Join Orchestra
Orchestra offers students a fun, structured way to learn music, develop discipline, and experience meaningful
opportunities both in and beyond the classroom.
Why Join Orchestra?
An orchestra is a group of musicians that performs music together. Students in the Creekside Intermediate orchestra program not only learn how to play an instrument but also make lasting friendships and experience life-changing opportunities. Everyone starts off in our 6th-grade beginner class, where they learn the basics of their instrument, music theory, and how to play together in a group. No music experience is necessary!
The 7th- and 8th-grade orchestras offer even more musical opportunities, such as performing concerts, competing in group and individual competitions, and going on exciting trips. Graduating 8th-grade students can continue their orchestral studies in the Clear Springs High School Charger orchestra program next door!
If you are a 5th-grader interested in joining orchestra, make sure you put orchestra as your first elective choice on your choice sheet for 6th-grade.
Frequently Asked Questions
My student does many after school activities (sports, clubs, tutoring, etc.) and I’m not sure how orchestra will fit into their busy schedule.
Students can be in both orchestra and after-school activities. Mr. Ramsey is constantly working with coaches, teachers, and parent schedules to ensure that students are able to participate in both and never have to choose between two activities they love. At the beginning of the year, students receive a calendar of important dates. Please email us ahead of time if your child has any scheduling conflicts.
Does my student need prior knowledge or experience to join orchestra?
Students do not need any prior musical experience. We will start them from the very beginning!
If my student already has experience on the instrument he/she wants to play, do they have to be in the beginning orchestra? It is possible to audition for one of the advanced orchestras. Please email Mr. Ramsey for information about auditioning for one of these groups.
Are there before/after-school rehearsals for beginners?
We rarely require beginners to come before or stay after school for rehearsals or required events. Leading up to a performance, there may be a few after-school rehearsals. The rehearsals will be clearly addressed and marked in the orchestra calendar.
How much practice time is required for beginners?
In order to succeed in orchestra, beginners are expected to practice 15-30 minutes every day. Students will be given practice assignments and will be taught practice strategies they can use during their practice sessions. It is recommended that students set aside a specific time each day for practice (i.e. 5-5:30pm).
Meet the Instruments
The Violin
Personality: If you love working with others and don’t mind occasionally being the star of the show, then the violin is the choice for you!
About the instrument: The violin is the smallest of the string family and produces the highest sounds. It is played by resting the instrument between your jaw and shoulder. They often get the melody but also supply harmony. Violinists bring their instruments to class every day.
The Viola
Personality: If you are a team player who loves having the melody and providing harmonies, then you may be a violist!
About the instrument: The viola is slightly bigger than the violin and is played by resting the instrument between your jaw and shoulder. As the middle child of the string family, violists have a unique experience where the high melodies of the violins and rumblings of the bass swirl around them. Violists bring their instruments to class every day.
The Cello
Personality: Cellists love to express themselves, so it only feels natural to play an instrument that can take on many roles and produce a variety of sounds.
About the instrument: While the cello looks like a violin or viola, it is much larger (over 4 feet long) and can play a large range of notes, from warm low notes to bright high notes. The cello is played sitting and is positioned between the player’s legs. Cellists have a cello they practice on at home and use a school cello when at school.
The Bass
Personality: If you’re cool and looking for an exciting experience, then try playing the bass!
About the instrument: The bass is the giant of the string family (over 6 feet long) and plays the lowest notes. You will feel the low vibrations while playing this beast. Don’t let the violins fool you; the bass is the foundation of the orchestra and essential to the overall sound of the ensemble. Bassists have a bass they practice on at home and use a school bass when at school. The bass won’t fit in a normal-sized car, so make sure you have a vehicle large enough to transport this instrument!
Mr. Liam Ramsey-White
For any questions or concerns (especially financial concerns), please email Mr. Ramsey
Director of Orchestras
Email: lramsey-white@ccisd.net
Lisle Violins
Instrument Rentals
Phone: 281.487.7303
www.violins.com