Wood Orchestra 

---

Mrs. Edwards

If you are a parent needing a timely response, please call the school directly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Orchestra:

How can I find out about orchestra for next year?
         This page contains answers to the most popular questions for beginners and their families.  You are also welcome to e-mail me, talk with me at school, or call.

What does the orchestra do?
            In orchestra you will learn to play your choice of the violin, viola, cello, or bass.    We play concerts, go on a yearly trip, and compete in contests both as a group and as solo performers.

Who can take orchestra?
            Any Wood student entering the 5th grade may choose to be in the orchestra.  The program continues into the 6th grade, building on what was learned in the 5th grade.  Occasionally 6th grade beginners are admitted if they have taken some private lessons on their chosen instrument, and have caught up with those who played in 5th grade.

What if I'm not in 5th grade yet?
            There are many private programs available locally to help you get started.  I would be happy to refer you to one!

When does the orchestra meet?
            The orchestra meets three times per week, alternating with p.e. in place of the regular music classes.  Students enrolled in the orchestra do not take music.

Where can I get an instrument?
            I highly recommend renting an instrument for beginning students until you are sure enough of their choice to purchase a high quality instrument.  Please do not order a cheap ($100 or so) new import- most of the time they do not last more than a few weeks.  They also arrive unassembled, so you will have to spend money to put them together.  If you prefer to purchase, please let me or another experienced string player go and look at the instrument before you spend your money!
            Local instrument rental companies are listed below.  Each provides different price ranges and levels of service.  It is worth while to call around to find the best provider for you and your family.  If you know of any companies not listed here, please let me know and I will add them to my page!
 
 

Can students play their instruments once they leave Wood?
            Yes!  Martin High School and Boles Junior High each have terrific and award winning orchestra programs.  Students can play all the way through high school, and many colleges have scholarships or work study opportunities for students interested in playing in the college orchestra.

What if I don't like the class?
            The music teachers at Wood work together to make sure that every student is in the class that is best for them.  Students are allowed to move freely between music and orchestra for the first week of school.  Once they have experienced both, we ask them to make a commitment for the first six weeks.  At the end of the first six weeks, there is another opportunity to change your class assignment.  Once that opportunity is past, we ask that the student finish out the year in their chosen class.  This eliminates the confusion of having students switching back and forth and being way behind in the curriculum of both classes.  Between 5th and 6th grade, orchestra students may return to music if they wish, and music students may study privately and join orchestra in 6th grade.