WELCOME

Welcome to the West Islip Orchestra program! We are so excited that you are here and checking out all that our elementary and middle school orchestra programs have to offer. We are confident you are headed for a fun-filled experience with the West Islip Orchestra program.  You are about to become part of a team of other musicians and we know you will contribute positively to the orchestra. 

WEST ISLIP STRING ORCHESTRA FACULTY

Mrs. Fawess - Mr. Jensen - Mr. Melia - Mrs. Rosenthal - Mr. Willis

ELEMENTARY PROGRAM

• One rotating instrumental class per week (during school hours)

• One before-school ensemble rehearsal per week (does NOT conflict with Chorus rehearsals)

• Students are encouraged to participate in both a 4th Grade Instrumental Ensemble & the 4th Grade Chorus

MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM

• One rotating instrumental class per week (during school hours)

• Orchestra rehearsals meet every other day during the school day as a class period (not a pull-out class)

  • There are additional performance opportunities such as joining the Chamber Orchestra which meets as a club before or after school (depending on the year)

• Students are encouraged to continue to participate in both orchestra and chorus.  There is no conflict in the schedule and students can continue to do both.  

HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM

• One rotating instrumental class per week (during school hours)

• Orchestra rehearsals meet every day during the school day as a class period (not a pull-out class)

• Students are encouraged to continue to participate in both orchestra and chorus.  

Mrs. Fawess

West Islip Music Department

893-3200 x 2134

l.fawess@wi.k12.ny.us

Follow our orchestras on Instagram and Twitter: @WestIslipOrch

Extra Help

Udall Rd. MS - 2025-2026 schedule TBD

Oquenock - 2025-2026 schedule TBD