• Beginning Orchestra

    Available for Students Entering Grades 3, 4 & 5 

    fest strings  

    Over 1700 students participate in our award-winning third through twelfth grade program. In each grade, the orchestra performs a minimum of two concerts a year. Students in grades nine through twelve can audition to perform in our chamber orchestra programs. Players in grades six through twelve may participate in the North Allegheny Fiddlers. High School students participate in Golden Strolling Strings. Each year there is a “Beginner String Festival,” including third grade orchestra students, middle school orchestra students and the Golden Strolling Strings.
     
    2019 Beginner String Festival Video - see what your 2nd grader could be playing by next spring!

    Elementary School - Beginning Orchestra lessons and ensembles are offered in grades 3-5, scheduled weekly, as pull-out classes. Instruments offered include violin, viola, cello & bass. In the small group setting, students focus on numerous concepts and skills. They learn to play their instrument with proper hand position, bowing styles, tone quality, aural skills, intonation, instrument technique, music reading, listening skills, ensemble playing and teamwork. Within this curriculum, students can expect to perform a varied repertoire of music. Students will also learn appropriate rehearsal and concert etiquette.

     

    Secondary Schools - Students who enroll in middle school orchestra have prior experience on their string instrument. The class is a co-curricular performance class with students grouped according to grade level, in a graded, scheduled class which meets every other day. In the small group setting, students focus on many concepts, skills and information learned in elementary orchestra. Within this curriculum, students can expect to perform a varied repertoire of music. Students will also learn appropriate rehearsal and concert etiquette. In high school, students may enroll in elective courses such as String Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, and Honors Chamber Orchestra. Some of these courses are selected by audition. Students also participate in the co-curricular Golden Strolling Strings.

     Please visit the Elementary Band & Orchestra FAQ page for information about renting an instrument, scheduling of classes and to contact one of North Allegheny's Elementary Band or Orchestra teachers.