Orchestra

Prerequisite: Prior knowledge and experience on your instrument required. No audition required.

Concert Orchestra is the continuing level of orchestra from what students experience in middle school. This is a performance class focused on developing good tone production, reading music, finger patterns, bowing techniques, basic musicianship and performance skills. Students will build upon concepts and techniques that they have previously learned, including an introduction to new bowing techniques, rhythmic patterns, positions, shifting, key signatures and music vocabulary. Repertoire includes both classical and contemporary genres. Instrumentation includes: violins, violas, cellos, and basses. Students will be required to attend performances and rehearsals outside of class as well as practice daily at home. This course may be repeated for credit.

For questions regarding auditions, enrollment and/or placement, please contact Mrs. Vargas at K.M.Vargas@maranausd.org.

Prerequisite: Audition required.

String Ensemble is the distinguished level of orchestra at MVHS. Students in this orchestra have proven their dedication and ability to contribute to the success of the orchestra. This is a performance class focused on developing good tone production, reading music, finger patterns, bowing techniques, advanced musicianship and performance skills in a small ensemble setting. Repertoire includes a wide variety of rigorous classical and contemporary genres that challenge student’s musicality and technicality. Students must be able to play in advanced positions (5+ for violins & viola, 4th position for cello & bass) and play 3 octave scales and arpeggios, and demonstrate advanced concepts of bowing styles, rhythm, and left-hand techniques. Instrumentation includes: violins, violas, cellos, and basses. Students will be required to attend performances and rehearsals outside of class as well as practice daily at home. This course may be repeated for credit.

For questions regarding auditions, enrollment and/or placement, please contact Mrs. Vargas at K.M.Vargas@maranausd.org.

Prerequisite: Audition required.

Symphonic orchestra is the intermediate level orchestra at MVHS. This orchestra focuses on performing with a mature sound by refining concepts and techniques learned in Concert Orchestra. This is a performance class focused on developing good tone production, reading music, finger patterns, bowing techniques, intermediate musicianship and performance skills. Repertoire includes both classical and contemporary genres. Students must be able to play 2 octaves scales and play in advanced playing positions (at least 3rd position). Instrumentation includes: violins, violas, cellos and basses. Students will be required to attend performances and rehearsals outside of class as well as practice daily at home. This course may be repeated for credit.

For questions regarding auditions, enrollment and/or placement, please contact Mrs. Vargas at K.M.Vargas@maranausd.org.