Embedded Files
What We Teach
There are four instruments offered in orchestra- Violin, Viola, Cello and Bass. Each instrument has it's own unique sound and students are typically drawn to a certain one. Any size student can play any size instrument and there is no such thing as a "girl" or "boy" instrument. Much like Harry Potter's wand, let the instrument pick you! Check out the videos below for a more in-depth look at each instrument.
Violin
The violin is the smallest and highest pitched instrument. You hold this instrument on your left shoulder- regardless if you are right or left handed!
Viola
The viola (vee-oh-la) is a medium sized instrument with a slightly lower sound. You hold this instrument on your left shoulder- regardless if you are right or left handed!
Cello
The cello is a larger, deeper, more mellow sounding instrument. This instrument is held up and supported by an end pin. Definitely NOT held on your shoulder!
Bass
The bass is the largest instrument in orchestra. It has a deep, rich sound and is played in a variety of performing groups. Also held up by an end pin and definitely NOT held on your shoulder!
NEXT STEP...
Renting an instrument is easier than you might think and the preferred way to begin your Pike Orchestra journey.
Bell's Music Shop has been the preferred vendor for many years in NISD and takes great care of our families. They deliver the instrument right to Pike along with the needed supplies so it's there for your child on the first day of school. And at the end of three years, you own the instrument!
Please DO NOT purchase an instrument for your child at this point. If the price seems "too good to be true", it is!!! Many of the "great deals" you might find are sub par instruments that are hard to play, difficult to tune and will ultimately lead to tears and frustration at home. A good rule of thumb is- Don't buy an instrument from the same place you can get toilet paper!
Rental not in the budget? No problem! Students will never be denied the opportunity to play an instrument due to finances. E-mail Ms. Lang for more information about obtaining a school-owned instrument.
Instrument Selection
Instrument selection will be on April 11 from 9:00am-2:00pm in the GPMS Orchestra Room. This is a great opportunity to meet other future Panthers and find the perfect fit for you. Please make every effort to attend this day! This will help insure that your student's instrument and supplies will be delivered to school prior to the first day of school. If you cannot, please notify Ms. Lang so that we can communicate and get your student sized at home so they can be ready to go on day one!
GPMS Beginner Orchestra Supply List
Required Supplies - Violin & Viola
Instrument/Bow/Case
Rosin
Polish Cloth
Kun or Everest Shoulder Rest
Shoulder Rest Bag (if it does not fit in the case)
Music Stand (for practicing at home)
Tuner - D'Addario Mini
Method Book - Sound Innovations Book 1
Required Supplies - Cello & Bass
Instrument/Bow/Case
Rosin
Polish Cloth
Rock Stop
Music Stand (for practicing at home)
Tuner - D'Addario Mini
Method Book - Sound Innovations Book 1
Every instrument requires a specific set of supplies and is essential to your student's success in Orchestra. You can make this part of your one-stop-shop when reserving your instrument or you can purchase items individually from your favorite "deliver-to-your-door" source.
Page updated
Report abuse