Orchestra
Room A116
Orchestra is an inclusive ensemble for anyone who who wants to play a stringed instrument. These include violin, viola, cell, and bass. Although some students have been playing for years, motivated beginners are also welcome. Students learn proper playing technique, including posture, hand position, fingering and bowing. Students also learn to read music, including notated rhythm and pitch. Furthermore, students will learn appropriate performance etiquette and stage presence. Repertoire may include selections and arrangements from classical to contemporary and popular music.
Resources
Here you will find some of the resources that will be used during class. They will be explained in further detail.
Class Description, Behavioral Expectations, and Procedures
Performances
There will be numerous performances throughout the year. These include "Meet the Arts" in October, the Winter Concert in December, the preregistration assembly in December, the Zone Showcase in the Spring, and the Spring Concert in May. Additionally, there may be other performances added to the schedule as opportunities arise. These may include festivals or other off-campus events.
Performances are mandatory for all instrumentalists. Students may be excused from performances only in emergencies. Lack of transportation is not considered an emergency, and will not be excused-- arrangements must be made in advance.
Performances are mandatory for all instrumentalists. Students may be excused from performances only in emergencies. Lack of transportation is not considered an emergency, and will not be excused-- arrangements must be made in advance.
Musicianship Practice:
My guide to using musictheory.net, including instructions for adjusting settings and sending reports
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Musictheory.net is an online site in which you may practice note identification, keyboard identification, etc. There may be assignments required using this website. This will be described in class.
Festivals
Depending on availability, the orchestra may be able to participate in one or more festivals. These are events in which orchestras from other schools are invited by a host, such as Delta College, to perform and receive feedback from an expert in instrumental music. Festivals are fun and exciting events, but require some fundraising to cover the costs of entry and transportation. Fundraising is done by the orchestra club.
Orchestra Club
All students in the orchestra class are voting members of the orchestra club. The club's role is primarily to raise funds for participation in festivals and other activities. Students elect officers, including president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary. Funds raised by the club may be used however the group wishes, pending approval from the Associated Student Body (ASB). Fundraisers require the participation of all members of the orchestra to be successful.
The Orchestra Club officers and constitution may be viewed here:
The Orchestra Club officers and constitution may be viewed here:
President: Sabrina
Vice President: Jaime Secretary: Tomas Treasurer: Karla |
Repertoire
All repertoire (song selection) is determined by Mr. Kirk. If you have ideas, I am open to suggestions. However, you should check on its availability in an appropriate arrangement first. This means that it is written for string orchestra. I will only consider repertoire that has been arranged appropriately. Such arrangements may be found on the following websites:
Mr. Kirk makes all repertoire decisions based on several criteria, including musical quality, technical considerations, historical value, and positive message. Submit your pick to the club president to present to Mr. Kirk.