Welcome to the RRPS 5th Grade Orchestra Program at JHE
Taught by Mr. Adrian Baca
Your student has the option to choose one of these instruments in elementary orchestra
Violin Viola Cello
String instruments come in many sizes to accommodate the unique size of each player. We will size your students during the first two weeks of class. Please wait until I send home your child's instrument certificate with their size.
Class will be held Every Tuesday and Thursday from 8:05 to 9:00 AM
(Subject to Change)
RRPS has a limited number of instruments available. If you are in need of a district instrument please let me know and we can get the process started.
We suggest that you rent an instrument (rather than buy) during the first year. Instruments come in many sizes to accommodate the size of each child. Smaller violins and violas rent as low as $20 a month! This money can be applied towards the purchase of the instrument if you choose to own the instrument later in the year. It is recommended that you be wary of internet and pawn shop purchases and avoid boxed instruments available at large discount chain stores. Many of these instruments are poorly constructed and must be modified to be playable (often at a greater cost than the original purchase price). Especially avoid instruments that are painted white, black, or bright rainbow colors. The finish and materials used to make these instruments do not allow the production of a quality sound or the ability for the instrument to be adjusted/repaired when theneed arises. A poor-quality instrument interferes with the individual students’ learning as well as the learning of others in the class. The sources below sell and/or rent instruments that are well constructed. Prices vary. Higher priced instruments will have a more pleasant sound and are easier to play. All three businesses have great customer service and can help guide you in rental or purchase options.
If you intend to purchase, be sure the seller allows you to try an instrument out without the obligation to buy. This gives you the opportunity to get the instrument looked over by a teacher and at least one other qualified string specialist before making a final decision.
Registration will be open (INSERT DATES HERE). Pleas be prepared to pay an $85 registration fee while registereing. Studnet who have not registeres and paid by (INSERT DATE HERE) will not be eligible to participapte. You can access the registration on the RRPS Fine Arts website. If you are applying for a district-owned isntrument, you much register by the end of the day on (INSTER DATE HERE) so the office staff has enough time to fairly consider your application. If you register after this date you may still be considered, we just cannot guarentee an instrument placement. District owned instrument rental fee is $50 for the whole school year. RRPS is dedicated to making music available to all. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns.
Robertson and Sons Violin Shop
3201 Carlisle Blvd. NE
Albuquerque
889-2999
Shar Products Company
2465 S. Industrial
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
800-248-7427
Southwest Strings
1721 S. Cherrybell Strav.
Tucson, AZ 85713-1935
800-528-3430
www.swstrings.com
Shoulder Rest (KUN recommended0
Rosin (Comes with school and store rentals)
Soft Cloth (a soft, clean rag or store-bought instrument cleaning cloth)
Luggage tag/name tag (Please write your name, Phone Number and school)
Folding music stand for home practice
Some rentals may include some of the items.
Cello endpin stopper (Xeros endpin belt reccommended)
Rosin (Comes with school and store rentals)
Soft Cloth (a soft, clean rag or store-bought instrument cleaning cloth)
Luggage tag/name tag (Please write your name, Phone Number and school)
Folding music stand for home practice
Some rentals may include some of the items.
Each begginer student will receive a method bok and all sheet music from their teacher. All students will be using the Essential Elements book. This book is purchased with the fee money and are the property of the student once issues. If lost, the book must be replaced by the student since it is a necessary part of our cirriculum.
Consistency is the key to learning any new skill, including a musical instrument. Each class will meet twice a wekk unless notified by a teacher. We will follow the school calendar. If school is closed for any reason, we will not have orchestra class. (example: Parent teacher conferences, holiday, incemenet weather.)
Studnet will need to arrive at any concert in their concert attire. Our end of the year concert with only Joe Harris Elementary Students will be a white shirt, black pants or long black skirt.balck dress, black socks and black shoes. Please let your teacher know if you have any concerns. For all other concerts students will wear blue jeans and the Elementary band t-shirt that is provided through the fee.
The primary way I will communicate with parents in through email, this websites in the announcements section and remind(Insert instructions and code here) . I will do my best so send a monthy newsletter with important updates and information about upcomming events, deadlines and other opportunities for students
Elementary Orchestra is a great way to start a fun adventure and a lifelong love for music. We find our orchestra students continue playing through middle and high school. We have even
seen some students receive scholarships for college! In addition to learning musical skills, your student will build friendships that last a lifetime! Studies show that playing an instrument has a positive impact on a students academic performance, creativity, confidence, mental health, problem solving skills and long term memory. They have also found that playing an instrument can help students develop team skills, such as cooperation, listening and working together as an orchestra.
This year:
We will perform on stages, at schools and exciting locations!
We will be creative and express ourselves through music!
We will take field trips!
We will learn new skills!
Thank you for the opportunity to work with your student. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.
Sincerely,
Mr. Hess
Damon.hess@rrps.net