Beginners

For those interested in joining orchestra (5th or 6th Graders)...here's what you'll need!
5th Graders: Scroll down for information about the program!!

What your student needs for beginning orchestra:	What does it look like?
A violin, viola, cello, or bass. Bring your student along to the store to get the correct size! *See below for a note about purchasing instruments.
Rosin (a sticky substance that makes the bow work!)*Bass players should purchase "Pop's Products" bass rosin.
Violins and Violas will need a shoulder rest
Cellos and basses will need an end-pin holder
Essential Elements 2000 for your chosen instrument
A pencil to mark your music

Explore the instruments at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Kids website:
Musical Instrument Chart
*NOTE: The Issaquah Orchestra Staff recommends renting an instrument during the beginning phase of playing an instrument. Local music stores offer quality rentals that are easier to play and therefore, will make the student confident about their playing. They also generally have package rentals (with all the above materials), rent-to-own programs and insurance. Avoid purchasing low price instruments from major chain stores/the internet, as the price usually reflects the quality, and therefore, their playability for the student. We want students to start strong and a quality instrument will be the main factor in helping them succeed. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is!

Notes for 6th grade orchestra:
Classes are held DURING the school day (we're listed in the electives portion of your middle school registration), and there's NO FEE for joining. WOOHOO!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS for FIFTH GRADE orchestra:

Questions:	Answers:
How do I register for 5th grade orchestra?	In September, the district will send home a registration letter with your students or you can access it online at: http://www.issaquah.wednet.edu/district/departments/elementary/orchestra.asp I will also be visiting many of the schools to introduce myself and the program (and to give students an opportunity to see the instruments). Parents should send the registration to the Elementary Bookkeeper at the district (do not turn it in to the secretary at your school).
What level of string playing is taught in the fifth grade orchestra? Does my student need prior experience?	This class is for beginning string students (violin, viola, cello, and bass). No prior experience is required. We will go through what the instruments are, how to hold them, and, of course, how to play them!
Classes start next week...what if I haven't turned in my registration form?	Bring it to the first class and I'll send it to the elementary bookkeeper. Classes do fill up, so it's wise to send it in early!
What if I don't have my instrument for the first class?	NO PROBLEM! Come and we'll do a meet and greet on the first day...no instrument required.
Where can I rent an instrument and get the necessary supplies?	See my Music Links page for a list of music stores in our area.
How much does it cost to participate in 5th grade orchestra?	The cost for participation is $230.00 for the whole school year. Keep in mind that this costs significantly less than private lessons for a whole year!
When do classes begin?	The first full week of October (October 6th for PLMS, October 7th for BLMS)
Where and when are the classes held?	Discovery and Sunny Hills will go to the PLMS orchestra room (C-4) from 7:30-8:00 AM on Mondays and Thursdays. Challenger, Cascade Ridge, and Endeavour will go to the BLMS band room (M-3) from 7:30-8:00 AM on Tuesdays and Fridays.
How do I get my student to and from the 5th grade orchestra classes?	In general, parents will need to bring their students to class and a bus will take students to their elementary schools when we finish. However, in October, you'll be able contact transportation to see if there is room on the middle school buses for transportation TO the middle school (425-837-6333). This is only possible once they know the capacity on the middle school buses. Parents are always welcome to pick their students up after class if they'd prefer.
What if my student is at a late start school?	They will go to the Before School Care program at their school (no additional cost). Note: Some of the elementary choral teachers run their programs on the same mornings so that students can participate in choir rather than attending Before School Care.
What happens if there is a weather delay, vacation, or school cancellation?	We are a school program, therefore, we will operate on the school calendar. If school is cancelled or activities are cancelled, orchestra will also be cancelled (see news reports/check the Issaquah SD website). If the elementary schools do not have school, there will be no orchestra.

Mrs. Mollie Ewing, Guest Teacher from Sept-Dec: Valerie Doerrfeld
PLMS: 425-837-5750 Fax: 425-837-5762
ewingm@issaquah.wednet.edu, doerrfeldv@issaquah.wednet.edu