WMS Orchestra Notes

O c t o b e r 2 0 0 6

Greetings from Mrs. Loy!

We are off and running at the start of our school year. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know my 25 Orchestra students at Worthington Middle. I have started a new 6^th grader from St. Mary’s that is eager to join the WMS Orchestra next year and already Krista Vogt and Gordon Moore have recruited another new student after playing their instruments in Mrs. Liapis’ class. I plan to keep us “ON THE GROW”!

At the start of our 110^th year of Orchestra in Worthington schools, we are eager to invite you to our first concert. Please join us on Tuesday, October 24^th, 2006 at 7pm in the WMS Gym. Orchestra students should arrive at 6:30pm for tuning. Concert dress will be white tops and black skirts or pants that appropriately meet with ISD 518 dress code requirements. Thank you for showing pride in our appearance and our performance!

Orchestra rehearsals occur every day during ADVISORY time. In order to meet the challenges that this schedule presents, I have asked students to arrive by 7:45am for tuning and scale warm-ups. At 8am we will stop when the bell rings for the Pledge of Allegiance and announcements. Rehearsal resumes from 8:02-8:27am when I dismiss students to their Period 1 classes already in progress. WMS staff have been informed that students should be arriving to Period 1 by 8:30am.

I have published a lesson schedule that is attached. This allows me to meet students on an individual basis for 15 minutes each week. I have ordered a method book for use during these lessons and am asking for students to purchase their copy. Please send cash or a check payable to WMS for the cost listed on the back of each music book. Turn it in to me and I will issue you a receipt. Thank you!

Students will be developing their skills through practice and performance. Assigned scales, exercises and concert pieces will be studied, rehearsed and evaluated. It is expected that students practice their chosen instrument outside of class time to make progress. A practice record can be turned in at the end of each quarter to reward the student with extra credit points. Mrs. Loy will issue a practice record soon so keep track of your practice time!

We have an exciting year ahead as we grow and learn together. With concerts, contest and a visit from the SD Symphony Chamber Orchestra planned, this year will reward us with many musical memories full of fun, excitement, challenge and growth.

I am always available to answer your questions or concerns, and to assist in fostering the musical growth of your sons and daughters. I am privileged to join you in Worthington!

Respectfully,

Melanie J. Loy

Orchestra Director

Prairie Elementary:  (507) 727-1250 ext. 5067

Worthington Middle School:  (507) 376-4174 ext. 4160

Worthington High School:  (507) 376-6121 ext. 3312

email:  melanie.loy@isd518