DUPONT TYLER MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA
The Dupont Tyler Middle School Orchestra is an organization that is comprised of a Beginning Orchestra (Grade 5), Intermediate Orchestra (Grade 6), and an Advanced Orchestra (Grades 7,8). Students perform in regular concerts, in area festivals, in honors groups, and in summer camps. Each year students have been selected by audition to be part of the MTSBOA Honors orchestra. The Advanced Strings recently were selected as the top orchestra at the Music in the Parks Festival in Louisville, KY.
MUSIC
Since the dawn of mankind, music has existed as a form of non-verbal expression through sound. The Ancient Greeks considered the study of music to be the highest level of study along with calculus, astronomy, and philosophy.
OBJECTIVES OF THE INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PROGRAM
…To encourage and stimulate the mental, emotional, physical, moral, and musical growth of each member.
…To provide an opportunity to develop individual potential and to perform at the highest level of the activity.
…To foster teamwork, fellowship, and respect for others and their property.
....Music groups are not like other classes, nor are they exactly like a sports team .Instead they possess characteristics of both: (a) music classes are similar to other classes in that there are concepts and skills that must be learned through a definite curriculum, and (b) music classes are similar to sport teams in that team success depends on all individuals performing their part and relating with other team-mates in a co-operative and supportive spirit. Because negative attitudes and comments damage team spirit, they are strongly discouraged. All music students are expected to try their very best at all times, including keeping their comments constructive, positive, helpful, and considerate.
…To serve as musical ambassadors for our school and community.
… To entertain.
PHILOSOPY/RESPONSIBILITY
Playing a musical instrument and being part of the orchestra is a wonderful experience for any participant. In addition, there is conclusive evidence that playing a musical instrument significantly improves a child’s intellectual and social development. We certainly hope that all parents will support and encourage this interest. The students that participate in instrumental music are consistently some of the top students in every grade.
The Gemeinhardt Company research project found that “playing an instrument” :
(1) provides a sense of pride (8) adds to the quality of life of the student
(2) teaches responsibility (9) provides the opportunity to gain identity
(3) provides teamwork (10) “no one sits on the bench”
(4) teaches discipline (11) provides lasting friendships
(5) provides self-esteem (12) provides opportunity to learn leadership
(6) is fun (13) helps young people overcome shyness
(7) is a good group of kids (14) provides better parent child relationship
In orchestra…you gain much personally, but you also have an important function to perform for others….that is most significant. Bear in mind that everything you do is essential to your development and to the success of your orchestra. It is not possible to have a good orchestra without the full cooperation of all its members at all times. In a regular class, if your work is not good you hurt only yourself, but in the orchestra you hurt the whole group. Your obligations are demanding…. But the rewards are many. Remember: Success is measured by your degree of effort. You can only be compared to your potential; therefore, true winners are those who give the highest degree of effort. As a dedicated orchestra member, something happens to you so that the organization becomes Your orchestra and you are intensely proud of it!!
PERFORMANCES
There will be several concerts per year in addition to the MTSBOA (Middle Tennessee Band Orchestra Association) activities and ASTA (American String Teachers) MTSBOA activities include solo and ensemble contest as well.
|
