Wecome Rising Freshmen!
It’s amazing that you are already almost done with your 8th grade year. We are so excited that you have committed to orchestra for three years already and we look forward to sharing in your orchestra journey over the next four years! As you register and plan for your freshman year there are a couple of things we would like to share with you.
How does orchestra impact high school gpa?
Orchestra students are routinely in the top 10% of their class, or even in the top 10 people. Maintaining an "A" in orchestra can be easily achieved with hard work, dedication, and commitment to assignments by the students. Additionally, juniors and seniors can choose GPA Opt Out, which means orchestra will not count towards their high school GPA anymore. This way there will be no negative impact of orchestra on their GPA.
How to balance orchestra with other commitments?
Around 88% of orchestra students are enrolled in AP courses and are able to manage curricular and extra-curricular activities alongside orchestra. Orchestra can easily be integrated into the schedule of a high-schooler through short but meaningful practice sessions regularly, focus during class time, and planning concerts and other mandatory events prior. The dates for all mandatory events (concerts, dress rehearsals, UIL, etc.) are usually always published on our calendar, which we highly recommend students to check regularly.
How to fit orchestra in the 4-year schedule/course card?
Even with orchestra filled in all four years, students can still select many other courses (including APs or other career-related courses). They will still have their 4 core class slots as well as 3 elective slots. Additionally, students can take Credit-By-Exam (CBE) tests that allow them to receive high school credits by just taking a test. Completing courses via E-School also allows students to receive high-school credits and free up elective space in their schedule. Any schedule conflicts or concerns can be discussed with the directors, to ensure interested students can still participate in orchestra alongside their other preferences.
Benefits of orchestra?
Orchestra allows every individual to develop their skills and talents on a daily basis. Students have the opportunity to connect with other peers in their orchestra, make new friends, and have a sense of belonging. Orchestra is unlike any other class students will take, giving them a much needed break and different kind of exposure. Additionally, students can make a strong impression on their college applications, as many college counselors have stated the value of showing commitment to a artistic/musical ability.
what social events can orchestra students participate in?
Orchestra offers many social year-round for students to hang out with their friends and peers. Some socials we've had in the past include a back-to-school social (includes outdoor games, snacks, etc.), Halloween social, Six Flags, Ice-Skating, Medieval Times, Game/Movie nights, and much more. Each month, orchestra hosts a Breakfast Social where we offer an assortment of items including donuts, bagels, coffee, fruits, and more, so students can start their school day on a positive note.
what is the time commitment of orchestra?
Orchestra students should expect to be practicing at home on a regular basis as they complete practice videos, graded run-throughs, and other assignments. In addition, concerts (Fall, Winter, Pre-UIL, UIL, Spring) are mandatory and all students are expected to participate. The Music & Art Walk (during Fall time) is also a required event for all students to participate in. Other than practicing at home and attending the mandatory events, orchestra students shouldn't expect a heavy workload and be able to manage their other commitments.
How do grades in orchestra work?
Orchestra grades are a culmination of homework completion (practice videos), effort during class-time, playing assessments, concert attendance, and more. Students who complete their assignments with their best effort and attend all required events should expect to have an "A" in orchestra.
What Orchestra Should I expect to Place in Next Year?
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It is important to note that being in a Varsity middle-school orchestra does not translate to being in a Varsity high-school orchestra. All students re-audition in the Spring of each year. All students have a place in orchestra and each orchestra provides an environment of high-caliber performances, community, leadership, and ensemble and individual competition opportunities.
Freshmen Placements in Orchestra:
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Can I Advance Orchestras Later in my High-School Career?
Each Spring semester, students are re-evaluated to determine the correct orchestra placement for them. Students that demonstrate musical growth, improvement, and commitment to orchestra can expect to have the chance to be placed higher the next year.
37% of Sophomores Place in Camerata Orchestra
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50% of Juniors Place in Symphonic Orchestra
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35.7% of Seniors Place in Symphonic Orchestra
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Grade Level Distribution Across Orchestras
Chamber orchestra
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4.5% of Chamber Orchestra are Freshmen
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virtuosi orchestra
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26.9% of Virtuosi Orchestra are Freshmen
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philharmonic orchestra
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19.4% of Philharmonic Orchestra are Freshmen
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symphonic orchestra
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2.8% of Symphonic Orchestra are Freshmen (Symphonic Orchestra is mainly restricted to Juniors and Seniors).
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camerata orchestra
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44.4% of Camerata Orchestra are Freshmen
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concertante orchestra
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73.7% of Concertante Orchestra are Freshmen
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Orchestra for Life
Preparing for Titan Orchestra:
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Course Registration Card
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Auditions
All students are welcome in Orchestra! Auditions are to determine which ensemble your student will experience the most growth and success. Students who sign-up for orchestra will be placed in one of our five ensembles.
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4- year Orchestra Plan for High School
