What is Orchestra?
Orchestra involves the four stringed instruments:
The Violin:
Unaltered for
centuries, the violin is perhaps the most widely recognized orchestral instrument. Whether you call it a violin or a fiddle, it is
the string family’s soprano or highest voice. High pitched, beautifully
toned, the violin is often used as a lead or solo instrument, particularly in
music demanding fast passage work. Students that choose the violin are required to rent or purchase an instrument, and must bring their instrument with them to school for use in class.
The Viola:
Played under the chin
in much the same manner as the violin, the viola is slightly larger and tuned
differently than its sister instrument. A larger tone chamber endows the
viola with
it's mellow qualities and enables it to produce somber, moody tones. The alto voice of the string family, the viola adds depth and richness and is vital for string ensembles and quartets. Students that choose
the viola are required to rent or purchase an instrument, and must
bring their instrument with them to school for use in class.
The Cello:
Officially known as
the violoncello, the cello represents the tenor voice of the string section.
Tuned a full octave lower than the viola, the cello produces deep lower
registers and subdued higher tones. Unlike either the violin or the
viola, the cello is supported on the floor by an endpin while the seated player
steadies the instrument with his or her knee. Students that choose the cello must rent or purchase an instrument for use at home and concerts. However, we provide school cellos for them to use in class.
The Bass:
The string family’s
largest instrument, the string or double bass may be played with a bow or
plucked by hand in either sitting or standing positions. The bass is the
deepest voice of the string family and can function as rhythmic accompaniment
or as a solo instrument. The deep response of the bass gives foundation
and “bottom” to the orchestra. Students that choose
the bass must rent or purchase an instrument for use at home and
concerts. However, we provide school basses for them to use in class.
What levels of orchestra does Lanier offer?
Beginners: This orchestra is for students that have no previous experience on a stringed instrument. In fact, they don't have to have any musical experience at all! We teach the basics in this orchestra. At the beginning of the school year, we will demonstrate each of the four instruments. This gives your child a chance to hear the different sounds produced by each instrument. We find that most children are attracted to certain sounds, and this is a good indicator of what instrument they should choose. There are very few physical limitations for playing a stringed instrument. We've even seen very tiny girls play the bass successfully!
Concert Orchestra: This intermediate level orchestra is for students with at least one year of experience on a stringed instrument. We focus on note reading, rhythms, posture, and ensemble technique.
Philharmonic: This intermediate-advanced level orchestra is for students with more than two years of experience on a stringed instrument. We refine skills such as intonation, shifting, and vibrato. This orchestra participates in the annual UIL Competition.
Sinfonia: This advanced level orchestra requires a high level of commitment from it's members. Students are accepted into this orchestra by audition only. We focus on skills such as: two-octave scales, advanced shifting and rhythms, and difficult bowing styles. Students are expected to be able to read music proficiently. Students are required to audition for the region orchestra. There are morning sectionals before school, as well as after-school rehearsals from time to time. This orchestra also participates in the Lanier Symphony Orchestra with members of the band. This orchestra participates in the annual UIL Competition.
How do I audition?
If you have previous experience on a stringed instrument, you will be required to audition for placement in an orchestra class. Auditions take place in late May.
Be prepared to play:
1. A one-octave scale in D, G, or C Major. If you can perform a two or three octave scale, go for it!
2. A short selection from a solo (i.e. Suzuki Book).
3. You will be required to sight-read an excerpt from orchestra music (chosen by the director).