Varsity Strings A, B, C, D
Four Terms Grades 9, 10 Elective
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the orchestra curriculum at the middle school level, or by audition, or by orchestra director’s approval.
Varsity Strings is open to all students in GRADES 9 & 10 who can show proficiency as players of their chosen traditional stringed instrument (violin, viola, cello, and double bass). The orchestra rehearses daily with individual lessons and group sectionals required as part of the course. Standard orchestral repertoire of intermediate difficulty from all musical periods will be studied. Performance of 2 and 3 octave major and minor scales, intonation, shifting, vibrato, bowing techniques, sight reading and refinement of ensemble playing will be part of the experience. Listening to our own performances and providing verbal and written critiques will be encouraged. Opportunities to hear live and recorded professional performances will be sought. The orchestra will participate in public performances scheduled at school and in the community. Performances take place outside the school day, and they are part of the graded requirements for the class. Opportunities to perform for contests, festivals and auditions for the Minnesota All-State Orchestra will be announced.
Students signing up for Varsity Strings should register for BOTH Varsity Strings A&B AND Varsity Strings C&D.
Varsity Choir / Varsity Strings A, B, C, D
Four terms Grades 9, 10, Elective
The Varsity Choir/Varsity Strings option allows students to participate in BOTH Varsity Choir and Varsity Strings during the same class period. Students selecting this option will rotate between the two ensembles every other day. Students selecting this option will be responsible for meeting the performance and curriculum requirements of both ensembles while splitting their time between the two rehearsals. As a result, some independent practice will be required.
Students signing up for Varsity Choir/Varsity Strings should register for BOTH Varsity Choir/Varsity Strings A&B AND Varsity Choir/Varsity Strings C&D.