About Us

Kenmore Middle School has two string orchestras: Concert for 6th and 7^th graders and Symphonic for 8^th graders.

Westside Strings consists of 4th and 5th grade students from Kenmore, Lockwood and Frank Love Elementary Schools. For information about the Northshore School District Elementary Orchestra Program, visit https://www.nsd.org/schools/enrichment-activities/elementary-band-orchestra.

All parents and guardians of students in String Orchestra are automatically members of the Orchestra Boosters. Membership is free. There are three short general meetings a year, no membership dues, and lots of volunteer opportunities.

What is the purpose of Orchestra Boosters?

Orchestra Boosters augment the orchestra music program and enhance the learning experience for students. Boosters raise funds for scholarships, coaching programs, and activities not funded by the school or district. Boosters help organize and give voice to parents, guardians, and friends of the music departments. Reserve funds are needed for early field trip reservations, fees, registrations, accommodation deposits, and insurance.

How can I support boosters?

• Participate on the board
• Volunteer to chaperone and/or drive instruments/students for field trips or performances. The office has the volunteer background check and the “Authorization for use of Private Automobile” forms.
• Offer to help with current needs as posted (Butter Braid pickup, rose sales, etc.)
• Donate to the “Kenmore Orchestra Boosters.”
• Attend meetings and share the ideas and/or concerns.
• Let the board know you are interested in taking on a new role or responsibility – if it helps students or parents of orchestra students, please share your idea. Email us at orchestraboosters1@gmail.com

What are the traditional events?

• Bluegrass Workshop – hosted or field trip. Bluegrass professionals expose students to playing by ear. Often, with instruments they may not have played (guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass, etc.)
• Concerts – typically there are two concerts in a year in December and May/June at the Northshore Performing Arts Center. Students are instructed on concert attire and proper behavior at a concert. There is an opportunity to donate to the Kenmore Orchestra Boosters.
• Field trips to participate in competitions or to perform at festivals/events - Seattle Center, Olympia Rotund, Bellingham, Vancouver BC, etc. The district has increasing limitations on field trips, so a lot of volunteer work and support is needed to continue participation.
• Solo-Ensemble – district wide adjudication on a Saturday in January or February. The host school rotates, so cyclically there will be more volunteer needs. Information provided as soon as available. Boosters may opt to supplement or cover fees for ensembles. Paid professionals critique student performances which could lead to honors invitations to state/honors orchestras/etc. These incur additional expenses.
• Hosted events – musicians may have a presentation to train or demonstrate styles to students.
• Wintergrass –High profile event in Bellevue that includes varying levels of youth instruction and involvement. Upper level students may have the opportunity to perform an orchestral arrangement backup for bluegrass big names. Usually involves two Saturday rehearsals.
• Pathways concert – Mid-year the Inglemoor High School orchestra directors setup an inspiring concert showcasing student advancement from elementary (Westside) through Middle to High School.
• Booster Meetings - Typically there are three General Membership meetings and four Board meetings in a year. The first General Membership meeting is traditionally ½ hour prior to the school’s annual evening open house, the second General meeting is usually in January/February prior to a major field trip. The third and final General meeting is typically held ½ hour before to the final concert of the year at the concert venue. The Board meets to prep for meetings, set schedules, and review funding requests.