Clark Middle School Orchestra
The Cougar Orchestra Organization is comprised of 4 orchestras, Beginner Orchestra, Philharmonic Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, and Symphonic Orchestra.
Beginner Orchestra The BEGINNER Orchestra program at CMS begins in the 6th grade with instruction in violin, viola, cello, and bass. These students learn in both a homogeneous and heterogeneous class setting – focusing solely on their particular instrument pedagogy and also developing ensemble skills. Comprised of mostly 6th graders and beginning-level players, these classes start from scratch with everything including posture & position – how to hold the instrument and bow; music literacy – how to read music; intonation and tone production – how to play in tune with the best sound. We also will learn the history behind the music we play, and much more. These classes meet daily and focus on establishing and developing basic musical and performance skills. This orchestra will have three concerts each year, plus one festival in the Spring. In order to retain the new and intricate skills learned in Beginning Orchestra, students are highly encouraged to take private lessons on their stringed instrument. Concert Orchestra (Orch C) The Concert Orchestra is composed of students with one or more years of playing experience, in grades 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. This class will work towards competency in intonation, basic rhythms, vibrato, shifting and sight reading skills. These students show commitment to their orchestra by attending all scheduled rehearsals, sectionals, and concerts throughout the year while maintaining a disciplined practice routine. This group is comprised of mostly 7th and 8th graders, admitted through audition. The main purpose is to provide extra support at the appropriate level. Philharmonic Orchestra (Orch B) The PHILHARMONIC Orchestra is composed of students with one or more years of playing experience, in grades 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. This class will work towards competency in all major two-octave scales and three-octave scales, complex rhythms, vibrato, shifting and sight reading skills. These students show commitment to their orchestra by attending all scheduled rehearsals, sectionals, and concerts throughout the year while maintaining a disciplined practice routine. This group is comprised of mostly 7th and 8th graders, admitted through audition. The main purpose is to be prepared for high school orchestra, so the expectation of practice and work ethic will be very high. Students will learn advanced techniques as well as perform increasingly difficult music as the year progresses. These members will also participate in the UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Competition in March. Philharmonic students are strongly encouraged to try out for All-Region Orchestra, and Solo & Ensemble Contest. It is also highly encouraged for all Concert students to take private lessons on their stringed instrument. Symphonic Orchestra (Orch A) The SYMPHONIC Orchestra is comprised of the most advanced string players at CMS. Students show competency in all major two and three-octave scales, complex rhythms, vibrato, shifting and sight reading ability. These students show commitment to their orchestra by attending all scheduled rehearsals, sectionals, and concerts throughout the year while maintaining a disciplined practice routine. This group is comprised of mostly 7th and 8th graders, admitted through audition. Students will be challenged with upper-level literature that will refine their musicianship skills and overall playing technique. These members will participate in the Elementary tours in December, UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Competition in March, as well as other festivals and competitions through the year. Symphonic students will be expected to try out for All-Region Orchestra, and perform at the Solo & Ensemble Contest, and attend extra musical instruction for recordings and competitions. It is also expected that all students in Symphonic take private lessons on their stringed instrument. |