Course Overview

  • Students begin or continue to develop skills in the areas of music performance, instrumentation technique, music history and theory. Materials are presented at a progressive learning level depending on ensemble grade and skill level.

    Skills include but are not limited to: reading music notation, developing music vocabulary, iconic names in music history, listening to and playing a variety of musical genres, appropriate performance and audience etiquette.

Instruments

  • Ensemble Instrumentation
    Violin, viola, cello, bass

    Instrument Loaning / Rental
    We are able to provide a modest selection of instrument loaners at no charge to families. If there is an instrument we are not able to provide, we will be happy to help coordinate a rental with Needham Music and Johnson Strings. They provide top-quality rentals at very affordable rates (needhammusic.com) (johnsonstring.com).

Course Grading

  • Assessment in Orchestra is based on a combination of:

    • Attendance at weekly sectional lessons and ensemble rehearsals
    • Positive conduct and effort are shown during music learning periods
    • As applicable: Submission of practice charts, assigned material recording, etc
    • Attendance at all required seasonal performances

Orchestra Schedule

  • Students meet twice a week during their Flex period. Day One is for instrumental sectional lessons. Day Two is for a one-hour ensemble rehearsal. Music activities are held during Flex time to ensure there is no disruption to or removal from other class work periods.

Performance Opportunities 

  • Specific dates can be found on the District Calendar and full details will be provided by Directors.

    We are proud to provide an ambitious variety of enriching performance opportunities for our ensembles. Please note that while some performances are optional, participation at some are required as part of course enrollment.

    Fall & Spring Recitals: Optional performances provide an opportunity for students to perform any piece they wish on any instrument they wish as a solo or as part of a small chamber group 

    Holiday Invitation Nights: Optional Holiday-themed community performance in downtown Market Square 

    Winter Concert: Required performance of the Nock Concert Bands, Choruses, Orchestras

    Newburyport Spring Fest: Optional performance for the community on stage behind Firehouse Arts Center

    Spring Music In the Parks Performance & Field Trip (7th/8th Grade): Students will travel to compete at a location in the Agawam, MA area, then enjoy a day at Six Flags New England. 

    Spring Waterfront Festival: Required district-wide Spring Concert performance given by Grades 1-12 Performing Arts departments.

    8th Grade Graduation: This performance provides short processional and recessional music for our 8th grade Class Day. It is optional for 6th graders, required for 7th graders, and the 8th grade ensemble will perform a featured piece during the exercises.

    Possible Additional Performances: School Assemblies (Veteran’s Day, Memorial Day, etc.)