Academics: Music > Strings/Orchestra

Strings
The strings program is open to students in grades 3-5 who have an interest in starting to learn an orchestral string instrument (violin, viola, cello, or bass). Students receive one 30-minute small group lesson per week, normally with other students playing the same instrument. Throughout the year students learn proper instrument and bowing techniques, and students also learn how to read music. Students participate in the Spring Concert in May to demonstrate their newly learned skills.

Orchestra
The orchestra program is open to students in grades 3-5 who have experience playing an orchestra string instrument (violin, viola, cello, or bass). To qualify for orchestra, students must have participated in the strings program or have received private lessons on their instrument for at least a year (at the discretion of the school director). Students receive one 30-minute small group lesson per week and one 40-minute orchestra lesson with all of the orchestra members in the school. Throughout the year students learn advancing technical and musical techniques, as well as develop skills for group playing and performance. Students participate in both the Winter and Spring Concerts. Exceptional 5th grade students are also asked to audition for and participate in the SASD 5th Grade Honors Orchestra, which performs as part of the SASD Orchestra Festival in May.

Prerequisite: Previous participation in the strings program or at least one year of private lessons