Orchestras

Beginning Orchestra

Beginning Orchestra is for 6th-8th graders who have no experience on an orchestra instrument. It is a full year elective. Students are introduced to the instruments of the orchestra and will learn the basics of how to play their new instrument and reading music. Students will perform in at least two concerts on campus during the school year.

Intermediate Orchestra

The Intermediate Orchestra is open to both 7th and 8th graders who have played Violin, Viola, Cello, or Double Bass for at least 2 years (or who have director’s approval). 6th graders may enroll in this course by audition only (contact the director for details). The class is a full-year elective, and will focus on improving technique through the use of method books, large ensemble work through a wide variety of literature, and develop further musical literacy. Students will perform in at least two concerts on campus during the year, and the CMEA regional Band & Orchestra festival.

Advanced Orchestra

Advanced Orchestra is for 8th graders who have played 3-4 years on their instrument and at least one year of orchestra at Hopkins. It is a full-year elective and requires instructor’s approval for the student to enroll.  7th graders may enroll in this course by audition only (contact the director for details). The Advanced Orchestra performs at a very high level and guides students to a new level of musicianship. Students have many performance opportunities during the year.  Students will perform in two or more concerts on campus during the year. They will also travel to Anaheim, CA (Disneyland) for a soundtrack recording experience, as well as participate in the CMEA regional Band & Orchestra Festival.  Historically, Advanced Orchestra has also performed at the CMEA state festival in the spring. For the past several years, the Advanced Orchestra has been the “Best Middle School String Orchestra” in California!