Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate?
Students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade can participate in the orchestra program. They can choose to play the violin, viola, cello, or bass. The Beginning Orchestra is comprised of 3rd graders; the Advanced Orchestra is comprised of 4th and 5th graders. Most students begin learning a string instrument in 3rdgrade, but they may choose to begin an instrument in 4th or 5th grade, progressing to the Advanced Orchestra when ready.
How much should you practice?
Students should practice AT LEAST 15-20 minutes, 5 times a week. Please remember that practicing is HOMEWORK for this class and should be treated as such. Click on Practice Tips for more information.
How much time do students spend in orchestra?
Students meet for one 30 minute small group lesson and one 30 minute large group rehearsal as required by the Howard County Instrumental Music Curriculum. Lesson times rotate so that students are not pulled from the same class each week. All missed work needs to be made up, so students need to be responsible and conscientious.
Should students take private lessons?
Private lessons are ALWAYS recommended. Sometimes students are struggling and need extra help, and sometimes students are excelling and could use an extra challenge to meet their potentials; either way, private lessons are the single best thing that a student can do to better their playing abilities. Find a list of private teachers by clicking on Links.
What should I do if my child talks about quitting?
Please call (410) 880-5830 or email [email protected] so we can discuss the challenges your child may be facing. In most cases, students are feeling frustrated and are not practicing at home. With a little help, they usually feel more successful and enjoy orchestra more.
Students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade can participate in the orchestra program. They can choose to play the violin, viola, cello, or bass. The Beginning Orchestra is comprised of 3rd graders; the Advanced Orchestra is comprised of 4th and 5th graders. Most students begin learning a string instrument in 3rdgrade, but they may choose to begin an instrument in 4th or 5th grade, progressing to the Advanced Orchestra when ready.
How much should you practice?
Students should practice AT LEAST 15-20 minutes, 5 times a week. Please remember that practicing is HOMEWORK for this class and should be treated as such. Click on Practice Tips for more information.
How much time do students spend in orchestra?
Students meet for one 30 minute small group lesson and one 30 minute large group rehearsal as required by the Howard County Instrumental Music Curriculum. Lesson times rotate so that students are not pulled from the same class each week. All missed work needs to be made up, so students need to be responsible and conscientious.
Should students take private lessons?
Private lessons are ALWAYS recommended. Sometimes students are struggling and need extra help, and sometimes students are excelling and could use an extra challenge to meet their potentials; either way, private lessons are the single best thing that a student can do to better their playing abilities. Find a list of private teachers by clicking on Links.
What should I do if my child talks about quitting?
Please call (410) 880-5830 or email [email protected] so we can discuss the challenges your child may be facing. In most cases, students are feeling frustrated and are not practicing at home. With a little help, they usually feel more successful and enjoy orchestra more.