Orchestra

The orchestra program begins in 4th grade where students can elect to play violin, viola, cello, or double bass.  Students have small group lessons on their instrument in addition to performing in the full orchestra ensemble.  Lessons are weekly and rotate throughout the day each week.  Orchestra rehearsals take place once a week to prepare for the spring concert.

In middle school (grades 5-7), students continue to have weekly small group lessons on a rotating schedule.  Beginners are welcome at any point during middle school.  Students also participate in orchestra rehearsals and perform two concerts per year in addition to in-school performances.  Many students elect to perform at in-house or NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) solo and small ensemble festivals.  7th grade orchestra students participate in the District String Fest in the spring with all the 7th - 12th grade orchestra students across the district.   The orchestra travels to perform at music festivals such as the Seabreeze Amusement Park Music Days and Darien Lake Music Festival.

At the junior high and high school levels, students have weekly lessons in addition to their orchestra rehearsals.  Students perform several concerts per year.  Cocurricular opportunities are available such as chamber orchestra and pops orchestra.  Students audition for and participate in All-County and All-State festivals as well as in-house or NYSSMA solo and small ensemble festivals.