Noecker Orchestra
Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year. I hope you had a great summer! I am excited to build upon your children's hard work from last year and I am looking forward to helping them grow and expand their skills!
Even if your child has never played an instrument before, they are welcome to join the orchestra! My goal and my job is to welcome any child who has an interest in learning to play an instrument and giving them the tools they need to succeed.
If this will be your child's first year playing an instrument, they will start off taking weekly lessons and once they are ready, they can join the morning Orchestra rehearsals. 4th grade students will need to take a playing test before they can join the morning orchestra rehearsals as well.
The instruments included in our Orchestra program include the violin, viola, cello, and double bass.
If a student wants to switch instruments, that is not a problem. I am always looking for students to play low (bass) instruments such as the cello and double bass.
The most important thing we need to figure out to get started is who has instruments and if they still have their method books. I will be teaching with the “Essential Elements” method books.
If you do not have an instrument currently, here are a couple options for renting an instrument for the year. This year we are teaming up with the Music Shop in Boonton. They are a family owned and operated business that have always treated families and teachers well.
Here’s their information:
The Music Shop - https://www.themusicshop.com/aerntplan.aspx
Another option to rent which was used in the past is Music & Arts. Here is their information as well.
Music & Arts - https://www.musicarts.com/rentals
In addition, it is important not to purchase a “cheap” instrument online without checking in first. Unfortunately, there is a lot of junk being sold out there, and trying to play a crummy instrument can really impact your children’s desire to continue learning how to play.
If you already own an instrument, there is no need to rent one. It may need to be checked out and cleaned before it can be properly used. Let me know as soon as possible if that is what you plan to do.
Orchestra Instruction
Each student will receive one pull-out lesson per week. In addition, we have one Orchestra rehearsal every Tuesday morning before school. It’s really important to make these rehearsals as they are really the only time we get to rehearse as an ensemble and work on those crucial ensemble building skills to be successful for our performances.
All Orchestrta students will also participate in the Orchestra Karate program. Depending on their level of expertise, I will recommend whether they should start at Level 1 (beginner) Level 2, or Level 3. I will post more information on Google Classroom, but basically students will need to pass off excerpts of music from their method books and when they have received all the checks for a belt, they will have earned a belt. It’s a fun way to motivate students to practice and keep track of their progress throughout the year.
Required Materials
Sheet music, method book, and folder
Instrument and bow
Rosin, shoulder rest (violin/viola), rock stop/seat strap (cello)
Music stand (recommended for at-home practice)
Classroom Rules and Procedures
Respect teacher and students in the music classroom. Handle instruments and other materials with care.
Keep hands to yourself and your own instrument. Do not trade instruments with other students.
Bring instrument and music folder to every lesson.
Enter the classroom quietly, set up your instrument, and warm-up individually until the teacher comes to the front of the room.
Play instruments only when asked by the teacher.
Always try your best!
Pull-out Lessons
Students will participate in a small group lesson each week. Lessons will occur on the same day most of the time, although it could occasionally change due to vacation days, scheduling conflicts, etc.
Morning Band Rehearsal
All students in Concert Band will have one early morning rehearsal a week on Thursdays from 8:00am-8:50am. Rehearsals will begin on Tuesday, September 23rd!
Practicing
Consistency is key! Meaningful and consistent practice is the only way to improve skill level and create lasting results. Playing a stringed instrument is a physical, kinesthetic activity. New muscle groups must build strength and endurance. Students who spend even a short amount of time playing their instrument every day are immensely more successful than students who do not. It is recommended to practice for at least 15 minutes a day, 5 days a week.
Encouraging students to practice is a team effort between parents and teacher. Please do not hesitate to reach out regarding this matter. Practicing is similar to homework, even the most motivated student will need to be reminded from time to time.
Parents’ Responsibilities
Help your child be prepared to do their best at lessons.
Help your child find time to practice. Ask your child to show you what they have been learning in lessons.
Help your child care for their instrument and music folder.
Help your child have concert attire ready for performances.
Attend performances. Applaud your child and their friends; the recognition will be well-deserved!
Keep open communication with the teacher, especially if any difficulties arise.
Grading Policy
Instrumental Lesson Preparation 25%
Ensemble Preparation (morning rehearsals) 25%
Performances 20%
Playing Tests & Orchestra Karate 20%
Practice Journals 10%
More information about grading will be posted on Google Classroom.
Concert Dates:
Wednesday, December 10th - Winter Concert
Wednesday, May 27th - Spring Concert
Contact
Sean Gavarny - Roseland Music Teacher
E-mail: sgavarny@roselandnjboe.org