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Hello Outstanding Beginning and Advanced Orchestra Students!
I wanted to provide you with important information:
Please click to the left for your specific grade level play along videos and documents.
It is important to continue to practice your instrument and record your practice. We still have a concert to prepare for in May!!!
- I realize that tuning your instrument may be an issue. I have provided a worksheet under your grade level page that explains how to use the fine tuners on your instrument using a tuning app. Please remember that you should NOT turn the PEGS (at the top of your instrument). I would recommend only trying to tune if really necessary! Don’t try until you know the strings really don’t sound correct. You can also just “air-bow” practice- I know that it stinks, but it is better than not doing anything- you will still be practicing the correct fingers and counting. There is a YouTube video at the bottom of the paper that is also basic and may help. You can also go to your rental company to be tuned if the strings are very loose.
- Under your grade level, there are some activities that I would like you to take a look at. It is most important that you play your instrument, but you may really enjoy some of the activities! Especially if you check out the improvisation worksheet.
Please email me any time with questions! My email is lregan@acsdny.org. I am also happy to share my personal phone number in special cases if necessary- please email me to let me know.
above:correct bow thumb placement
Performing on a string instrument is a wonderful, valuable, life changing experience for your child! I am excited to work with your children and I hope to help guide each one to successful music making!In the 3rd grade, your child will attend an assembly in which all of the orchestra and band instruments will be demonstrated to help them in their selection process. Upon completion of the assembly a choice sheet will be sent home to select their top three instrument choices. The school orchestra and band teacher will then interview each child to help determine what instrument will be the best fit for your child. In 4th grade students are expected to practice each day to build the necessary basic skills to progress on their instrument. They will attend one 30 minute lesson per week with several peers of the same instrument. They will also participate in the orchestra rehearsal with all the instruments (violin, viola, cello, and bass) performing together. In the 5th grade students will begin to practice more difficult literature that will enhance their basic skills and broaden their technical abilities. There will also be a larger focus on the skills necessary for playing in an ensemble.Please feel free to contact me with any questions that you may have!
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