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Welcome to Instrumental Music
Orchestra Introduction Video
Get a short introduction to what playing in orchestra is like before checking out the individual instruments below!
Band Introduction Video
Get a short introduction to what playing in the band is like before checking out the individual instruments below!
Orchestra Instruments
The instruments below are the instruments you can sign up for this year!
Violin
Highest string instrument, reads treble clef, often plays melody
Cello
Larger than violin or viola, reads bass clef, plays low notes and bass lines
Viola
Slightly larger than violin, reads alto clef, plays inner harmonic lines
Bass
Largest instrument in the orchestra, reads bass clef, plays low notes and bass lines
Band Instruments
The instruments below are the instruments you can sign up for this year! If you're a 5th grader and you already play a different instrument - don't worry, you'll be able to continue that instrument.
Flute
Highest woodwind instrument, made of metal, makes sound by blowing across a tone hole
Clarinet
Woodwind instrument, made of wood or plastic, makes sound with a single wooden reed, often plays melody
Alto Saxophone
Woodwind instrument, made of metal, makes sound with a single wooden reed
Trumpet
Highest brass instrument, makes sound by buzzing lips, 3 valves, reads treble clef
Trombone
Low brass instrument, makes sound with buzzing lips, only instrument with a slide, reads bass clef
Baritone & Tuba
Low brass instruments, makes sound with buzzing lips, 3 valves, reads bass clef
Percussion (drum AND mallets)
Makes sound by striking with sticks/mallets, learn two instruments: snare drum and mallet percussion
Please note: all students in percussion will learn to play both drums AND mallets.
Interested? Visit the "Enrollment Information" page to find out more about enrollment information.
Enrollment for the 2024-2025 School Year is closed.
This site will provide you with information about the instrumental music program in the Howard County Public Schools System. Please use the navigation toolbar on the left to find more specific information.
Any questions should be directed to Ms. Karissa Strawley at