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Why join Orchestra?
Why join Orchestra?
- Learning to play an instrument is so much FUN!
- Perform music with friends!
- Excel in other classes!
Performance Opportunities!
Orchestra Classes:
Beginner Orchestra
(First year Players)
Sinfonia Orchestra
(0-1 Year Experience)
Philharmonic Orchestra
(1-2 Years Experience)
Symphony Orchestra
(1-2 Years Experience)
Orchestra Instruments:
Orchestra Instruments:
Violin Viola Cello Bass
6th Grade Orchestra:
McLean 6th Grade Orchestra is made up of first year players. Student's who are just starting the process of learning how to play their selected instrument. In this ensemble, the students will learn the basic technique to play their instrument, basic rhythm and the qualities it takes to play in the ensemble. This group has the opportunity to take part in ALL Concerts, and Solo an Ensemble in May.
Sinfonia Orchestra:
The Sinfonia Orchestra (Sub Non-Varsity) is made up of second to third year players. In this ensemble, the students will continue to work on basic techniques and rhythms a little more advanced than the Beginner Orchestra. This ensemble will take part in ALL Concerts and have to chance to take part in FWISD Solo an Ensemble.
Philharmonic Orchestra:
The Philharmonic Orchestra (Non-Varsity) is made up of second to third year players. In this ensemble, the students will continue to work on techniques and rhythms a little more advanced than the Sinfonia Orchestra. While in this ensemble we will introduce Two Octave Scales and Vibrato. This ensemble will take part in ALL Concerts and have to chance to take part in Solo an Ensemble. Also, have the chance to participate in the All-Region Orchestra process. The Philharmonic Orchestra also takes part in after school sectionals and rehearsals.
Symphony Orchestra:
The Symphony Orchestra (Varsity) is made up of second to third year players. In this ensemble, the students will continue to work on techniques and rhythms a little more advanced than the Philharmonic Orchestra. While in this ensemble we will continue to improve their Two Octave Scales and Vibrato. This ensemble will take part in ALL Concerts and have to chance to take part in Solo an Ensemble. Also, have the chance to participate in the All-Region Orchestra process. The Symphony Orchestra also takes part in after school sectionals and rehearsals.
What does Orchestra Do?
In Orchestra, you are going to learn how to play one of the string instruments (Names above). Through your first year of playing, you will be learning how to play your instrument. While giving 4 concerts your first year. As you go on into 7th grade and 8th grade, you will then have the opportunity to perform and compete in UIL Concert and Sight Reading Evaluation. Here we have the chance to go an compete for a trophy. In my time here at McLean MS and McLean 6th, the Orchestra and I received Division I ratings. Come and join the tradition that is being a McLean Orchestra student!
Orchestra Photos and Fun!
McLean MS Orchestra Concert!
McLean MS Orchestra Concert!
McLean 6th Demonstration Concert!
McLean 6th Demonstration Concert!
Come and join the fun being a McLean Orchestra student!
Come and join the fun being a McLean Orchestra student!
Director of Orchestras, Mr. Matthew Gonzales
Matthew Gonzales
Matthew Gonzales
Matthew Gonzales is the Director of Orchestras at McLean Middle School in Fort Worth, TX. Mr. Gonzales is a graduate from the University of Texas at Arlington, in which he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education. With Violin being his primary instrument, he studied conducting under Dr. Clifton Evans and Violin under Dr. Martha Walvoord. Mr. Gonzales started his teaching career in 2021, under his direction the ensembles at McLean have consistently earned Sweepstakes ratings from UIL Concert and Sightreading Evaluation. He is an active member of the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) and Texas Orchestra Directors Association (TODA). He is also on the staff for the UTA Summer Strings Camp every Summer being a dorm counselor and Sectional Coach. In the classroom, Mr. Gonzales emphasizes creativity and collaboration, encouraging students to explore their musical identities. He believes integrating innovative teaching methods that cater to diverse learning styles, ensures that every student will feel valued and inspired. His commitment to his students is deeply shown and is appreciated by all.
In his free time, Mr. Gonzales enjoys time with family and friends. Attending concerts, going to sporting events, and being out in nature.
Contact info: Matthew.gonzales@fwisd.org
McLean Orchestras Website: https://sites.google.com/teachers.fwisd.org/mcleanorchestras/home
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