When is orchestra class?
Orchestra classes at Harmon, Toll Gate and Diley are during the school day. Students meet as violin/viola class or cello/bass class and meet with their orchestra teacher for 40 minutes twice per week. In Junior High and High School, orchestra is an elective course during the school day and meets everyday with all instruments.
What if I don’t know anything about music?
That’s ok! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step. First year instruction includes everything from how to take care of the instrument to reading notes and rhythms. We will guide your child through the entire process of learning the violin, viola, cello or double bass! All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sound.
How much out of school time is required?
Music is no different than any other curricular area. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every week. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun. There will be 2-3 evening concerts where the students will get to showcase what they are learning in class. To prepare for these performances there will also be 3-4 (total) evening rehearsals!
What instrument should my child play?
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that they play something that they enjoy. We encourage you to visit the which instrument pages on this website or visit the website www.bepartofthemusic.org, watch the different instrument videos with your child, and discuss the different options. We will also help guide your child based on their musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. When debating between instruments it is best to choose the instrument your child likes "hearing" the most. Your child knows what they want, you know your child, and we know music. Together we will find the instrument that your child will not only enjoy but will give them the best chance at musical success.
What are the costs?
The costs associated with music depend on which instrument your child chooses and if you already own an instrument. You can rent a quality instrument from a local music store at a very reasonable price. The store that is best for stringed instruments in Central Ohio is by far and away The Loft Violin Shop. If financial constraints prevent you from being able to do this, please contact your music teacher. We will not let instrument availability or financial constraints keep your child from participating. We have some school instruments available for students who are unable to rent from a music store.
How do I get an instrument?
Please rent an instrument from The Loft Violin Shop. They have great student level instruments and excellent service. The school provides cello and bass instruments for at school use. We also have some school owned instruments available for at home use.....especially cello and bass. Please contact your orchestra teacher if you are worried about affording an instrument for your child. More information can be found on the Instrument Rental page.
What if I have other questions?
Please know that we are here to answer any and all questions that you may have. Please contact one of our orchestra teachers with any other questions you may have.
Harmon- Mr. Koogler jordan_koogler@plsd.us
Toll Gate- Mr. Watts thomas_watts@plsd.us
Diley- Mr. Trapkus. paul_trapkus@plsd.us