South Kitsap School District #402
Elementary BeginningOrchestra Letter
September 1, 2016
Dear Beginning Orchestra Parent,
Elementary string orchestras are now forming throughout South Kitsap School District for 5th and 6th grade students. Your child indicated an interest in joining the beginning orchestra.
The weekly beginningorchestra schedule this year is as follows:
Manchester, Mullenix Ridge, Olalla, and South Colby will have classes at John Sedgwick Junior High from 7:55am-8:35am on Tuesday and Friday mornings. Orchestra students can ride the morning junior high buses (check the junior high morning bus schedule for times and stops) or have parent transportation. Students will be transported by school bus back to their elementary schools after class.
E.P.O., Hidden Creek, and Orchard Heights will have classes at Marcus Whitman Junior High from 7:55am-8:35am on Monday and Thursday mornings. Band students can ride the morning junior high buses (check the junior high morning bus schedule for times and stops) or have parent transportation. Students will be transported by school bus back to their elementary schools after class.
The beginning and advanced schedule will begin the week of September 26th.
On Wednesday, September 21st, and Thursday, September 22nd, we will host INSTRUMENTAL RENTAL NIGHTS from 4:30pm to 7:00pm next to the Performing Arts Center in the commons area at South Kitsap High School. Many of the area music stores and vendors will be there to help you. This will be a time you can rent and/or purchase an instrument and additional supplies your child will need. On Thursday, September 22nd, there will be a parent information meeting at the high school starting at 6:00pm. This informational meeting will be in Stage 2 just off the commons.
More information will be given to students during the first two full weeks of school. The band and orchestra teachers will be going to the elementary schools to talk to all the 5th and 6th grade students.
*If your child has not chosen an instrument, they are welcome to attend without an instrument for the first week.
Our Best,
Ms. BergmanMrs. BinningtonMr. DrozMr. Cooper
ABOUT THE ELEMENTARY ORCHESTRA PROGRAM
To further aid you, below is an outline of equipment needed for orchestra class and the usual opinions for acquiring them.
INSTRUMENT CHOICES:
*Violin*Viola*Cello*String Bass
After deciding on what instrument your child should play, the next step is how best to acquire it. Two standard options are usually given at most music stores.
RENTAL-PURCHASE: Usually the most flexible method of securing an instrument is renting, with money applied toward the purchase price. Some music stores offer loaner instruments, a music stand to use at home, and insurance. Check your rental policy for these items.
PURCHASE:Recommended for those students with one year of experience or more. It is the most economical step for those planning to continue playing their instrument. Some real “deals” can be made on used instruments, especially at this time of year.
METHOD BOOK:Each student is expected to purchase their own method book. The following method book will be used in class:
Essential Elements for Strings Book 1, Hall Leonard Corp.
Please note that the bookis to be purchased now. They will be used in their second year of orchestra.
INSTRUMENT ACCESSORIES:Necessary supplies are needed to play the instruments and to keep them in good working condition. Please be sure to purchase the following items for your instrument.
VIOLIN: RosinVIOLA:RosinCello:RosinString Bass:Bass Rosin
Soft clothSoft clothSoft ClothSoft Cloth
Extra E stringShoulder RestEnd Pin Rock StopEnd Pin Rock Stop
Shoulder RestPencilsPencilsPencils
Pencils
* Each student should also have a folding music stand for home practicing.
We recommend you now discuss the possibility of playing a string instrument with your child. With your help, we can provide a rich and fulfilling musical experience that can last a lifetime. We are looking forward to seeing you at the meeting.
South Kitsap School District Elementary Orchestra Sign-up Form
To register your child for Elementary Beginning Orchestra, please fill out this form and return it to your child’s classroom teacher, orchestra director, school music teacher, or school office.
Student’s Name______School Attending ______
Grade Level for 2016-17 ______Classroom Teacher ______
Parent’s Name(s)______
Mailing Address______
City______Zip Code______
Home Telephone______E-mail Address______
My child will play (circle one):ViolinViolaCelloString Bass
I will obtain this instrument at my earliest convenience as I understand orchestra classes are to begin September 26th. I understand that the school district does not rent instruments, but has string instruments to use at a nominal cost if you are unable to rent an instrument. Instrument rental must be done through an area music store.
______
Parent/Guardian Signature(s)
Note to orchestradirector: