Middle School Curriculum Posts

Grade 7 and 8 Cadet Orchestra The Cadet Orchestra provides instruction in the continuing development of musicianship for Grade 7 and 8 students with previous experience on an orchestral string instrument. Emphasis is given to nurturing a lifelong appreciation of music performance through the development of musical independence and expression, ensemble citizenship and teamwork, technical skills, and music literacy in a 1:1 laptop environment. Orchestra music is chosen to reflect a variety of styles and to provide an appropriate challenge for intermediate players. The students develop increasing awareness of orchestra instrumentation and are given opportunities to develop versatility on an alternate instrument such as viola or bass. The class is divided into upper (violins) and lower (viola, cello, and bass) sections that rehearse separately but perform together. The Cadet Orchestra performs in the end of Semester concerts and the Lunar String Festival.

Grade 7 and 8 Concert Orchestra The Concert Orchestra provides instruction in a variety of musical styles for advanced string students in Grades 7 and 8. Emphasis is placed on the musicianship and technical skills required for higher level solo and orchestral repertoire performance in addition to the development of a lifelong appreciation of music. Students are given opportunities to develop versatility on an alternate instrument such as viola or bass. In addition to performance the class provides opportunities for critical listening and uses technology to develop music theory skills that will enhance performance. The class is divided into upper (violins) and lower (viola, cello, and bass) sections that rehearse separately but perform together. The Concert Orchestra performs at the end of Semester concerts and in the Lunar String Festival.