Our Cadet Orchestra is comprised of mostly 7th grade students who have been playing since elementary school - usually two years of experience. Students build on foundations such as D and A string notes, all notes within the D Major scale, quarter, half, whole and eighth notes and the accompanying rests that pair with them. Throughout the year we review/introduce various new key signatures including but not limited to: G Major, C Major, A Major, F Major, Bb Major. Students will learn new rhythms throughout the year as well as how to play with an ensemble. We also welcome beginners into this group! (If your student is a beginner who is wishing to join Orchestra, they will need to do additional practice with Mrs. P after school - private lessons are recommended to catch up to the rest of the ensemble)

Supplies your student will need: 

• Instrument

• Music Binder (please 1" should be fine) - should be separate from other subjects

• Rosin

• Cleaning Cloth

• Shoulder Rest (violin/viola)

• Rock Stop (Cello - attached to chair, Bass - "hockey puck")

• Students will receive printed music and will not need a book purchased to start the year (subject to change later)

Our Performance Orchestra is our middle level ensemble comprised of students who were previously in the Cadet Orchestra. Students continue to refine intonation, bow usage, introduce more key signatures and time signatures and start to shift to higher positions. This ensemble can have junior high and high school students depending on student numbers. 7th graders can audition to be part of this ensemble but it is recommended they stay in Cadet Orchestra.

Supplies your student will need: 

• Instrument

• Music Binder (please 1" should be fine) - should be separate from other subjects

• Rosin

• Cleaning Cloth

• Shoulder Rest (violin/viola)

• Rock Stop (Cello - attached to chair, Bass - "hockey puck")

• Students will receive printed music and will not need a book purchased to start the year (subject to change later)

Concert Orchestra focuses on the introduction and development of advanced string techniques. Literature from all periods of music and a variety of musical genres may be explored and prepared for performance. Participation in Concert Orchestra involves rigorous rehearsals, and multiple performance opportunities at concerts and festival competitions. Opportunities for overnight and out-of-state travel with this group are possible. This Orchestra may be expected to perform at school and community functions. Involvement may include occasional, but required practices before and/or after school. Younger students may audition to be part of this ensemble - please contact Mrs. Pizzirusso

Supplies your student will need: 

• Instrument

• Music Binder (please 1" should be fine) - should be separate from other subjects

• Rosin

• Cleaning Cloth

• Shoulder Rest (violin/viola)

• Rock Stop (Cello - attached to chair, Bass - "hockey puck")

• Students will receive printed music and will not need a book purchased to start the year (subject to change later)