Elementary Strings

Elementary Orchestra Registration for the 2013-2014 school year is now OPEN! Please click the link in the sidebar and you will receive more information at the end of the summer.  Thank you!!         Come be a part of the Plateau Region Elementary Orchestras!   You’ll learn how to play an instrument from the string family of instruments, how to read music, and how to play on your own as well as with a group of other students. You’ll also have the opportunity to perform and show off your talents throughout the year!  Be a part of something cool and fun, make new friends, and build a new and unique talent with orchestra this year!   All classes are held at Eastlake High School from 7:35-8:25 a.m. in Room B166 or on the Stage.   Visit our new FAQ page to find out more!!     The String Orchestra Instruments   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 highest voice. High pitched, beautifully toned, the violin is often used as a lead or solo instrument, particularly in music demanding fast passage work.   Viola—Played under the chin much in the same manner as the violin, the viola is slightly larger and tuned differently. A larger tone chamber endows the viola with its mellow qualities and enables it to produce somber, moody tones.    Cello—Officially known as the violoncello, the cello produces deep lower registers and subdued higher tones. Unlike the violin or the viola, the cello is supported on the floor by an endpin while the seated performer steadies the instrument with his or her knees.   String Bass—The string family’s largest instrument, the string or double bass may be played with the bow or plucked by hand. The bass is the deepest voice of the string family and can function as a rhythmic accompaniment or as a solo instrument. The deep response of the bass gives foundation and “bottom” to the orchestra.      Beginning Orchestra - No experience necessary!     Schedule:    Violins meet MONDAYS and Fridays.                      Violas/Cellos/Basses meet WEDNESDAYS and Fridays.   Supplies:     Instrument                      Essential Elements 2000 for Strings, Book 1                      Rosin                      Soft cloth for cleaning instrument                      Rock stop/endpin holder for cellos/basses   Concert Attire:    Plateau Elementary Orchestra T-shirt and Jeans       Intermediate Orchestra - One or more years of experience.   Schedule:    All intermediates meet TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS.   Supplies:    Black, 3-ring binder                     Essential Elements 2000 for Strings, Book 2                     Pencil - ALWAYS keep one in your case                      Rosin                     Soft cloth for cleaning instrument                     Shoulder rest for violins/violas (no more foam)                     Rock stop/endpin holder for cellos/basses   Concert Attire:   Plateau Elementary Orchestra T-shirt and dressy black on bottom.     Any further questions?  Contact Mrs. Valerie Harris at vharris@lwsd.org or Mrs. Linda Vogt at lvogt@lwsd.org.                             Concert attire for both elementary groups is: Dressy black pants or long skirt (if a shorter skirt is worn, leggings must be worn underneath - we are on a raised stage) and our Plateau Orchestras t-shirt!!!     IMPORTANT DATES    Monday, December 10, 2012 All Beginning Orchestra Students   Wednesday, December 12, 2012 All Beginning Orchestra Students   Thursday, December 13, 2012 Concert Day!! 6:30 p.m. - EHS Performing Arts Center Students need to arrive at 6:00 pm in the music rooms Pizza/drinks are available for a small fee in the commons starting at 5:30pm. All proceeds go to the EHS Music Boosters. The Elementary Band Concert will be held after our concert ends.   Friday, December 14, 2012 No Elementary Orchestra Classes