Chamber Orchestra H
| Department | Other |
|---|---|
| Credit type | Weighted |
| Teacher(s) | Mrs. Lewis, Mrs. Ou-Ponticelli |
Chamber Orchestra Honors is an upper-level, audition-only course for advanced string players in Gunn's orchestra program. This course is open to 10th-12th graders and can be repeated. Taking this course also makes one eligible for CTE credit senior year in addition to giving one 10 units of VAPA credit per year. This class usually meets 1st period and often goes on tour to play in music festivals. Coaches are hired by the music department to coach ensemble members in small groups.
Course Catalog Description
Chamber Orchestra is an upper-level course open by audition to all students who have played in the Gunn String Orchestra for at least one year. Auditions will be held in the Spring and will include scales, excerpts, and sight- reading. This course will focus on continued development of technical skills, tone production, tuning, rhythmic maturity, posture, bowing/articulation and ensemble rehearsal etiquette in a full ensemble setting. The study of music theory will be embedded into the fabric of the warm-up and concert literature. Once accepted to the class students will work with directors on advanced string orchestra and chamber orchestra literature. The course is designed for students who have at least five years of playing experience on their instrument and who also work well in a fast-paced musical environment. Students are expected to practice all materials outside of the class and be able to work well in small groups. Leadership and initiative are also expected as well as dedication to the artistic process and the musicians and directors that are working with the ensemble. There are also opportunities for individuals to audition for Gunn’s Symphony Orchestra H, as well as state-wide honor ensembles like the CODA Honor Orchestras and the All-State Honor Orchestras. This ensemble also may also have the opportunity to travel for festivals and competitions and because of the balance of the ensemble students must be able to commit to travel. Financial aid available.
- Prerequisite: Successful completion of one (1) year in Gunn Orchestra, previous string instrument and orchestral experience
- Homework Expectations**: 120 minutes per week of instrument practice and assignment completion on orchestra materials. This is in addition to outside instrument practice/private lessons if applicable.
Should I take this course?
This course is very similar to String Orchestra in terms of how it is structured, but be prepared for large amounts of progress checks on your playing. Nevertheless, the teachers in the class and the orchestra community are very supportive and are willing to help you with your playing or life in general. Note that getting into this course is difficult due to the highly competitive audition process, so don't be disheartened if you don't clear the audition.