CLICK HERE to access and download the Austin High School Orchestra Handbook, which includes the Orchestra membership form, contact information form, and parent volunteer form.
Chamber Orchestra is an audition-based ensemble. The most advanced players from the Austin High Orchestra program are in this group, with approximately ninety percent involved in private instruction. These students meet the performance and rehearsal standards as established by the director. Emphasis will be on the development of left hand dexterity, major and minor three octave scales and arpeggios, advanced bowing techniques, upper positions, vibrato, performance of orchestral literature in combination with wind and percussion players, small ensemble playing, and opportunities for solo performance in front of an audience. In addition, the Chamber Orchestra students are required to prepare the audition material for the All-Region Orchestra and participate in the UIL Solo & Ensemble Contest. The Chamber Orchestra rehearses every other day during regular school hours and before school hours (8:00 - 8:50 a.m.) one time each week. Additional rehearsals are called on an as needed basis. The Chamber Orchestra joins with wind and percussion players from the Austin High School Band each spring semester to form a full orchestra that participates in the UIL Concert & Sightreading Contest. This group enjoys an outstanding reputation for excellence throughout the state. Out-of-school rehearsals and performances are required in addition to regular attendance at sectional rehearsals.
The main goal of this class is to develop advanced skills needed to perform on a stringed instrument. The focus will be advanced technical growth on a specific stringed instrument through listening, observation, and hands-on experience. Students will be involved in a variety of activities that will extend their skills. Public performances of repertoire will be held a minimum of three times during the semester. Additional opportunities for solo and ensemble participation will be given.
Students will:
In order to receive honors credit, juniors and seniors must complete the following:
Music as assigned by instructor.
Instrument, three-ring black binder, shoulder rest or rock stop, extra strings, rosin, lock for violin and viola players, pencil, and Smart Music membership.
Students will be expected to be on time and prepared for class with all necessary materials. Attendance is of vital importance as much of the work is done in class. Students will be allowed to make up work for excused absences by recording assignments using Smartmusic.com. Contact the teacher upon return to school for information on assignments. If a student engages in academic dishonesty as outlined in the Stephen F. Austin High School student handbook, a zero will be issued for that assignment. Due to the nature of the course, performances may not be made up. However, absences may be excused if the instructor is informed in writing prior to the performance. If illness is the reason for the absence, a note from the parent/guardian must be provided upon return to school.
Practicing is necessary in learning and maintaining skills on the instrument. Therefore, conscientious practice is required of all students. The instructor will be able to monitor practice at home using Smart Music.
From the moment a student becomes a member of the Austin High Orchestra Program, he/she must meet the following obligations:
Information about orchestra socials, fundraisers, grading system, sectionals, combined rehearsals, class rules, expenditures, instrument care, uniform, lockers, private lessons, other performance opportunities, student accounts. and parental support is in the handbook, which is posted in this section of the AHSO website. If you need a hardcopy of the handbook, please contact the instructor.