Musical Arts Orchestra

• All courses are for 1 credit through 1 semester unless otherwise noted.
• Some courses can be taken in the Fall & Spring semester. Please check with your music teacher and counselor.
• Concert/Performance attire may be required for all orchestra courses. There will be required performances that occur outside of class time for all orchestra courses. Please contact the high school orchestra director for more details.

52402X0 String Ensemble (May be repeated for credit)

Prerequisite: None or minimal middle school orchestra experience

In this course students learn the fundamentals of proper tone production and technique of a string instrument as well as developing and improving music reading skills and ensemble work. Students work to acquire a solid foundation in order to be successful at the next level. Instruction may be delivered in a multi-level class setting. Students will be required to prepare for and perform in ensembles, competitions, and all other relevant class activities. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain a string instrument, either by rental or by purchase. This course requires occasional night rehearsals. Performance attire is required. This course is aligned to the NC Essential Standards for Music at the beginning level.

52412X0 Orchestra (May be repeated for credit)

Prerequisite: Previous Orchestra experience in middle school or by audition

In this course students will be required to demonstrate musical excellence and an understanding of orchestral music and interpretation through participation in ensembles, competitions, festivals, and other class activities. Students will be exposed to intermediate string literature and will be expected to develop the corresponding skill sets needed to perform it. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain an instrument, either through purchase or rental. This class may also require the use of after school or evening rehearsals and performances. Performance attire is required. This course is aligned to the NC Essential Standards for Music at the intermediate level.

52425X0 Orchestra Honors (May be repeated for credit)

Prerequisite: Audition

In this course students will be expected to achieve and maintain high levels musicianship and playing technique and apply those skills toward learning difficult literature. Students will also develop proficiency in conducting, solo performance, listening and analytical skills, composition, and performance. This course may also require after school or evening rehearsals and performances as well as involvement in individual auditions and/or clinics. Performance attire is required. This course is aligned to the NC Essential Standards for Music at the proficient level.

52435X0 Advanced Orchestra Honors (May be repeated for credit)

Prerequisite: Audition

This course is designed to challenge students and expose them to a broad range and difficulty of orchestral literature, techniques, and musical knowledge. Students are expected to achieve and maintain very high levels of performance, musicianship, and individual technique. Students will extend their skills by applying them to composition, conducting, listening and analyzing music. Students will advocate for orchestra and represent their school at competitions, performances, festivals, clinics, and solo events. This course may also require after school or evening rehearsals and performances as well as involvement in individual auditions and/or clinics. Performance attire is required. This course is aligned to the NC Essential Standards for Music at the advanced level.