Beginners
For students who are starting out, no. We will start from the very beginning and teach you how to play your instrument and read music notation.

Experienced
For students who have prior experience, an audition may be required for placement in the ensemble best suited to your level of proficiency. Please contact the director for details.

• How to properly hold and play a string instrument (violin, viola, cello, or bass)

• How to read music notation

• How to play as an ensemble

• Music history, composers, and performers

• Different styles: classical, rock, fiddling, country western, jazz, and world music

Musical growth
Learn complex repertoire, refine your technique, and expand your musical knowledge by playing alongside other musicians.

Teamwork and collaboration
Develop essential skills in listening to others, coordinating with your section, and contributing to a unified sound.

Performance experience
Gain confidence by performing in front of audiences and overcoming stage fright.

Social connection
Build friendships with people who share your passion for music.

Discipline and focus
Develop concentration and attention to detail required for playing in an ensemble.

Artistic expression
Explore the emotional depth of music through performance.

Cultural appreciation
Engage with a diverse range of musical compositions and traditions.

Yes! In the best of ways! Research shows that participation in music programs will affect student grades for the better. Dr. Mike Moses, former Texas Commissioner of Education, states: “Current research indicates that the fine arts, especially music, influences the brain and actually stimulates spatial intelligence. Students who participate in an arts program experience important learning transfers in academic areas.”

As with anything in life, you will reap the benefits of playing an instrument in direct proportion to the time you invest and priority you make it. Here are some minimum expectations:

• Beginners - Personal practice for beginners is 15-20 minutes a day (minimum), 5 days per week.
  Intermediate - Personal practice ranges from 30-45 minutes a day (minimum), 5 days per week.
  Advanced - Personal practice ranges from 45-60 minutes (minimum) a day, 5 days per week.

• Several concerts and a few rehearsals outside of regular school hours. 

• Some high school ensembles have a weekly sectional rehearsal either before or after school.

Timber Creek High School
Students are placed in the appropriate ensemble based on their level of experience. Intermezzo and Sinfonia Orchestras meet every other day based on the Even/Odd block schedule during 4th and 5th periods. Beginning Orchestra meets daily during 8th period.

Trinity Springs Middle School

Students are placed in the appropriate ensemble based on their level of experience. Classes meet daily.

Trinity Meadows Intermediate School
There is a class for upper strings (violin, viola) and one for lower strings (cello, bass). These take place every other day based on the A/B schedule during the co-curriculum class period.

Trinity Meadows Intermediate School
Yes. While students only have only one elective choice in 6th grade, participation in other extra-curricular organizations is not only possible, it is highly encouraged! It is important to remember, however, that commitment to the orchestra program and personal practice time are necessary.

Trinity Springs Middle School / Timber Creek High School
Yes, based on how many electives for your grade level. It is important to remember, however, that commitment to the orchestra program and personal practice time are necessary.

Instrument Rental

Instruments can be rented from local vendors. Refer to the Instrument Rental/Purchase page for more information.

Supplies

Additional supplies such as method book, shoulder rest (upper strings), anchor strap (cellos), rosin, music stand, and electronic tuner are required. The total cost is ±$50. Most of these items can be purchased through the music shop where you rent your instrument or can be purchased online. Refer to the Supply List page for links to recommended items.

Orchestra Participation Fee

This fee applies to all students and is ±$100 for the year. It covers classroom equipment and supplies, clinician fees, resource materials, festival expenses, transportation, etc. It also includes an orchestra shirt which will be used for some performances and special events. This fee does not cover optional social events. Middle and high school students may have additional costs for specific activities.

In-School Private Lessons (optional, but strongly encouraged)

$24 per lesson. Mr. Schubert will connect student families to a district-approved contracted specialist. Lessons take place weekly during the orchestra class period.

Enroll in orchestra when you choose your electives for the school year.  If you have already submitted your elective choices, simply contact your school office and submit a change request and/or contact Mr. Schubert. He works closely with the counselors to coordinate schedule adjustments as needed.

Watch the "Introduction to Orchestra" video to see a demonstration of each instrument. Email Mr. Schubert with your preferred choice. Recommended rental options are on the Instrument Rental/Purchase page. It is best to set up your rental in advance so you are ready to start on Day 1 of school!

Good news! You are not expected to teach music - that's the job of the director! However, managing your child's practice at home in a positive way is essential for their success. Make it a high priority...  it should have equal weight with homework from other classes. Help your child set up a distraction-free space for practicing. Monitor your child so they stay on task - you don't have to be in the same room, but you do need to be aware of what they should be working on. Setting a timer is a good way to ensure adequate time is being given to practice. Additional tips will be provided at the start of the school year.

If you have a question that needs an immediate answer, please contact the director via email. Response time is usually within 24 hours (weekdays).

David Schubert, MMusEd

Director of Orchestras

david.schubert@kellerisd.net