Signed up for orchestra and wondering what's next? Time to select your instrument or audition for placement if you already play!

Instrument Selection meetings will take place in the Pearson Ranch Middle Orchestra Instrument Selection Meetings will take place in the Pearson Ranch MS Orchestra Room this year on April 1st between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM. The purpose of the Instrument Selection Meetings is to allow your children to try out each of the instruments we offer in the orchestra classroom (violin, viola, cello, double bass, and harp), and determine which instrument they are interested in learning to play. During these meetings, I will advise you about the instrument rental process and answer any other questions you may have. Please attend according to the times listed here.

Is your child interested in learning about the instruments prior to the Instrument Selection meeting? Please visit our "String Instrument Exploration" page to listen to the instruments.

If your child has ~1 year+ of playing experience on one of the orchestra instruments, and plans to audition for placement into the Prelude or Chamber Orchestra, they WILL NOT need to attend an Instrument Selection Meeting. Audition materials for experienced students will be posted HERE on March 6th. Auditions will take place at Pearson Ranch MS in the orchestra room between 12 & 1 PM on Friday, April 21st. If your child with prior playing experience plans to audition, please fill out the Audition Request Google Form.

What instruments are taught in the orchestra classes?

Click here to learn about the instruments!

What are the benefits of participating in orchestra?

• The opportunity to be a part of a team of creative and fun young people.

• Builds a sense of belonging to something unique – a special group working together.

• Teaches self-confidence, cooperation, personal discipline, and concentration.

• Provides excitement through performance of challenging music.

• The opportunity to perform for family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Do I need any previous musical experience to join Orchestra?

A: No previous musical knowledge or experience is needed to enroll in orchestra. We start from the very beginning—how to open the case, care of the instrument, learning the names of the strings, how to bow, where to put the fingers, and read notes and rhythms. You will be amazed how quickly you will be making beautiful music!

Q: What if I already play an instrument?

A: If you already play a stringed instrument we would love to have you! You will need to schedule a time to play for Mrs. Whatley so you can be placed in the appropriate Orchestra class. Please contact her at your earliest convenience for an audition time and requirements.

Q: How do I go about getting an instrument? How much do they cost?

A: You will be expected to rent or purchase an instrument and all the necessary supplies for that instrument. The cost of renting an instrument varies depending on the instrument, but most music companies will rent an instrument for around $30 per month. Think of it as an investment in your child! We want every child to have the opportunity to be in orchestra so school-owned instrument options are available for those who cannot afford to rent or buy. There are a limited number of violas, cellos and basses available for rental from the school.

Q: What is Orchestra like the first year? Do I have to practice?

A: Orchestra is a lot of fun with many opportunities to perform for friends and family! Students are grouped by instrument the first year. We spend each day focusing on how to play our instrument with proper playing technique, always learning new skills and refining old ones. At the same time, we learn to how to read, write and count music.

Yes! In order to be successful, students are required to practice each day outside of class. Practice is not always fun and it is hard work, but being able to perform exciting and beautiful music with your friends is well worth the effort!! In Orchestra, we love to work hard and have fun!