Skaneateles Orchestras

The Skaneateles Orchestra Program at a glance

Sarah Moth, 4-5th grade director

Amanda Franco, 6-12th grade director

The Skaneateles Orchestra program begins in 4th grade and continues through high school. Students may study violin, viola, cello, and double bass, and learn in both ensemble and small group settings. Students in orchestra develop listening skills, learn to blend their sound with others, and synchronize their playing to create a unified musical experience.

For a comprehensive list of ensembles and curricular opportunities provided through the Skaneateles music program, visit our Classes and Ensembles page.

Middle School Orchestra Program (Grades 6-8)

Students who play string instruments (violin, viola, cello, and bass) participate in either the 6th Grade Orchestra or the combined 7th/8th Grade Orchestra. These ensembles meet every other day throughout the school year and students attend weekly small-group lessons with similar instruments. Students in these ensembles learn and practice rehearsal skills and ensemble awareness, while also focusing on their individual playing abilities and building their skills and confidence in small group lessons.

Skaneateles 6th grade and 7/8 Orchestra perform three concerts during the school year. There are a variety of field trip possibilities each year from Music in the Parks experiences (Darien Lake Music Festival or Seabreeze Music Days), to watching live performances by our local professional orchestras such as Syracuse Symphony.

High School Orchestra Program (Grades 9-12)

The Skaneateles High School Orchestra is open to students in grades 9–12 who dedicate time to playing their string instruments and honing their skills. High School orchestra rehearses daily throughout the school year, and students continue with weekly small-group lessons to enhance their individual musicianship. Students perform advanced repertoire and explore new techniques specific to their instrument. Students are introduced to shifting and changing positions, explore a variety of articulation, and develop chordal understanding within the orchestra.

High School Orchestra students may be recommended for participation in the Auburn Chamber Orchestra, which is an extra-curricular community Symphony Orchestra directed by Dr. Victor Vallo. The ACO performs high level performances at four concerts each year held in the Auburn area. For more information, visit www.auburnchamberorchestra.com

The High School Orchestra performs three scheduled school performances annually. This ensemble also prepares repertoire for Waterman, State Street, and Middle School students to perform around Halloween, and has performed at The Everson Museum in recent winters. Skaneateles High School Orchestra has developed a relationship with the SUNY Fredonia School of Music and Dr. Emily Schaad, and students traveled to SUNY Fredonia in March 2025.