip, banquet, etc.  

Q:  How can I pay for my fees?

A:  The district School Cash system will be used to make the payment for the Orchestra Activity Fee.  Optional fees will be paid for with cash or check.  Fundraising efforts will be utilized to reduce the cost of optional expenses for the whole group (not the individual).

Q:  Do we go on overnight trips in Orchestra? 

A:  Yes, we travel every spring. Past destinations have included:  Los Angeles, New York City, Breckenridge, Washington D.C., Dallas, Corpus Christi, San Antonio. Trips are usually 3 nights/4 days but can be a little longer. We take charter buses for destinations within Texas and travel by air for out of state trips.

Q:  Can anyone go on the trips? 

A:  For out of state trips, only students with at least one year of high school orchestra enrollment (sophomores through seniors) can go. Freshmen will get the opportunity to participate in a day-trip to a nearby destination on a different date. For in-state trips, ALL orchestra members are eligible to attend, regardless of grade level or placement.

Q:  Will there be any performance opportunities during the school year?

A:  Everyone will perform in the Fall Concert, Holiday Concert, Pre-UIL Contest, Pops Concert and UIL Contest. Members in Chamber Orchestra will also perform at the Fifth Grade String Fling as well as elementary tours.  

Q:  What other performance opportunities are there in high school?

A:  You can audition for Region and All-State orchestra, compete at Solo & Ensemble contest, play in the musical pit orchestra (restrictions apply), and participate in organizations like Virtuosi of Houston, Opus 99 and the Houston Youth Symphony (audition based).

Q:  What other activities can I to participate in? 

A:  The orchestra officers plan several parties/activities throughout the year like the Halloween Party, Holiday Party and summer orchestra activities.

Q:  Are there any after school commitments associated with orchestra?

A:  Concerts are mandatory. Additionally, members in Chamber have a one hour weekly after school commitment. In the Spring Semester Chamber students also have a two hour full orchestra commitment every week.  During the Spring semester there may be extra rehearsals after school in preparation for UIL contests and trips.

Q:  I participate in sports or other organizations throughout the year.  What happens when there are conflicts with orchestra?

A:  Whenever there is a conflict with another organization, the first step is to always communicate those issues with both teachers/coaches in a timely manner. It will be with the assistance of the adults to negotiate conflicts but it is your responsibility to make sure they are aware of those issues well in advance. All organizations here at KC have commitments throughout the year that may conflict. I have never had a teacher/coach NOT able to work out a conflict or compromise with me.

Q:  I plan to get a job and/or take drivers education next year.  Will I be excused from rehearsal or concerts?

A:  No. Every effort has been made to make you fully aware of your after school/evening commitments. You must inform your employer about these potential conflicts well in advance. Legally, an employer cannot keep you from fulfilling your school obligations. Driver’s education should be scheduled at a time that does not conflict with your responsibilities to school.

Q:  Do I have to take private lessons to be in orchestra?

A:  Lessons are not required to be in orchestra BUT they are strongly encouraged! There is no better way to improve your string-playing skills then with consistent private instruction. We have private lesson teachers that teach after-school in the practice rooms and some during class and/or Tiger Den. Please consider signing up!